Acne Management

Antibiotics & Isotretinoin

1. General Information and Description

Acne is a common inflammatory skin condition caused by a combination of excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. It can present as blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, or cystic acne, and may affect the face, chest, and back.

Medical acne management focuses on reducing inflammation, controlling acne-causing bacteria, and regulating oil production. Depending on acne severity and skin condition, treatment plans may include oral antibiotics or isotretinoin, prescribed and monitored by a doctor for safe and effective results.

2. How It Works

Oral Antibiotics
Antibiotics work by reducing Cutibacterium acnes bacteria and calming skin inflammation. This helps decrease redness, swelling, and the frequency of breakouts, especially in moderate inflammatory acne. Antibiotics are typically used for a limited duration and often combined with topical treatments to prevent resistance.

Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin is a vitamin A–derived medication used for severe, persistent, or treatment-resistant acne. It targets all major causes of acne by significantly reducing oil (sebum) production, preventing clogged pores, decreasing bacteria, and controlling inflammation. This comprehensive action allows for long-term acne control and reduced risk of scarring.

3. What to Expect & When Results Appear

With oral antibiotics, improvement is usually seen within 4–8 weeks, with reduced redness and fewer inflamed breakouts. Treatment duration is carefully managed, and skin maintenance is continued with appropriate skincare or topical medications.

With isotretinoin, acne may temporarily flare during the early phase, followed by gradual and significant improvement over several months. Dryness of the skin and lips is common and expected. Regular follow-ups and blood tests are required to ensure safety throughout the course.

4. Who Is a Good Candidate

Medical acne treatment may be suitable for individuals who:

• Have moderate to severe inflammatory acne

• Experience persistent breakouts despite topical treatments

• Are prone to acne scarring

• Have acne affecting quality of life or confidence

• Require long-term acne control under medical supervision