Topical Acne Preparations
- What is it for
Your doctor has prescribed one of the following medications for you to treat acne:
Topical Antibiotics
- Erythromycin
- Clindamycin
- Clindamycin with benzoyl peroxide
These medications work by killing the bacteria that cause acne.
Other Topical Acne Preparations
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Resorcinol / Sulphur
- Azelaic acid
- Salicylic acid
These medications work by removing the dead skin cells (exfoliating) and clearing blocked pores. Benzoyl peroxide can also help to kill the bacteria that cause acne.
This medication may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Topical Acne Preparations
- Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications
What side effects can
Topical Acne Preparations
cause?
The following side effects are common during the start of the treatment. Consult your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects do not go away or are severe.
- Mild stinging or burning sensation
- Dryness and peeling of the skin
- You can apply moisturisers after applying the medication
If you experience any of the following side effects, please consult your doctor immediately:
- Blistering
- Burning
- Crusting
- Itch
- Swelling
Before taking
Topical Acne Preparations
, what precautions must I follow?
- Inform your healthcare professional if you are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
What food or medicine must I avoid when I take
Topical Acne Preparations
?
Do not apply benzoyl peroxide together at the same time as topical tretinoin as it will reduce the effectiveness of topical tretinoin.
Topical Acne Preparations
- Dosage and How to Use
How should
Topical Acne Preparations
be used?
- Wash your skin with cleanser, rinse and pat dry
- Wash your hands before and after applying the medication
- Apply enough medication on the affected areas according to your doctor's instructions.
- For medications that are in the liquid form and comes in a bottle with an applicator tip, you may either
- Dab the applicator directly on the affected areas
- Dab the applicator onto your clean fingertips and transfer it to the affected area
- Avoid applying the medication on broken skin or too near to your eyes, mouth and nose as it may cause irritation
- Flush the area thoroughly with water if the medication accidentally gets into your eyes, mouth, and nose
- For benzoyl peroxide: Avoid contact with hair or coloured clothing as it may cause bleaching
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you forgot to apply a dose of this medication, apply it as soon as you remember. Skip the dose if it is time for the next dose. Apply your next dose at the usual time. Do not apply two doses to make up for the missed dose.
Topical Acne Preparations
- Storage
How should I store
Topical Acne Preparations
?
- Keep away from children
- Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
How should I dispose of
Topical Acne Preparations
safely?
Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.
