antiacne

The antiacne group contain different classes of medicines. Some are used locally and others systemically. All target acne which is due to an infection with Propionibacterium acnes and skin inflammation. These different medicines are designed to reduce the production of sebum or infection and inflammation which may occur in acne. They also restore normal follicular keratinisation.

The different antiacne medicines

• Topical and oral antibiotics have antibacterial action. Their main purpose is therefore to control the infection with Propionibacterium acnes. They also have anti-inflammatory reaction.
• The topical antibacterial agents particularly include benzoyl peroxide. These also act on the bacterium responsible foracne.
• The retinoids are vitamin A derivatives which act by restoring a normal follicular keratinisation cycle and by inhibiting the function of the sebaceous glands. The most effective treatment for severe acne is isotretinoin.

Source: Merck Manuel, 4^th edition