Antibacterials for topical use are generally utilized for the acne benzoyl peroxide
. Clindamycin and erythromycin are the antibiotics typically used locally in the treatment of acne vulgaris. They exert anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory and thus decrease the number of inflammatory lesions, but they have no effect on comedones. Adverse effects of antibiotics for local use are erythema, desquamation, dry skin and burning sensation. Their use is limited by the increasing bacterial resistance [i.e., erythromycin is no longer recommended because many germs are becoming resistant Gram-positive]. According to a recent consensus, it is recommended not to prescribe antibiotics alone but local associate of benzoyl peroxide or a topical retinoid, and this in order to increase the effectiveness of treatment and limit the risk of bacterial resistance. It is also advisable not to use concomitantly in the treatment of acne antibiotics and a topical antibiotic for oral use. Further information can be obtained online.