For decades we have known that one of the very best antibiotics at our disposal to treat inflammatory skin conditions, especially acne and rosacea, is minocycline. Minocycline is like all antibiotics in that it kills bacteria. However, more important than this is its anti-inflammatory effect.
Minocycline for Acne & Rosacea
Acne vulgaris and papulopustular rosacea are two clinically similar conditions that both affect the face and cause breakouts. With these types of acne, we tend to see inflamed bumps, some of them with an overlying white cap. These are called papules and pustules. Inside of these bumps, there are inflammatory white blood cells that substantially contribute to the problem with their inflammatory properties, including the release of proteins that further worsen inflammation.
For decades, oral antibiotics (those taken as a pill by mouth) have been the antibiotic of choice to treat acne and rosacea (the National Rosacea Society explains why here). The best dermatologists have worked to be more conservative with the use of these medications because of their other potential effects on the body. Taking this into consideration, our general approach at Advanced Dermatology of the Midlands has always been to discuss plans for how to minimize exposure to oral antibiotics whenever we are prescribing them.
When treating these specific conditions with oral antibiotics, we also counsel patients on how they should reduce and attempt to stop the antibiotic in time as they improve. This helps to minimize systemic exposure and potential side effects. We also frequently use topical (applied) antibiotics. We use these instead of (or along with) oral antibiotics. This allows us to get the best effect possible for our patients with the highest level of safety. Where necessary, this combination can make it easier to stop the oral antibiotic more rapidly.
Minocycline has remained the most prescribed oral antibiotic for acne and papulopustular rosacea. Yet, up to now, we haven’t had a topical version of this medication. The exciting news is that all that has changed!
Types of Topical Minocycline
Amzeeq (4% minocycline foam)
Amzeeq entered our repertoire for treating acne about a year ago. We have seen some excellent results so far in kids ages 9 and older. This is fantastic because we are seeing more and more acne in the preteen/prepubertal age group.
Zilxi (1.5% minocycline foam)
Zilxi was more recently approved for use in rosacea. It is best in treating the type of rosacea known as papulopustular rosacea. Patients with this condition are generally adults and have scattered pimple-like areas on the face. Zilxi is already showing good promise in our practice, with many patients having excellent results.
We are very excited to have these medications available to offer to our patients as well as an entire repertoire of other great rosacea and acne treatments.
Consider scheduling a consultation for treatment of your complexion.
Advanced Dermatology of the Midlands | Best Dermatologist Omaha & Council Bluffs, IA | Board Certified Dermatologists
At Advanced Dermatology the Midlands Our vision is to deliver the highest level of dermatological care, using the most advanced technology and evidence-based medicine in a personalized and compassionate environment. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
