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Why do antibiotics clear acne?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Why do antibiotics clear acne? Is bacteria the cause of acne? Please explain.

Answered by Dr. Suvash Sahu

Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

Yes, acne is caused by a bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, but besides this other factors also play in forming acne. Change in keratinization pattern in pilosebaceous unit, which leads to a keratinous material to cause blocking of sebum secretion leads to comedone formation. These comedones plugging and complex interaction between androgens and bacteria in the plugged pilosebaceous units leads to inflammation. This is the reason for using antibiotics for the management of acne along with medicine like retinoids (Adapalene or Isotretinoin) for maintaining keratinization.

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always reach me at icliniq.com.

Answered byDr. Suvash Sahu
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Published At January 11, 2017
Reviewed AtDecember 22, 2025

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