Does antibiotics help treat acne?

Contrary to popular myths, such as eating too much chocolate and having dirty skin, the real cause of acne is due to a complex interplay between hormones, skin oils, and bacteria. Teenagers are particularly vulnerable to acne because of their rampant hormones, in particular, increased levels of androgens. These hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce excess amounts of sebum, the sticky oil that results in oily skin and clogged pores. This causes the cells lining the skin to become thick. As a result, they stick together and clog the hair follicles. This creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, known as propionibacterium acnes, which have inflammatory factors that cause acne.

For many years antibiotics have been used to kill off the bacteria and treat acne. However a recent study by Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust in the UK has discovered that four out of five acne sufferers could have acne that is resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics.

According to Judy Cheung, skinB5 Founder, and Managing Director, "The best way to clear skin congestion and breakouts is to correct the root causes - internal body imbalances - by feeding your body with powerful nutrients that promote clear skin and good health. We recommend oral supplements of the B group vitamins in particular vitamin B5, B3, folic acid, biotin, as well as vitamin A, zinc and copper. The skinB5 Extra Strength Acne Control Vitamins contain a powerful dose of all these key clear skin nutrients and are specifically formulated to effectively stop acne before it starts. Alongside eating well, drinking lots of water and lowering your stress levels are also important."

Using soothing and gentle skin care products is also a must. French green clay and sea mineral salt (main ingredients in the skinB5 Skin Purifying Mask) is an excellent spot treatment, too, as it helps to control bacteria growth that can worsen breakouts. "Another good tip is to double cleanse at the end of the day," adds Judy. Select a cleanser specific for acne prone skin such as skinB5 Acne Control Cleansing Mousse or Australian Botanicals Acne Control Cleansing Mousse which is gentle, non-drying and antioxidant-rich that will work deep down to remove excess oil and problem causing bacteria. Cleanse once to remove make-up and then again to flush out the residue that has settled into your pores! Make sure your cleanser is free of drying agents such as benzoyl peroxide, which can irritate your complexion.

One step those with acne prone skin often skip is moisturising their skin. When in fact this is a really important step to include - even oily skin needs hydration, particularly if you have been using benzyl peroxide topical products that dry the skin. Select a moisturiser that won't clog your pores such as Acne Control Moisturiser  and/or Australian Botanicals Acne Control Hydration Essence., it will deeply hydrate acne prone skin and help prevent breakouts.