Oral Medication – Doxycycline / Minocycline / Antibiotics

Oral medication is often recommended for moderate to severe acne that does not fully respond to topical treatments or in-clinic procedures alone. These prescription-only options work from within to reduce bacteria, calm inflammation, and prevent new breakouts. Common medications include doxycycline, minocycline, and other oral antibiotics, prescribed and monitored by our doctors based on your skin needs.

Sessions Required
Daily intake
Duration of Results
Gradual improvement within weeks
Session Duration
3–6 months
Downtime
No downtime
Skin Concerns
Breakouts on the chest or back Hormonal acne (in selected cases) Inflamed or cystic breakouts Moderate to severe acne with pustules Papulopustular rosacea Recurring acne
Breakouts on the chest or back
Hormonal acne (in selected cases)
Inflamed or cystic breakouts
Moderate to severe acne with pustules
Papulopustular rosacea
Recurring acne

About This Treatment

Oral antibiotics like doxycycline and minocycline target Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria responsible for acne, and help reduce the redness and swelling that come with inflammatory breakouts. They are usually prescribed when breakouts are persistent, widespread, or painful.

In certain cases, oral medication may be used alongside topical treatments or in-clinic procedures like chemical peels or laser therapy to enhance results. Treatment plans are customised and adjusted by our doctors to suit different skin types and acne severity.

How Does It Work?

  • Suppresses acne-causing bacteria in the skin

  • Reduces inflammation and swelling from within

  • Prevents formation of new breakouts when used consistently

  • Supports healing and reduces the risk of post-acne marks

Key Benefits

  • Clears Moderate to Severe Acne
    Effectively targets widespread or persistent acne, especially on the face, chest, or back

  • Reduces Inflammation and Redness
    Helps soothe cystic or nodular breakouts

  • Complements Topical and In-Clinic Treatments
    Can be combined with facials, peels, or laser to improve overall results

  • Medically Supervised
    Monitored closely by our doctors to ensure safety and long-term skin health

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between doxycycline and minocycline?

Both are oral antibiotics commonly used for acne. Minocycline may be more lipophilic (fat-soluble), allowing better skin penetration, while doxycycline may have fewer side effects for some individuals. Our doctors will advise based on your skin condition.

Yes. Oral antibiotics are often used alongside topical creams or procedures like chemical peels for better control of breakouts.

Some may experience mild digestive discomfort, dryness, or sensitivity to sunlight. These effects are temporary and monitored throughout the course.

Oral medications help bring acne under control. Long-term maintenance with topical care or periodic in-clinic treatments may be advised to prevent recurrence.

It can help reduce inflammation caused by hormonal acne. In certain cases, our doctors may explore additional treatments to manage underlying hormonal triggers.