Doxycycline

I have been using Doxycycline for exactly one week to treat a mild case of foliculitis (folliculitis). Four days into my use of the antibiotic my face broke out in several small pimples. I cannot tell whether these pimples are a reaction to Doxycycline or just a regular breakout.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It is possible that this was a regular break out of acne as doxycycline is the treatment for acne also and it is less likely for doxycycline to cause such a rash. In case of an allergic reaction, it can cause an itchy rash or itchy bumps/hives.

Just keep you face clean by washing with a mild soap atleast twice a day. Pat it dry and do not rub it. Avoid picking or pressing the bumps. You can also use Benzoyl peroxide 5% lotion or gel once at bedtime. An amount of lotion the size of a pea should be enough to cover most of your face. If your skin becomes red or peels, you are using too much of the medicine or applying it too often.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.