When your skin gets infected, dermatological antibiotics, antibiotics specifically formulated or prescribed to treat bacterial infections of the skin. Also known as topical or skin-targeted antibiotics, they’re used to stop infections before they spread—whether it’s a cut, acne, or a surgical wound. These aren’t the same as oral antibiotics you take for a sore throat. They’re designed to work right where the problem is, with less impact on the rest of your body.
Two of the most common types you’ll see are clindamycin phosphate, a topical and injectable antibiotic often used for surgical site prevention in people allergic to penicillin and besifloxacin, an eye-specific antibiotic used for bacterial conjunctivitis and other ocular infections. Both are part of a larger group that includes drugs like mupirocin, erythromycin, and levofloxacin. But not all antibiotics work the same on skin. Some are better for acne, others for infected cuts, and a few are only for serious cases. Using the wrong one can lead to resistance, irritation, or even worse infections.
What makes a dermatological antibiotic effective isn’t just the drug—it’s how it’s delivered. A cream might work for a rash, but you’d need a gel or solution for an open wound. Some, like clindamycin phosphate, are used before surgery to prevent infection. Others, like besifloxacin, are only meant for the eyes. And then there’s the risk: some antibiotics, like levofloxacin, can cause serious side effects if used too often or in the wrong way. That’s why knowing when to use them—and when to ask for something else—is just as important as knowing what they are.
You’ll find posts here that break down exactly which antibiotics are used for what, how they compare to cheaper or safer options, and what red flags to watch for. Whether you’re dealing with acne, a surgical wound, an eye infection, or just trying to avoid unnecessary meds, this collection gives you real, no-fluff info. No hype. No guesswork. Just clear comparisons, real risks, and what actually works for your skin.
