Acne medications are usually not recommended if patients are known to be sensitive to similar medications. In general, when using topical treatments patients are advised to avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, nostrils, mucous membranes, open wounds or red or raw skin. Other conditions of concern vary by medication, including:

• Benzoyl peroxide. Not recommended for patients with dermatitis or eczema.
  
  

  
  

• Salicylic acid. Not recommended for patients with blood vessel disease, influenza (flu), varicella (chickenpox), or kidney or liver disease. Use on inflamed, irritated or infected skin may cause severe irritation.
  
  

  
  

• Retinoids. Many retinoids (e.g., isotretinoin) should not be used in women of childbearing age who are or may become pregnant.
  
  
• Clindamycin. Caution is recommended for patients with asthma, impaired kidney or liver function, or a history of gastrointestinal disorders or diseases.
  
  
• Erythromycin. Not recommended for patients with porphyria or liver disorders or disease.
  
  
• Tetracyclines. Not recommended for patients with impaired kidney or liver function, pregnant women in the second or third trimester or children under the age of 8.
  
  
• Antiandrogens (e.g., spironolactone). Not recommended for pregnant women.