Side effects of acne medications vary depending on the type of medication. Common side effects of nonprescription acne medications include erythema (reddening), edema (swelling), dry skin, burning sensations, itching and peeling skin.

Topical retinoids may increase susceptibility to sunburn. It is recommended that patients use a sunscreen with a skin protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 and avoid unnecessary sun exposure. Other common side effects include skin irritation involving scaling, redness, dryness, erythema, burning sensations, itching and peeling skin.

Isotretinoin is associated with numerous side effects, including severe birth defects or miscarriages when used during pregnancy. Women of reproductive age are required to use two separate, effective forms of birth control for one month before treatment begins, during the entire course of treatment and for one month after treatment ends. Pregnancy tests are typically performed every month during treatment. Other side effects include:

• Dry skin and cheilitis (inflammation and redness of the lips). These are common, occurring in nearly all patients.
  
  
• Mood changes. Depression, sadness and irritability are very common during isotretinoin treatment. This drug has been linked to numerous suicide attempts. Physicians will monitor patients for depression.
  
  
• Vision impairment. Opacities of the cornea and poor night vision may occur during this treatment.

The following side effects may also occur:

• Fragile skin
• Nosebleeds
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Lack of appetite
• Jaundice
• Dry eyes and mucous membranes
• Muscle and joint aches
• Liver damage
• Bone marrow suppression

Common side effects of topical antibiotics include skin irritation involving itching, burning or stinging sensations, dryness, erythema and redness. When antibiotics are taken orally, side effects may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, vaginal yeast infections, abdominal pain, jaundice or diarrhea. Tetracyclines are not recommended for use in children under the age of 8. They may cause permanent discoloration and enamel defects in developing teeth and retard bone growth.

Common side effects of hormonal therapies include irregular menstrual periods, breast tenderness, headache and fatigue.

Patients can lower their risk of side effects by using their medication exactly as directed by their dermatologist. Although many people believe that using their medication more frequently than prescribed will speed up the clearing of their skin, it may actually irritate the skin, delay clearing time, and increase their risk of side effects.