What is Doxycycline for Acne?

Doxycycline is a prescription-only antibiotic used to treat moderate to severe acne. It belongs to the tetracycline group of medicines and is usually prescribed when topical treatments such as gels or creams are not enough on their own.

How Does Doxycycline Work?

Doxycycline works by reducing the bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) that contribute to acne. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, which help calm redness, swelling, and painful spots. By tackling both infection and inflammation, it helps clear the skin and prevent new breakouts.

When to Consider Doxycycline

You may be prescribed doxycycline if you have:

Moderate to severe acne affecting the face, chest, or back
Acne that has not improved with topical treatments alone
Inflammatory acne with painful spots, pustules, or nodules
Who Should Use Doxycycline

Adults and teenagers over 12 years old with persistent or severe acne
Those able to follow medical advice and complete the prescribed course

Who Should Not Use Doxycycline

Children under 12 (risk of tooth discolouration and bone effects)
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Anyone allergic to doxycycline or other tetracycline antibiotics
People with severe liver disease or swallowing difficulties

Alternative Treatments for Acne

Topical treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or topical antibiotics
Other oral antibiotics like lymecycline or minocycline
Hormonal treatments such as the combined oral contraceptive pill for women
Specialist options like isotretinoin for severe or resistant acne (under dermatology care)

Can You Buy Doxycycline Over the Counter?

No. Doxycycline is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. You will need an online or in-person consultation with a healthcare professional to check if it is safe and suitable for you.

How to Take Doxycycline

1. Take the capsule or tablet exactly as prescribed, usually 100 mg once daily.
2. Swallow with a full glass of water while sitting or standing upright. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking it, as this reduces the risk of throat or stomach irritation.
3. Take it with food if it upsets your stomach, but avoid milk, dairy products, or antacids at the same time, as they can reduce absorption.
4. Try to take it at the same time each day for best results.
5. Continue treatment for as long as advised by your doctor, often 3 to 6 months for acne. Do not stop early unless told to.
6. Use sunscreen and protective clothing, as doxycycline can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
7. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

Active ingredient: Doxycycline hyclate (equivalent to 100 mg doxycycline per capsule or tablet, depending on the brand prescribed)

Inactive ingredients (excipients, may vary slightly by manufacturer):

Lactose monohydrate
Maize starch
Magnesium stearate
Colloidal anhydrous silica
Gelatin (in capsules)
Titanium dioxide (capsule shell colouring)
Sodium lauryl sulfate
Other coating agents or colouring agents depending on the brand

Always check the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the full ingredient list — especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Very common and common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 or up to 1 in 100 people):

Nausea or vomiting
Stomach pain, diarrhoea, or indigestion
Headache
Increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity), leading to sunburn more easily

Uncommon side effects (up to 1 in 100 people):

Thrush (oral or vaginal yeast infections)
Rash or skin reactions
Difficulty swallowing or irritation of the throat or oesophagus

Rare side effects (up to 1 in 1,000 people):

Liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine)
Severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing)
Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling
Raised pressure in the skull (can cause persistent headaches and vision changes)

Important to note:

Side effects are usually mild and improve as your body gets used to the medicine.
Always use sunscreen and avoid tanning beds while taking doxycycline.
Report any unusual or severe symptoms, especially allergic reactions, to your doctor immediately.