You should be sitting or standing up when taking Doxycycline. It is best to take it with a meal, plenty of water, and at least an hour before going to bed.
Once in the morning and once in the evening, apply Azelaic Acid gel (generic Finacea) to a freshly cleansed, dry face.

As an antibiotic, Doxycycline works to eliminate the bacteria that cause acne, thereby preventing new acne from forming.

Azelaic Acid gel is a chemical exfoliator that breaks down blockages that clog pores and feed the bacteria that cause acne. Because Azelaic Acid gel, like Doxycycline, kills acne-causing bacteria, combining the two medications will improve your chances of reducing acne.

This combination of acne treatments is likely to be most effective for those with sensitive skin, as Azelaic Acid gel isn’t as harsh on the skin as other topical acne treatments. It can also help people who have nodular or cystic acne, as well as papules (small red spots) and pustules (red bumps with white tips).

Because doxycycline can increase sun sensitivity, it is critical not to overexpose the affected area and to wear an SPF of at least 30. Doxycycline can also cause nausea, dizziness, a fast heart rate, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea in some people.

Azelaic Acid gel is generally gentler on the skin than other acne treatments, but some people may experience itching, burning, or tingling in the affected area.

See the Doxycycline and Azelaic Acid gel patient information leaflets for more information on side effects and proper use.

While pregnant or breastfeeding, neither Doxycycline nor Azelaic Acid gel should be used.

When our clinicians prescribe you acne treatment, please let us know if you are taking any other medications, as Doxycycline can interfere with the effectiveness of other treatments. It’s also a good idea to avoid using other topical acne treatments or cosmetics while using Azelaic Acid gel, especially if they contain a lot of alcohol.

Some women may be prescribed the oral contraceptive Co-cyprindiol in addition to a topical solution to treat their acne instead of taking oral antibiotics. Some acne sufferers may be given a cream or gel to help them deal with their condition.