Toothpaste is not a cure for acne. Toothpaste applied directly to the skin surface may cause more serious damage to the skin. Although toothpaste feels cool and more comfortable when applied, the substances contained in toothpaste may induce skin peeling, redness, swelling, bumps, and may even induce bacterial as well as fungal infections. To treat acne, regular medications can be applied clinically. Commonly used ones include retinoic acid ointment, benzoyl peroxide gel, and antibiotic ointment. Antibiotic ointments commonly used include fusidic acid ointment, Bactrim ointment, erythromycin ointment, and lincomycin ointment. The treatment of acne can also be oral medication, but only if the acne is severe, commonly used are isotretinoin capsules.