The appearance of drug-resistant bacteria has led to a sharp increase in clinical incidence and mortality, significantly impacting human life and medical systems. In order to address the problem of drug-resistant bacteria mutations and the prolonged process of antibiotics investigation, the invention of new antibiotic methods is required. As a novel technique for antibacterial purposes, Photothermal therapy (PTT) utilizes solar energy to generate thermal energy, raising the temperature in the local area and eliminating the bacteria. Due to the unique antibacterial mechanism, PTT Reduces the risk of drug-resistant bacteria emerging, thus providing a special advantage in the field of antibacterial. The fabrication and preparation of various photothermal nanomaterials are essential for PTT applications. In this review, the latest research on the design and synthesis of various photothermal agents (PTAs) is discussed and summarized. The development and applications of PTAs are discussed simultaneously. Finally, the existing problems and the challenges of developing a PTT antibacterial application are discussed and assessed. This review aims to provide reference experience for the design and synthesis of PTAs materials with efficient antibacterial properties.