Topical acne agents

Other names: acne creams

What are Topical acne agents?

Topical acne agents are creams, gels, lotions, and washes that are used on the skin and contain ingredients that treat acne. They are typically used for mild acne, although some may be used for the treatment of severe acne in conjunction with prescription medicines.

Topical acne agents include antiseptic washes that contain ingredients to gently cleanse the skin; and creams, lotions, or gels that exfoliate the skin, inhibit bacterial growth, speed up skin cell renewal or decrease the formation of comedones.

Selected Topical Preparations for the Treatment of Acne

Agent	Common brand names	Dosage
Tretinoin	Retin-A Micro	Apply small amount once daily before bedtime.
Adapalene	Differin	Apply small amount in the evening.
Tazarotene	Tazorac	Apply small amount once daily in the evening.
Clindamycin	Cleocin T	Apply once or twice daily.

Topical acne agents are creams, gels, lotions, and washes that are used on the skin and contain ingredients that treat acne. They are typically used for mild acne, although some may be used for the treatment of severe acne in conjunction with prescription medicines.

Two types of alpha hydroxy acids that are used in nonprescription acne products are glycolic acid and lactic acid. They treat acne by removing dead skin cells and calming inflamed skin. Alpha hydroxy acids also spur the growth of new, smoother skin. This helps improve the look of acne scars and pores.