Comparing the Effectiveness of Topical Treatments for Acne Vulgaris

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition that affects many adolescents and young adults and can significantly impact both physical appearance and psychological well-being. It develops when hair follicles become clogged with excess sebum and dead skin cells, allowing Cutibacterium acnes bacteria to grow and trigger inflammation. This paper reviews the effectiveness of several topical treatments for mild to moderate acne, including benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, topical antibiotics such as clindamycin, retinoids, and combination therapies. A literature review of peer-reviewed clinical studies and meta-analyses was conducted to compare treatment outcomes based on reductions in acne lesions and bacterial growth. The findings suggest that while individual treatments can improve acne symptoms, combination therapies that target multiple causes of acne are generally the most effective. These results highlight the importance of multi-mechanism topical treatments in managing acne vulgaris.