What topical treatments are available for acne?

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

Topical treatments (creams, gels and lotions) are usually the first line of treatment for mild acne. They include benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics (Zineryt ,Dalacin T), topical retinoids (isotrex gel, differin gel) and combinations of the above such as epiduo (benzoyl peroxide + retinoid). These treatments can be effective for mild acne, however they are unlikely to work for more severe disease. In most cases, by the time of consulting with a dermatologist patients will have already tried one or more topical treatments in addition to multiple over-the-counter (non-prescription) topical treatments.

Topical treatments include creams, lotions, ointments and gels. These can be effective treatments for mild and sometimes moderate acne, however they are unlikely to help severe acne. Common components in topical acne treatments include the following.

• Benzoyl peroxide. Natural skin bacteria can contribute to the development of acne (see post on the causes of acne). Benzoyl peroxide reduces the bacterial content on the skin surface. It also reduces inflammation and helps to remove dead skin cells (keratinocytes) which can block hair follicles (see also our post on benzoyl peroxide).
• Topical antibiotics. Topical antibiotics reduce bacteria on the skin surface and can have additional anti-inflammatory effects. Commonly used topical antibiotics include erythromycin (for example Zineryt lotion) and clindamycin (Duac gel and Dalacin T).
• Topical retinoids. Topical retinoids prevent excessive production of skin cells in the hair follicle (hyperkeratosis) which can lead to blockage of hair follicles and the formation of early acne lesions. Commonly used topical retinoids are adapalene (differin gel), isotretinoin (isotrex gel), and tretinoin.

Benzoyl peroxide is available in over the counter products, however topical antibiotics and retinoids are prescription-only in the UK.

Related Articles

• What are topical retinoids?
• What is benzoyl peroxide?
• What are combination acne treatments?
• When do I need tablet treatments for my acne?

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, Mohs micrographic surgery, facial reconstructive surgery, laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, acne, rosacea and acne scarring. Since 2019, I have been passionate about sharing information online about dermatology and skin care. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John’s Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King’s College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer and skin cancer diagnostics, and I constantly aim to translate the latest findings into better patient care. You can learn more about my Research.

In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

How I can help

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at several well-appointed and conveniently located sites across central London:

• London Bridge Hospital: Conveniently situated within The Shard, next to London Bridge station.
• Skin55 Ltd: Located at 55 Harley Street, this beautiful Edwardian building houses one of the largest private dermatology facilities in the UK with a comprehensive laser suite.
• OneWelbeck: Located close to Bond Street underground station. Mohs surgery, lasers, and other skin surgeries are performed in the state-of-the-art surgical suite here.

A new consultation is £250, a follow up consultation is £220. For more information on fees, please visit Prices.