Key takeaways
- The American Academy of Dermatology publishes evidence-based guidelines for acne.
- Topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide are core treatments in the guidelines.
- The guidelines advise against using topical antibiotics alone.
What it is
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions. Because many cosmetic products make acne claims, clinical guidelines are a useful reference for what has strong evidence.
What the evidence says
The guidelines review the research on acne treatments and make graded recommendations. Topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and combination therapies are recommended as first-line approaches for many patients, and the guidelines caution that topical antibiotics should not be used as a single treatment because of concerns about bacterial resistance.
What the evidence does not establish
The guidelines address clinical treatments and do not endorse or evaluate individual cosmetic brands. They also do not replace an individualized assessment.
Who may want to pay attention
People with persistent, painful, or scarring acne can benefit from seeing a dermatologist rather than cycling through products.
Sources
- Zaenglein AL, Pathy AL, Schlosser BJ, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;74(5):945–973.e33. View on PubMed
Last reviewed October 2026. Educational information only, not medical advice. Findings from one study or review do not apply identically to every person or product.