# Acne Treatment Summary Acne treatment ranges from over-the-counter topicals to prescription systemic medications, depending on severity. First-line options include topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and adapalene, which are effective for mild to moderate acne and work by reducing bacteria, unclogging pores, and promoting skin cell turnover. For moderate to severe inflammatory acne, oral antibiotics like doxycycline are commonly prescribed, while hormonal treatments (estrogen and progestin) target hormonally-driven acne in women. Severe, treatment-resistant acne warrants isotretinoin, which is highly effective but requires close medical monitoring due to potential side effects.