Traditional topical treatment of acne.

Abstract

Few studies of topical treatment in acne stand up to modern scientific requirements, and several of those which do suggest that some modalities make acne worse rather than better. There is evidence that sulphur, soap, and light treatment prolong the course of illness. This also applies to some components of the vehicles used for acne medicaments. Fortunately, traditional treatment can be abandoned in favour of the superior benzoyl peroxide and retinoic acid.