Topical treatments for acne are usually antibiotics such as Tetracyclines. It is not suitable for people who are allergic to tetracyclines.
Apart from its bactericidal action, it has unique acne healing properties.
Topical Vitamin A such as retinoic acid can combat acne effectively. However it is an expensive and fragile compound. During storage it must avoid sunlight and heat,
and when mixed together with other chemicals such as tetracyclines it may have a very short shelf life.
First general fruit acids (BHA) is the strongest of fruit acids. Namely Salicylic acid and Benzoylperoxide, they can open up clogged pores and hence reduce pore size indirectly.
A strong preparation can clean up all the acne effectively within several days after an initial bursting phase of all available acne. However it does makes the skin rather dry.
Newer generations fruit acids has 2nd and 3rd generations. 3rd generation topicals are rather mild, with strong moisturizing properties, but not effective for severe acne.
2nd generation acids are slightly stronger, and can combat severe acne. Concentration ranges from 4 to 20%. They have the additional benefits of making the skin smoother and shine better with smaller pores.
Even though they are effective and can be used daily, often titration is needed from a milder 3rd generation building up to a stronger 2nd generation concentration.
Thus it is best if it is prescribed by an expert conversant in these products.