Topical therapy of acne

During the last 20 years, the treatment of acne vulgaris has been changed. The major classes of therapeutic agents that the dermatologist have the possibility to use are topical, antimicrobial agents and hormonal drugs. Combined therapy with a topical retinoid and antibiotic can normalize follicular epithelial desquamation and reduce bacterial proliferation. New retinoids, such as adapalene, have an additional antinflammatory action and co-administered with a topical or an oral antibiotic can be a rational therapy for moderate forms of acne. The choice of different treatments needs to be oriented by the complete knowledge of the acne pathogenesis; the choice of drugs has been directed to real aesthetic needs of the patient and modulated on the basis of therapy response. The Authors propose treatment’s guidelines for mild and moderate acnes.