Topical acne agents are creams, gels, lotions, and washes that are used on the skin and contain ingredients that treat acne. They are typically used for mild acne, although some may be used for the treatment of severe acne in conjunction with prescription medicines.
Topical acne agents include antiseptic washes that contain ingredients to gently cleanse the skin; and creams, lotions, or gels that exfoliate the skin, inhibit bacterial growth, speed up skin cell renewal or decrease the formation of comedones.