Mild acne

Mild acne: comedones and a small number of inflammatory papules or pustules, without nodules or scarring. Topical therapy is usually sufficient.

ICD-10 L70.01 drug

Also known as: mild acne vulgaris, comedonal acne

Drugs used for this condition

BRetinolSecond line · Fat-soluble vitamin AFor mild acne, prescription retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) remain the first choice of topical therapy (AAD 2024, EADV). Retinol is a weaker over-the-counter alternative: skin converts it to retinoic acid, but more slowly and less potently than prescription forms, and direct trials of retinol itself in acne are scarce, with evidence largely extrapolated from the retinoid class. Reasonable as an alternative for mild acne or poor tolerance of prescription forms. Dryness and flaking early on are an expected, manageable effect.

How to read tiers A–F

Evidence tiers belong to the drug-indication pair, not to the drug as a whole: the same substance can be A for one condition and F for another.

AStrong evidence – first or second line in international guidelines
BRecommended in selected cases
CStudy data contradict each other
DBenefit not proven, no documented harm
FDocumented harm, or risk without benefit