Acne clinical guideline

Guideline highlights

Recommendations are made in favor of several topical therapies, including:

• Benzoyl peroxide;

• Topical retinoids;

• Topical antibiotics;

• Clascoterone;

• Salicylic acid; and

• Azelaic acid

Recommendations are made in favor of several systemic therapies, including:

• Doxycycline;

• Minocycline;

• Sarecycline;

• Combined oral contraceptives;

• Spironolactone; and

• Isotretinoin

The guidelines recommend against adding pneumatic broadband light to adapalene 0.3% gel.

In addition, the guidelines recommend several good clinical practices, including:

• Using topical therapies combining multiple mechanisms of action;

• Limiting systemic antibiotic use;

• Combining systemic antibiotics with benzoyl peroxide and other topical therapies; and

• Adjuvant intralesional corticosteroid injections.

This guideline updates the 2016 AAD acne guidelines.

View the Academy guidelines disclaimer.