Therapy for acne vulgaris varies according to the types of lesions present as well as the severity.

Additionally, patient expectation varies remarkably between affected individuals.

Some patients with "minor" disease may go to great lengths to treat existing acne, whereas some with severe disease may choose minimal or no treatment.

In general, acne that is primarily comedonal responds most quickly to topical retinoid agents and acid products.

Maintenance acne treatment therapies should also address the long term well-being of the skin.

Such, acne treatment regimens should require adjustment over time:

• an initial intensive treatment phase aimed at eliminating or minimizing the most obvious signs of the skin disease;
• a follow-up regimen addressing the skin's needs as a whole to ensure optimal functioning and to act as a prophylactic.