In addition to benzoyl peroxide, there are a number of other antibacterial ointments used to treat mild inflammatory acne. These ointments contain chemicals such as sulfur that kill bacteria. In addition, there are a number of stronger antibiotic creams, gels, and lotions that contain powerful bacteria-killing drugs such as tetracycline and erythromycin, which are used to treat moderately inflamed acne. Although these products do control infection, they have no effect on clogged hair follicles. Therefore, these products are often combined with salicylic acid or a more powerful prescription-strength ointment such as Retin A, a popular retinoid.

Retinoids are derived from vitamin A, which has a potent effect on the skin. Scientists have found that when vitamin A is applied to the skin, it slows the growth of skin cells. This is important in preventing acne because when new skin cells form, old skin cells are shed. Slowing the growth of skin cells keeps dead skin cells from building up inside the hair follicles. This stops new comedones from forming. In addition, for reasons that scientists cannot explain, vitamin A slows down oil production and stimulates the production of collagen. This gives the skin a smoother appearance. Therefore, vitamin A is often used to help smooth out acne scars. According to the American Academy of Dermatology: “Vitamin A products can make a big difference in the appearance of the skin. They speed [collagen] cell turnover and slow down oil production.”