What is the strongest treatment for acne?

What is the strongest treatment for acne?

There is no single universally “strongest” acne treatment because the optimal approach depends on acne type (comedonal vs inflammatory vs nodulocystic), severity, scarring risk, and patient tolerance. For mild to moderate acne, topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, and—when appropriate—short courses of topical antibiotics may be used. In select cases with clear hormonal influence, therapies targeting androgen pathways may be considered. For moderate to severe acne, oral options (e.g., antibiotics or isotretinoin in suitable patients) require clinician supervision. Instead of focusing on “strength,” the best strategy is the right indication, the right combination, and a plan you can tolerate and sustain. A dermatologist-guided individualized regimen is the safest and most effective route.