What is the most common medication used to treat acne?

Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, is one of the most commonly used and effective medications for treating severe acne, particularly cystic acne. It works by significantly reducing the size and activity of sebaceous (oil) glands in the skin, which leads to decreased oil production. This medication also helps prevent the formation of new acne lesions and has anti-inflammatory properties. Due to its effectiveness, it is often prescribed when other treatments, such as topical or oral antibiotics, have not achieved satisfactory results.

While the other options may also be used in acne treatment, they serve different roles or are generally used for milder cases. For example, clindamycin is an antibiotic used to decrease bacteria that contribute to acne, and retinol is a vitamin A derivative that can help with skin cell turnover, addressing mild acne issues. Benzoic acid is known for its antibacterial properties and is commonly found in over-the-counter acne solutions, but it is not as potent as Accutane for severe cases. Therefore, Accutane is a go-to for more challenging scenarios, making it a popular choice among practitioners.