Which topical medication is often used for acne treatment?

Topical retinoids are commonly used for acne treatment due to their ability to normalize the shedding of skin cells and prevent the clogging of pores. By promoting cell turnover and helping to prevent the formation of comedones, they effectively reduce both the severity of existing acne lesions and the likelihood of developing new ones. Retinoids also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that can help minimize the redness and swelling associated with acne.

In contrast, 5-Fluorouracil is primarily a chemotherapeutic agent used in the treatment of skin cancers and premalignant lesions, not acne. Antifungal creams are indicated for fungal infections and have no role in acne management. Calcineurin inhibitors are primarily used for inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, rather than acne. Thus, the effectiveness and mechanism of action of topical retinoids specifically target the pathophysiology of acne, making them the appropriate choice for this condition.