An improved method, formulation and kit for the treatment of acne vulgaris are disclosed. The formulation is effective in inhibiting or killing the Proprionibacterium microorganism without utilizing antibiotics A preferred formulation alleviates the four pathogenic factors involved in the development of acne a) the putative pathogen of acne, Proprionibacterium acnes, b) abnormal desquamation of sebaceous-follicle epithelium (comedogenesis), c) the androgen-induced excessive sebum production, and d) the follicular reactivity (inflammation). The formulations are preferably applied as a cream, lotion or an emulsion.
