Abstract: A composition is provided that has a viscosity of less than about 15,000 cP and a pH of about 3.0 to 9.0 for treating a skin disorder in a human subject. The composition consists essentially of (a) a therapeutically-effective amount of at least one compound useful for treating such disorder, (b) a pharmaceutically-acceptable, lightly cross-linked polyacrylic acid polymer compatible with the compound, (c) optionally a water miscible solvent, (d) optionally a preservative, (e) optionally an oil phase component and suitable surfactant, and (f) water. The composition is useful for treating an inflammatory skin disorder, acne, or rosacea. The low viscosity composition has an advantage of being administered more accurately when combined with a container that administers the composition as drops.

Abstract: A formulation containing tretinoin, a gelling agent, proteinaceous material, and water is provided for the uniform topical application of tretinoin. The water-based formulation is oil- and fat-free, alcohol-free, and rich in proteinaceous material. The formulation is stable over time and is comedogenic and less irritating and drying to the skin.