Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a topical composition for the treatment of acne comprising water, an organic peroxide, an alpha hydroxy acid, a moisturizer, an isosorbide and a detergent. This invention also is directed to a method of making the composition of this invention. The method involves (1) heating water to between 60° C. and 70° C.; (2) adding a detergent base to the water and mixing the solution; (3) cooling the solution and adding an alpha hydroxy acid, an isosorbide and sodium pyrollidone carboxylate; (4) continuing to cool the solution to between 25° C. and 35° C. and then adding benzoyl peroxide and a preservative to the solution; (5) mixing and milling the product until smooth; and (6) adjusting the pH of the product to a pH of 3-5 with a base. This invention also is directed towards a method for treating a patient afflicted with acne by applying the composition of this invention to the affected areas of the patient's skin.