Data continue to establish the role of inflammation, not only in the pathogenesis of acne but also in the development of its most devastating sequelum, scarring. Although topical therapy is preferred by most acne patients and the physicians who treat them, historically no topical intervention has provided primarily anti-inflammatory effects. Topical dapsone 5% gel offers documented efficacy for the reduction of both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions. It has been proven safe, presenting none of the hematologic risks associated with oral dapsone. Data suggest the vehicle formulation enhances healing and contributes to tolerability, making topical dapsone 5% gel a worthwhile anti-inflammatory treatment for many patients with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris.