The present invention describes an extremely effective, simple, novel, inexpensive, safe and quick method to treat both acne and warts, each with a different etiology and different clinical symptoms, by topically applying an effective amount of one or more polyvalent metal compounds. The polyvalent metal compounds include, but are not limited to, bismuth compounds, zinc compounds, magnesium compounds, aluminum compounds, calcium compounds, copper compounds, titanium compounds, manganese compounds, chromium compounds, barium compounds and iron compounds. The present invention can also be applied to the treatment of rosacea. The present invention can also be employed to prevent scarring and to facilitate healing or elimination of the scars once formed.