For mild acne, the sources point to a topical treatment first. Here is what they name.
The first-line choice for mild acne
NCBI PMC concludes that in the treatment of mild acne, benzoyl peroxide is an effective first-line treatment.
Other topicals named for mild acne
The same source says mild acne responds favorably to topical treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and a low-dose retinoid.
Those are starting points for the mild end. Your dermatologist picks and combines them based on your skin.
Overviews, scars and a neighboring concern
Cleveland Clinic lays out acne types, causes, treatment and prevention in one overview. A review titled Exploring Acne Treatments: From Pathophysiological Mechanisms to Emerging Therapies goes deeper into the options. If acne has left marks, the AAD page on acne scars: consultation and treatment covers that step. A comparative study of chemical peels and microneedling for moderate to severe melasma covers a different skin concern.
Bringing your history to the visit
Write down what you have already tried and for how long. Bring that list to your dermatologist so the first step fits your history.
If the first step falls short
The first step is a starting point for mild acne. If skin does not respond to it, go back and ask what comes next.