Embodiments relate generally to topical compositions useful for treating or preventing a variety of cosmetic conditions and dermatological disorders, where the composition comprises an oxidative pharmaceutical drug and an antioxidant polyhydroxy acid or polyhydroxy lactone. The polyhydroxy acid or polyhydroxy lactone improves the cutaneous effects of the drug. The embodiments further relate to the treatment of a variety of cosmetic conditions and dermatological disorders comprising administering to a subject an effective amount of the composition and to methods of making the compositions.