Disclosed is a topical formulation for preventing or treating acne, in particular to a topical formulation for preventing or treating acne through the antimicrobial activity of the formulation against acne-causing bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes, inhibition of excess production of sebum by inhibition of excess production of sebum by inhibition of 5.alpha.-reductase, inhibition of comedo, keratolysis and anti-inflammatory action, which comprises extract obtained from at least one oriental medicine selected from the group consisting of Cavalia gladiata, Biota orientalis and Coptis chinensis.