Topical Antibacterial
Reviews
3.5
20781 Reviews
Topical Antibacterial
Efficacy
54%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Note: Benzoyl peroxide clears the skin completely when applied correctly.
Topical Antibacterial
Side Effects
Low-Medium
Topical Antibacterial
Acne.org’s Real World Take
It’s been a staple of acne treatment for decades for a reason. When used properly it can completely clear the skin. It is widely available and affordable. Comes with side effects for the first few weeks and can bleach fabric.
Topical Antibacterial
How to Get It
This is an over-the-counter treatment. Here are some places you can find it online.
Read All About Benzoyl Peroxide
Compare To Other Treatments
5
31.3%
4
25%
3
17.2%
2
12.5%
1
14%

Used Benzoyl Peroxide? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
February 6, 2007

Pros:

Huge tube, glides on clear

Cons:

not in stores

I love this gel. it works better and last longer than anything at the drugstore
February 5, 2007

Pros:

-great product overall
-easy on the skin (redefines texture and rids blackheads)
-a smooth finish

Cons:

-skin gets dry/flaky on some areas
-bleaches towels, so I have to dry my skin creatively (toilet paper, which is a waste of paper)
-very costly; if you plan to be economical, I wouldn't recommend this product to you

I have seen commercial ads for Proactiv. I have obviously been convinced that "this product works wonders on your skin," which is very true! I have had great experience with it; after a week or so, I kept touching my skin b/c it felt so smooth to the touch, something that I hadn't felt on my face before. If you want a product that would clear up your face within a month, you must give Proactiv a try 'cause it really does improve your complexion. It's very hard on the bank, so plan on saving up to buy. Although it makes your skin become very dry in some places, that is easily prevented with the use of moisturizing lotions and such. I do not have to use a sunscreen in my case and was held under the impression that you did. But opinions don't go for everyone and likewise, you shouldn't take mine to heart b/c everyone's experiences are different. BOTTOM LINE: BUY PROACTIV TODAY (or unless you truly have sensitive skin) In response to recommendation: Yes ti
February 4, 2007

Pros:

I am very pleased with how well pro-active works. I use the body wash on my face everyday in the summer and every other day in the winter with the moisturizer. My acne is 99 % better

Cons:

Can be somewhat drying if you don't moisturize.

I am very pleased with how well pro-activ works. I use the body wash on my face everyday in the summer and every other day in the winter with the moisturizer. My acne is 99 % better and it was severe enough to scar before. Its the only thing that really works for me. It initially seemed expensive so I spoke with a rep and bought only what I needed instead of a kit. It worked out to be a steal considering what I'd been spending on drug store stuff. I just ordered the makeup and am anxious to try it. Note- I only have to buy more about every six months so the total monthly cost is divided by 6.
February 4, 2007

Pros:

- Started to clear my skin right away. Saw a difference within a few days

Cons:

- Occasionally dries up my skin, especially around my mouth.

I've had acne for quite sometime, especially in the chin area. AcneFree started clearing it up within 3 days. Haven't noticed any dramatic change after that, but it still works nice as a cleanser. My acne is still there, but the skin around it has become one color instead of looking so dark. Other than the dryness, its overall really good so far!
February 4, 2007

Pros:

It has gotten rid of a lot of the redness on my face. My skin tone is a lot more even and i have a lot less acne issues.

Cons:

I haven't noticed anything i dont like yet. It does make you dry but you have figure out how much is right for you. The only thing i'm kind of afraid of is that it might quit working because that's what i've heard from others.

I really like Proactiv. It's too bad that i couldn't of found it earlir. I had been messing around for years with different prescription stuff from a dermatoligist that was okay but it wasn't giving me the results i wanted. I am on doxycyclin too but it was still frustrating to look in the mirror and never be satisfied. With Proactiv looking in the mirror is a lot less stressful process. I really hope it keeps working and my skin continues to improve.
February 4, 2007

Pros:

None

Cons:

Most everything

Proactiv broke out my face horribly. I kept using the product hoping it had to get worse before it got better, but it just kept getting worse. It may work for some people, but it did not work for me at all, it made my acne worse, gave me scars and rashes I had never had to deal with before. I stopped using Proactiv and my face continued to get worse. I have been off of it about a month, and have been using Neutrogena and my skin is just now clearing up. Beware of all the success stories, it may work for some, but the risk involved to test it is difficult.
February 1, 2007

Pros:

My face felt really smooth after and it totally cleared my face. Been clear for a year now since using it. The mask is wonderful as a spot treatment for those annoying painful pimples as it calms them down and they disappear after a few days.

Cons:

-Bleaches Clothes-ruined a few of my fav tops:(
-Expensive
-Makes skin really dry, my skin got worse before it got better, I had a few really painful cysts popping out when I first used it but after that it's all good, they cleared.

It's a good product for me, but it's not for everyone.
January 31, 2007

Pros:

It works!! and it costs less than proactiv and it's more accessible.

Cons:

The toner can be a little rough and the cleanser can seem a little abrasive.

This product works. I am a 27 year old acne sufferer and after trying to control my problem with birth control pills which made me feel like crap, and also using dermatologist prescribed skincare whicn worked but was a pain to get and very expensive I was happy to find out about this line while searching on the internet and I figured after all the money I have wasted on products that didn't work what was another $20. I was happy to discover that this did work. At first the toner was a little strong so I added some witch hazel and that made it way more bearable and still affective. I used the system as reccomended for the first 2 days but then noticed the cleanser can felt a little abrasive since you are basically exfoliating your face morning and night so I use my regular creamy cleanser 1 time a day instead of the Klear Action cleanser.
January 30, 2007

Pros:

it got rid of all my pimples and i still use it in case if more come back

Cons:

not that much expensive but affordable

i love clearasil ultra its a product u know will work cause it worked for me i took 1week and it worked but pro/active is another acne cleanser that works but its very expensive
January 30, 2007

Pros:

its cheap and its only two steps, could it get any harder.

Cons:

none really, just remember to take the pills.

its a great product and its really cheap. ive been using it for about 16 days and its starting to clear up. the people saying it was the pills that cured them in three days are wrong, its the vanishing cream, the benzoyl peroxide is a common product used for spot treating acne, it shouldnt dry your skin out if you apply only a light layer (its a 5% strength) clearasil sells a %10 strength, that will dry you out for sure. honestly the cream does a great job and the pills over time are starting to help me prevent future breakouts. if you cant afford proactive because you have to keep using that expensive stuff for a long long time, then nature's cure is a fantastic alternative. 8 dollars at target, its worth it.

Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.