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
January 30, 2007

Pros:

Not as irritating as other acne treatments. Clears skin pretty quickyly. VERY affordable.

Cons:

A little difficult to get the product out of the bottle.

So far, I've used ProActiv and a few other acne products, but I absolutely love acne free. My skin seemed to clear up over night. Using proactiv caused my skin to dry up and peel. It seemed to irritate my skin so much that the dryness was worse than the acne itself! The cost wasn't too great either... Compared to Proactiv, AcneFree's cleanser goes on much more smoothly and feels much better while washing. I also love the repairing lotion. The time released capsules of BP prevents my face from overdrying.
January 28, 2007

Pros:

This regimen really works, as long as you follow the instructions given. My acne truly has disappeared, even through a pregnancy.

Cons:

The lotion does discolor linens. Also it does dry out the skin initially. But these are definitely no big deal compared to acne.

Try this regimen, it really works!!! The regimen is cheap and you don't need a doctor's prescription. The dryness does diminish, especially after adding a AHA lotion after 1-2 months on the regimen.
January 26, 2007
I have used Proactiv for a couple of months and my acne has increased. My skin looks horrible. I wish I never tried Proactiv, and I want my skin back!!! I'm ending my membership to Proactiv today, and I would not recommend the product to anyone!!! Waste of money!!!
January 25, 2007

Pros:

It keeps pimples away

Cons:

drys your skin up.

It works well, but it drys your so it's all flaky and gross. Make sure you have a moisturizing cream when using.
January 25, 2007

Pros:

available at local department stores

Cons:

Didn't do anything. Started with the basic 3 step system, then was told to add a gel makeup remover, clay mask, spot treatment gel, etc.etc. Finally stopped shelling out the cash and went back to proactive.

stick to the makeup section.
January 24, 2007

Pros:

More effective than any other BP product I have used. It does wonders. And unlike other higher-concentration BP products, it doesn't bleach my clothes and towels as long as I wash my hands after using it.

Cons:

None really!

This is the only product that has permanently controlled my acne (along with use of moisturizers). Other stronger BP products cost more, you have to deal with prescriptions, it stained everything, it dried out my skin too much causing more breakouts, I had to spend much more time in the shower putting it on (utility bills) and I worried about sending more bleach-like compounds out into the environment. This way, most of the BP is absorbed directly into my face or back after I shower, rathe than going down the drain.
January 24, 2007

Pros:

Doesn't leave a white residue, doesn't go on heavy, doesn't cause irritation (probably from reduced rubbing) vs. the other recommended BP cream.

Cons:

Had to switch to white towels and pillow cases after my coloured ones started streaking, but this happens with all BP products.

I'm amazed that, for the first time in ten years, I finally have little to no acne. I still have some problems with clogged pores, but they don't turn into painful, monsterous, angry looking pimples. Though the regimen recommends using it twice a day, I find that a liberal layer put on at night before I sleep, along with washing twice a day, means that my face doesn't dry out and doesn't require moisturizers. I've been dropping far more money on a bunch of crap that likely just irritated my skin more for longer than I can remember. This is so easy that I actually do it every single night. I can't think of one night that I've missed since starting. Bottom line: it really works and is affordable enough to keep doing.
January 22, 2007

Pros:

Excellent 3 step system, has definatly made my skin look better, reduced redness and fewer pimples that wouldn't go until proactiv

Cons:

the first few weeks of using it, it does bring out the underlining spots and brings them to the surface, but thats the only way to achieve clear, healthy skin

use twice a day once in morning and again before bed, stay consistent with it and you will achieve clear skin
January 22, 2007

Pros:

Inexpensive, large size, clear on skin, easy to apply, doesn't stink, not as drying

Cons:

Relatively expensive to ship, especially to Canada.

I used to use Neutrogena's On-The-Spot Acne Treatment for years, but then they discontinued it in Canada. I had to find an alternative and I came across this one. It's less drying and I like the clear gel and its consistency. It's so easy to apply and you don't get that nasty white-ish appearance like with Neutrogena's cream. This product also doesn't have a strong smell. For my mild acne and sensitive skin, this product worked extremely well to prevent and treat acne, even though I just used it every night.
January 22, 2007

Pros:

3 step system sold together,takes the guesswork out, lotion combines moiturizing and benzoyl peroxide.

Cons:

Expensive! Amount of cleanser included lasted only 1 month but it`s supposed to last 2.

Proactiv Solution does work, it just doesn`t work well enough to spend 70 dollars Canadian on every 2 months. You are better off buying a gentle, non-medicated cleanser and a bottle of 2.5% bp at your local drugstore. Proactiv is not a hoax; if it was available at the drugstore for under 30 bucks I would recommend 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.