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
August 28, 2009

Pros:

Ive just started using the product and it really refreshes my skin unlike the other products that drys it out.

the 2nd step lotion is awsome....when i use a cotton ball and wipe my face with it...i COULD see all the dirt and bad stuff on it.

Cons:

dont buy the big packs..very expensive.I got the small one with the 3 step and everything in it

Its awsome...oh and dont use the product independent follow the 3 steps and it will be great
August 27, 2009

Pros:

Overall it does work

Cons:

Im always too lazy to do all 3 steps, dried the crap out of my skin & made is irrated, left acne scars

It worked for me but eventually i stoppped using it because i hated that it was 3 steps & took about 5-10 minutes to put on
August 26, 2009

Pros:

works great! i'm 47 years old, and my skin looks so good, i don't always wear make-up-people comment on my pretty skin. i'm also a fair-skinned red-head, and if you use it gradually, and build up to twice a day use, you won't have peeling or dryness.

Cons:

don't see any - but you have to use it as directed, and consistently.

it works - if you're having acne at any age, try this product!
August 25, 2009

Pros:

works at first and makes skin around blemishes feel nice

Cons:

stops working after afew days

good for some just not me
August 25, 2009

Pros:

Its nicely packaged with alot of reading material. The repairing lotion is helpful when used consistently

Cons:

The scrub doesn't lather and the toner is the equivalent to witch hazel. Too overpriced for something that really didn't work for me.

Skip it, I'm much happier with using the Regimen which is cheaper and gentler.
August 24, 2009

Pros:

It Works Perfect!!!!

Cons:

I Think You People Who Think It Sucks Should Try It Again But This Time Read The Instructions!!!

It Worked Perfect On Me I Still Use It...Its Been A Yerar Now!!! I Do Recomment This...100%!!!!
August 21, 2009

Pros:

It really helps with oily skin. Helped clear up my face.

Cons:

It did dry it out a bit. Nothing you can't fix with a good moisturizer.

I think it helped quite a bit. Also, I really feel like I should share this: I've had bad acne for the longest time. I also had noticed man like hairs on me around the same time the acne popped up (I'm a woman.) I went to the doctor about this. I have too many androgens in my body. They gave me a pill and I don't have acne anymore. If you have similar symptoms, see a doctor. About one in every 10 women have a hormone imbalance.
August 21, 2009

Pros:

it will work for like the first few days, gets rid of some pimples

Cons:

its dries your skin out badly, but i use E-cream for it. but after a week it stops working, a few days ago i didn't have have many pimples but now i have like 10.

i dont know what to say about this product. its good at fist but then it gets worse
August 21, 2009

Pros:

It really wrks

Cons:

Expensive as hell

Use it if u havent used anythng else but its very high
August 19, 2009

Pros:

Initially reduces new blemishes.

Cons:

Stops working after a very short while. Over dries skin and lends so significant increase in oil production.

This stuff is crap. It's over-priced, it only works (and not very well at that) for the first few weeks. It made my skin WAY oilier. Since I've stopped using it and my skin oil has gone back down to normal production levels. I'm not going to waste my money on this garbage anymore. The only Proactive product I like are the make-up removing cloths. They're actually gentle and very effective. I use these, and a green tea gel cleanser along with a green tea moisturizer. I'm far better off now.

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.