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
April 8, 2009

Pros:

got rid of my blackheads

Cons:

Read below

I had regular type skin; I had a few pimples in the T zone, and I had many blackheads on my nose and chin. My blackheads became sparse, but my pimples started to blossom. Also, my skin was red, flaky, and cracky. I would not recommend this to anyone with dry or regular type skin. This product is only for patients with severe acne that have no other choice. It is also expensive.
April 7, 2009

Pros:

clears skin significantly

Cons:

skin my become dry or red if overused.

It is now one of the cheapest acne systems around and it works, you just have to follow the instructions carefully. I like the fact that this product does not make acne worse before it gets better like alot of other systems do. Proactiv works fast and well. so far it is the best thing on the market to me. Proactiv had me completely clear after only 3 weeks.
April 6, 2009

Pros:

It works.

Cons:

Red and irritated skin during the first week of use (as expected).

I highly recommend this treatment. I had severe acne on my face (around 10 - 15 at a time). I've tried all kinds of products, over the counter and prescriptions. My dermatologist even put me on birth control and it did not work for my skin. After using the regimen for about two months, my face cleared up. I even saw results after the first try. After years of acne, I've also realized that benzoyl peroxide works better for me than salicyc acide (even though most over the counter products use this as the main ingredient). But Dan's treatment bottle is the best deal given its reasonable price and effectiveness. After three months, I went off the product and still have not had a breakout since, which is great because I've been breaking out continuously and most severely for the past year. Unfortunately, I have some acne scarring from my earlier acne. I wish I had found this website sooner. I highly recommend trying this production.
April 5, 2009

Pros:

perfect spot treatment, even though it's designed for guys.
i had a huge pimple that other medications WOULD NOT clear, and a nurse recommended this. two days after i started using it, it was gone. way better than clean&clear spot treatment.

Cons:

smells weird.
you'll get used to it, but you'll never forget it.
also, it dries clear if you use it like other product. you have to rub it in after it's half-dry.

a little unusual in the smell and a pain to rub in, but it's cheap, discreet, and it works. works even when you use normal facial wash to cleanse your face.
April 2, 2009

Pros:

Does actually stop pimples in their tracks, and prevent them getting worst and bigger. Good for ridding of pimples fast.

Cons:

Does dry out skin, and because the product is benzoyl peroxide, scarring may occur. Also, may rid of existing pimples, but does not prevent new ones.

Perfect for people with occasional pimples, but not serious acne =(. Use sparingly, but definitely use on problematic pimples! If looking for something to rid of a pimple fast... On-The- Spot acne treatment is the way to go.
April 1, 2009

Pros:

I really like Proactiv. It didn't work that great at first. But after I talked to someone at one of the stands in the mall, I found out I had not be using it correctly.

Cons:

A little sensitivity at first. If I get stressed, I need to be more careful to use everything.

Everyone should talk to someone at a kiosk. They know what they are talking about. The girl I buy from is so sweet and has a story to tell as well. They help A LOT, eventhough I wan't getting it from them to start with. The make up removing cloths are fab. Once I started taking off my make up before using the cleanser, I went from 85% to 99.5% happy and clear! There are a lot of other products they have that work great. You just have to look at and feel them. I use so many things from Proactiv, my cost if much higher than anyone should starting out. I even use the body products, make-up and shampoo. I spend about $150 every two months. If you use it for less than a month, you will not really see anything!! If you don't use it everyday, it will NOT work. If you get red, itchy bumps or swelling, you are allergic.
March 31, 2009

Pros:

It smells nice. I like the mask (free gift) the best. It didn't clear my skin. It is smoother, but not clear.

Cons:

Lotion burned a little the first couple of weeks. It can bleach clothing.

Not any better than other acne treatments I've found (that also use Benzoil Peroxide). Not worth the cost.
March 31, 2009

Pros:

i luv it

Cons:

i luv it

i luv it
March 28, 2009

Pros:

...unfortunately none.

Cons:

right after 5 minutes i put it on, it made my skin SUPER dry. and my face is always oily. my face got itchy and it showed that it was dry because my face started peeling very severely.

bottom line? JUST MADE IT VERY VERY VERY DRY AND IRRITATED! not so much redness but it was unbelieva believably DRY! i really couldnt believe how dry it was.
March 26, 2009

Pros:

I LOVE this product it works quick; keeps face shiny and clean. I tried this product and after the 2nd day my pimples where gone!!! It does a great job drying out the pimple and keeping my face looking fantastic!!!!

This product is worth every penny. Its inexpensive and does the job!!!

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.