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
December 3, 2010

Pros:

It can really clear up acne. My thanks to the makers of proactive and making it available to the public. It dries up my cystic acne.

Cons:

I agree with some reviewers, this product can dry your skin. My skin is so dry and thin.

Ive been in battle with my acne since puberty todate (I'm 37yrs old, asian). It's been very costly having it maintained thru dermatologist. My point is, it's still better to go to dermatologist, have your skin analyze. This way, it will take care of your overall skin health. Not just acne but skin's moisture and elasticity. This is very important for women my age.
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December 2, 2010

Pros:

Clears up acne.

Cons:

Drying
Bleaches

I've had acne since my teens and it was getting old. Nothing was working for me. I even tried a hardcore regimen of prescription acne medications, with only moderate success. Since I switched to Dan's Regimen, I've had clear(er) skin for the first time in over ten years. When I first started using this, my acne actually worsened in certain areas; not only were there larger, more visible pimples, they HURT. Badly. But I stuck with it, and after about a month, I started to see drastic improvement. Six weeks in, aside from old scars, I only have about one or two visible pimples at a time--such an improvement. Plus, the gel dries clear and residue-free, unlike cream-based BP treatments. The negatives to this treatment are that it causes a burning, tight, dry feeling and that it bleaches everything it contacts. My night shirts all have big blotchy white stains from rubbing against my chin during the night. However, I use white towels and pillowcases to prevent excess linen destruction and consider a few bleached nightshirts a worthy sacrifice for my smooth, clear skin!
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November 24, 2010

Pros:

Clears skin!!
Easy to apply
Lasts a long time

Cons:

DRYING!
Expensive shipping (to Denmark) :s

In around a month, it cleaned my skin. I still have red marks, but it's really nice to have a SMOOTH face! :D. The dryness was difficult to handle (esp when you're wearing makeup), but the skin will adjust slowly to it. I've noticed how my skin is getting less and less dry, but it takes some time. But it's definitely worth it!
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October 20, 2010

Pros:

- clears up acne for the most part
- not super irritating
- quick and simple

Cons:

- pricey
- it smells bad
- doesnt get rid of it all

I have honestly tried EVERY acne medication you can think of besides oral medication. NOTHING HAS WORKED! I used proactive for about 3 weeks a year ago and it did absolutely nothing! Then I decided that I was going to try it again about two months ago and it was been such a blessing to me. My skin is clearing up and I finally feel more confident about myself. Although it doesnt clear the acne up completely, I would recommend an acne facial every month or so because it clears out ALL of your clogged pores. The two things I listed will definitely help peoples' skin that is oily and black/white head prone. Overall, I love it!
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October 6, 2010

Pros:

Not harsh -

Cons:

None other than I have to order

Try it, if you like it, it works for you good, if not be nice.
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September 25, 2010

Pros:

The clay mask is a great spot treatment and the repairing lotion works okay. Gets rid of black heads.

Cons:

Dry skin
Spread my acne
Caused acne scarring
Caused redness and irritation

I used this for about six months hoping it was actually working but I was being irrational. I kept thinking it's suppose to get worse before it gets better. NOT. My skin got so much worse, my acne spread from just my chin and sideburn areas to both cheeks and eventually my forehead. I never had acne before working in fast food. I thought this would help but even after I quit working in fast food my skin got worse. This product did not work for me if anything it made my problem excruciatingly worse and now I have the scars to bear from it. Eventually I switched to aveeno foaming cleanser and I cleared my skin. The only reason it gets a little bean guy is for the amazing clay mask which works well even though it smells funny. I do not have sensitive skin so I do not know why this product destroyed my face but maybe you will have better luck all though I strongy advise against this product unless it's the last choice you have left.
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September 25, 2010

Pros:

LOVE IT! Does'nt dry out skin. It is the only product I have found that works!

Cons:

NONE

Carley's products are wonderful! All of them! I will not use anything else ever! I love that they are all natural. I am pregnant and not afraid to use them!
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September 15, 2010

Pros:

- Inexpensive
- No prescription needed
- 2.5% is just as effective as 5% and 10%, just with less sensitivity
- Keratolytic, anti-bacterial
- Diminishes size and redness of breakouts considerably overnight

Cons:

- Initial use of the drug causes irritation and peeling, although skin eventually develops a tolerance after a week or more
- Powerful bleaching agent. Watch that it doesn't get on your clothes

This is THE zit-killer. I keep a tube of this handy at all times. It's the perfect night spot treatment and can also be applied to the whole face (avoiding the eye area and lips of course). Benzoyl Peroxide is a must-have in almost anyone's acne regimen. Be careful if using this product for the first time, and begin with a 2.5% concentration and only build up to a higher percentage of necessary. I made the mistake of starting with a 10% Benzac about a year ago when my acne was at its worst. After applying liberal amounts over a few days I was peeling like crazy. Everyone was asking what happened to my skin. Also, the irritation only seemed to exacerbate my acne more. Not a good look. :| Nowadays I have pretty much perfected my regimen, and have learned that if used properly and in conjunction with medication and the right skincare products, you can be free of zits altogether!
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September 4, 2010

Pros:

Works quickly and effectively

Cons:

Can't use this product in sunlight, drying

I use this as a night cream, I just put it all over my face. The thing is, I've been doing this for years now and my skin is so used to the product that it will not remove any acne- but it does however prevent acne. When I first started using this a while back, I remember instantly loving it! So, although it doesn't work so well for me now, if you've never used this, it should work for you. Note: when I started using this, my acne was moderate
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August 31, 2010

Pros:

Smells great
Leaves skin smooth and soft
High quality ingredients
All natural
No animal products
No animal testing
Phenomenal customer service
Lots of free samples with orders
Actually works!

Cons:

Will bleach clothes or towels if not used as directed

I've been using this stuff since October 2009. Not only does it work, smells great, accompanying products are amazing and the customer service is PHENOMENAL. My skin is not only clearer, but it has this glow that I've heard about, but never actually seen, especially not on me! You do have to make sure to use the product exactly as directed, but once you get the routine down, it's easy. I have sensitive skin, and had to juggle moisturizers to find one that was best, but Carley's worked with me on that, and I only ever had to pay for the ones that worked for me (and one did work wonders). I don't think I'll ever switch products.
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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.