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
July 8, 2008

Pros:

Works most the time

Cons:

Green bottle runs out super super quickly

cant tetll if it really is the reason for my acne clearin up but....i started using it again and i cleared up almost completely....kinda breakin out minorly again but its not bad....worked last time i used it
July 7, 2008

Pros:

It did clear pimples the first couple times i used it.

Cons:

I broke out real bad after like a week of use. I called the info line and they told me that was supposed to happen and keep using and buying. So I did and my face burned.

It works but I guess I might be allergic to something in it. I dont know how many other people got the same reaction as me.
July 5, 2008

Pros:

I could feel a difference after the first day... Drys up pimples real quick, and prevents new ones.

Cons:

Does dry out skin somewhat... If you have oily skin and use a harsh wash that needs lotion after you wash you can't replace the cream for your lotion...

Worked great.. Only been using it for two months, my skin is completely clear, we'll see how happens a few months down the road.
July 5, 2008

Pros:

It's an amazing product! I have had acne for 2 years and it wouldn't go away. I used this for 3 days and i am now 100 % clear! My skin has a beautiful glow and looks extremely healthy! I didn't even suffer any redness or peeling, it's just great!

Cons:

Shipping costs + additional cost.. But overall totally worth it :)

Do NOT hesitate, this is probably the best solution to acne out there.
July 5, 2008

Pros:

12 years using almost everything, and my face got worst, since I use the regimen. The best thing that could happen to me

Cons:

Nothing at all.

REALLY WORKS!!!!
July 4, 2008

Pros:

Works good for me, reduces pimples in a day, and their clear by day 2 or 3.

Cons:

a little expensive for a small tube, but it lasts me awhile.

i dont put this on my whole face, just a little on my chin, and a little on my forhead. so it lasts me around 2 months. but it works good at keeping me clear.
July 4, 2008

Pros:

It works well for me!

Cons:

A Lil Pricey

For being a 23 year old male and dealing with Acne since 18....Im seeing results!!! I've been using Clinique now for almost a week and i honestly am seeing results. From starting out years ago with Clearasil (sp?) etc then to Proactiv (which caused me to breakout even more) Dr. Murad, then on Minocyclene and then used Aveda (Outer Peace Acne Kit *caused me to break out in paupils which hurt*) then Dr. Wexler Acnescription (Which was good but then the moisturizer and peel caused me to sting everyother day I used it) and now using Clinique Im seeing results!! I use the 3 kit system but i bought the bigger bottles. I do the regimen as it says use the pump wash then the lotion exfoiliater, then a not even a pea size of the BP (in the morning cause I react to BP i get too dry) then i use the Moisture Surgeâ„¢ Extended Thirst Relief to help relieve my dryness and blot off the excess then use the acne solutions concealer stick to help minimize my blemishes etc.
June 30, 2008

Pros:

The best and fastest treatment for my acne that i have ever used! I've tried many things like doxycyclin, erythromycin, retin-a micro, stridex, clean and clear advantage, BUT THIS BEATS THEM ALL. EVEN WORKED BETTER THAN TEA TREE OIL!

Cons:

It can darken the area around the pimple you apply it on, but it peels off in a matter of days. It does not scar! i reapeat, does not scar.

This is the best five dollars i have ever spent. I have ocassional cystic acne and i put a dab of this on a huge one and wake up to DRAMATIC results. Please don't over use this though. I have tough skin but my brother doesn't so when he loads it up like i do, it makes him red for thirty minutes. Strange thing is that i have used other BP gels and i thought that this wouldn't be any different, but it was! much better than anything I've used! And i have used EVERYTHING. Jojoba oil, tea tree, you name it. This along with drinking lemonade for a week will clear you up in no time.
June 29, 2008

Pros:

Cleared back and chest acne

Cons:

made my shoulders shiny

This is the only thing that worked for my body acne.
June 29, 2008

Pros:

Smells good. Created by derms. Accessibility is good if your local mall has a kiosk that sells it. Works if used correctly.

Cons:

EXPENSIVE!! Too many bottles if you need the whole kit. Acne returns worse even if you only miss one day. Doesn't work for cystic acne.

It works if you use it consistently but for the price you're going to pay and the aggravation of having to use all those bottles of product, it doesn't seem worth it. Plus the ads are not convincing when you know the actors and actresses have all been "touched-up" with makeup before they're on camera (I have family in the film industry). Don't waste your money and time. See a derm or your family physician for assistance. Mine said more and more of his patients are using Proactiv to help with cystic acne and it just isn't working. So don't bother. My situation was only slightly different because that wasn't the only time I used an OTC that was so popular. Topicals just don't work for some people. If you're the same way, you're better off using an internal (pill or injection) and getting better results.

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.