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
June 4, 2008

Pros:

I have been using this product for a week and half and the acne sized is reduced but not completely gone . let me wait and see

Cons:

TAKES TOO LONG TO WORK. nothing else

it reduces the acne size quickly buut it seems to take a long time to get rid of it completely
June 3, 2008

Pros:

Started using this product on Wednesday b/c of a few more acne than normal and I felt desperate to try something to alleviate the problem. it is now Tuesday and my face is almost cleared up. WOW! this stuff works fast!!!!!!!!!

Cons:

i see i will run out of cleanser quicker than the rest. why doesn't the mfr. double the size of the cleanser and cut the other 2 products size in half??? i only use a smidge of the other stuff daily.

i am assuming if you don't see results within the first few days then this product is not for you.
June 3, 2008

Pros:

None

Cons:

Made my skin worst now i have dark spots from using the brefining mask.

I wouldn't recommend anyone to use this product and this was my 3 time using it i gave it one my try because before i wasn't even right it doesn't matter proactiv solution is garbage it made me have more bumps then when i started using it my skin looked better before it's a waste of money and skam they get all those people to do their commerical to act like it works it don't it's a waste of money that Vitaclear that comes with proactiv sucks too
May 31, 2008

Pros:

It works!! It is affordable and it is fragrance free (fragrance is the biggest skin irritant). This product can be used anywhere on the body, where pimples form.

Cons:

If you have dry skin put on a moisturizer after.

One of the most effective and affordable products available anywhere in the US.
May 31, 2008

Pros:

Works well. Saw results after about two uses. Price is great.

Cons:

The scent and the wash is kinda gritty. but a small price to pay for results.

Works really well with a good price. Try is first before the expensive stuff. Also my results may not be yours so don't just take my word.
May 30, 2008

Pros:

Does what its meant to, better than similar products and is many times cheaper. Goes on clear and doesnt 'clump' with moisturiser.

Cons:

Drying, as to be expected.

Effective, affordable product that does whats its meant to.
May 30, 2008

Pros:

dries out acne , stops new ones from coming up and kinfof cleared sacrs

Cons:

abit of redness

try it , if doesnt work then dnt use it. lol btw using skinb5 powder at the same time so mayb thats helped it allot
May 28, 2008

Pros:

It does work well in the long term, makes your face feel clean and wakes you up of a morning.

Cons:

It does get worse before it gets better but the result is brilliant and I've stopped using anything now because it has worked so well!

I'm amazed that this worked so well! I just put it on the main areas i used it now and again but i don't really need to any more. Although I do think the result is bad if your skin doesn't agree with it and I know it is really bad if your allergic to it. Don't use it accesively (bad spelling!) if it is your first time. But if you know it's ok for you use it however you want!!!
May 27, 2008

Pros:

its clears up old ones

Cons:

its Sucks and is $$$$$$$$$$
i would sugest not using it

it dryes out my skin and i so don't like it... im 14 and have had acne for a long time and nothing seems to work!!!!!!!!! :(
May 24, 2008

Pros:

WORKS FAST, CHEAP,

Cons:

NONE

WORKED IMMEDIATELY as soon as i put it on my face, i could almost see a difference in the pimples.

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.