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
September 9, 2007

Pros:

Face is smoother, blackheads and whiteheads disappearing, acne scars fading.

Cons:

slightly red face, gets a little dry if you don't moisturise.

Seems to be working good for me so far. Just remember to moisturise, any face moisturiser will do.
September 9, 2007

Pros:

Does a good job of cleaning, keeps acne away, has a good scent
Recommended by my doctor!

Cons:

The first week or two when you use the product, your body isn't used to it and it might get worse, but once your body is used to it, it works!

This stuff is great AND affordable
September 7, 2007

Pros:

none

Cons:

Made my skin ichy and red. I had swollen eyes the next day!

Don't use if you have sensitive skin!
September 6, 2007

Pros:

They have excellent advertising to get people to fall for this stuff...

Cons:

EXPENSIVE!! I got the "trial" and it still wasn't cheap.

For a mediocre product, it seems ridiculous to have to spend such a large amount of money on it. It kinda works, but not fabulously...I didn't really notice that it got rid of the MAJOR zits, just reduced the number of the smaller ones--heck, I could have just covered those up with makeup and saved myself a hundred bucks!
September 6, 2007

Pros:

Dries up throbbing, painful, full, huge pimples very quickly and effectively.

Cons:

Won't fade "dried up" pimples.

Not bad! I'm not too impressed, yet. Worth the money, a sure bet to quickly dry up big whiteheads, but there may be something better to deal with those tiny pinprick mild spots. Mild tingling after several applications.
September 5, 2007
u can get it on amazon. search it
September 5, 2007

Pros:

quick results for mild acne

Cons:

packaging is small

Did the job and was affordable.
September 1, 2007

Pros:

I felt like i was really doing something about my acne So i had confidence....

Cons:

It made my face worse and then SLIGHTY BETTER...

It felt like it was buring my skin off due to redness all over my face but i continued to use it as i thought that it would better with time.

This stuff is over rated! Jessica simpson and all these other celeb's that get paid millions to say they use it... Dont. It's not THAT great.
August 29, 2007

Pros:

affordable, dont have to wait for it in the mail.

Cons:

made acne worse. The 'terminator" too strong.

dont use if you have sensitive skin.
August 28, 2007

Pros:

cheap, dries out bumps fast, fades dark spots

Cons:

dry and irratating to skin on first contact

better than proactiv, or that 3 day daily wash thing by clearasil

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.