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
January 29, 2009

Pros:

Acne Free was one of the first and only things I tryed to use to 'cure' my acne. It's easy to use- just 3 quick and easy steps, and if you buy the right one it come with a spot treatment that can dry up a pimple in about 3 or 4 days.

Cons:

If your skin is like mine, not too sensitive but a little, then don't use the spot treatment the morning of work or school or where ever it is your going, only because it drys out the pimple- so you have a small spot of dry skin

The product is great! I used to have embarrassing acne on my forhead and on my chin. Also around my nose. I hated the bumps, and redness, and I hated being in public with it. When a family friend recommended it to me, I gave it a shot. Within lesss than a month I believe- the acne on my forehead was gone. Ever since I've been useing it consistantly it has been clear on my forehead. My chin just recently has come to the point where it is almost perfectly clear. Also, most 'lotions' that they say to put on your face are usually too oily for my skin, but AcneFree is great. I always feel refreshed after I use it, and it works all day. You put it on twice a day- for me its in the morning and before bed, and it leaves you feeling ready for the day. I definetly recommend this to anyone who cannot find relief in the products they are trying!! One last point is that i got a three month supply for about $30.00 (US) which- doing the math- is about $10.00 a month! Quick, affortable and efficent!
January 26, 2009

Pros:

It works better than most acne products that I've tried. You get a large bottle that lasts for some time. They share samples with every order. Email is answered quickly. Orders arrive quickly. No animal testing and no animal ingredients.

Cons:

Best to use in the shower only (it's a little runny and benzoyl peroxide bleaches). It took 2 months before I really felt that it was working well.

I'm 43 and for 20 years, I've tried many products and have been to a few dermatologists for various treatments (oral and topical). This is one of the better products that I've used. What surprised me is that is does not over dry my skin yet it has benzoyl peroxide in it. I moisturize and exfoliate. I highly recommend moisturizing. Carly's makes fabulous moisturizers and soap, too. Follow their directions and use it faithfully, and hopefully you'll have the same positive results.
January 26, 2009

Pros:

Clean, Fresh, Easy, and Works FAST!

Cons:

Skin may get itchy and irritated depending on how much you put on. Dont put too much on, just put on the right amount!

It has a GREAT PRICE, I just bought it today and tried it and I saw results fast! It's AMAZING:) Give it a Try!
January 24, 2009

Pros:

Has cleared up small pimples, has not really dried up skin, has cleared my skin.

Cons:

Has not cleared up all skin, stings a tad..

Over all, I like this product. I have a semi major pimple on my forhead and it still hasnt gone away after about a week of it being there. Also, has left my breakout on my forehead and it seems as if it just doesnt like my forehead.... Overall, if i have a pimple on my cheeks they usually are gone the next day... I rly like it thoughh...
January 24, 2009

Pros:

This product is amazing!
Cleared up my acne better than anything i've used before...

Cons:

The anti-DHT ingredients are great...if use this product with zinc or omega 3-6-9 your skin will look awesome :)

Quick results and for long time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 24, 2009

Pros:

EVERYTHING!!

Cons:

IT doesn't work, though

Use BIORE!! Some people have said that it doesn't work but I have had the opposite effect!! Everything they said does not work, works for me! I have had AMAZING RESULTS
January 22, 2009

Pros:

Instantly clears skin up.

Cons:

Might be trouble some in the winter and cause dryness. Just use extra moisturizer.

I have battled with acne for years. My back was the worst part about my acne. No beach and no tank tops in the summer. As a last resort I went on birth control to try to alter my hormones to better control my acne, didn't work. I found this product and it was, and still is amazing! My face is clear, healthy, and flawless!!! I wear bathing suits and tank top as often as I can in the summer!! PLEASE USE THIS PRODUCT, IT WILL WORK!!!!!!
January 21, 2009

Pros:

I used the moisturizing gel and liquid facial soap and it got rid of my redness and most of my pimples almost immediately. The moisturizing gel really works and it made my used to be dry face feel really good and smooth and clean.

Cons:

It can be expensive, and there are some spots where the pimples didn't completely go away.

It works 99% of the time, and it really made my skin feel good.
January 20, 2009

Pros:

NONE

Cons:

It made my acne worse! Not only did I break out even more, but my skin was dry on top of it all. So I had pimples, splotches and my face was peeling. How embarrasing

I do have sensitive skin and have had acne my whole life but this is not as great as they make it seem. It did not work for me even a little bit. And I even tried it twice thinking I gave up too soon the first time! They told me it was a 30 day free trial, but if you use it 31 days you have to pay for it (and when you go to cancel, they tell you that you need to give it more time.) Then, after I already used a bottle and wanted my money back because it didn't work, they wanted the old bottles back after I already threw them away! What a nightmare, please don't waste your time and money and actually see a doctor that can see your history and treat you according to your skin.
January 17, 2009

Pros:

nOne .

Cons:

its a bad product i hate it i learned its only for ppl who dont hve sensitive skin...it says it on the bottles too . jus warninq ppl dat its for ppl who have skin that can handle strong ingredients.

BAD ! . i hate it it does nothing 4 me ! . all cuz i hve soft sensitive skin..................................

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.