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 9, 2008

Pros:

Skin is very clean. ns you see the left over dirst the most on step 2. Pimples do go way and it does prevent them.

Cons:

It will dry your skin unless you purchase their Dramtically Different Moisturizing Gel and apply it a a 4th step. :)

It is Awesome!!
July 9, 2008

Pros:

My skin cleared up in less than a week! It really works! I tried pro active and it didnt work! My face is now clear and not oily!

Cons:

May dry your face out a little! not too bad!

Its affordable and It acually works! its such a great product!
July 6, 2008

Pros:

None really so far

Cons:

None really except that it doesn't seem to work.

I love the wash from PanOxyl on my back so I thought I tried to BP for my face. I've been using it for almost a week and 0 results. Most of my acne that has been there before the use of the PanOxyl is still there. It really hasn't made my acne better or worst.
July 1, 2008

Pros:

Easy to use but that's about it.

Cons:

Doesn't work for me, Pricey

I got this product because I was beggining to develope mild acne around my chin/jawline and I have had moderate acne on my forehead for a long time but my hair covers it so I wasn't really worried about it. When I first started using the product it worked great but that was for a very short time.. about 2 weeks. Since then my acne has just gotten worse around my jawline, 2 to 3 times worse i'd say, however it has done a nice job of mostly clearing up the acne on my forehead but thats not what I was worried about, perhaps the product is for more severe cases but its just not for me.
July 1, 2008

Pros:

Best acne medicine on the planet.. Works great!

Cons:

nothing!

I spent so much money going to dermatologist and basically trying every product on the market! Proactiv has saved my life.
June 30, 2008

Pros:

This stuff is amazing. The only treatment that has ever worked for me. I've had a clear complexion for over year now :)

Cons:

The price sucks and you're gonna have to be extremely consistent in using it. As soon as you stop for a week or so, you'll break out like hell.
Oh, and the three-step process is a bitch every morning and night...takes like 20 minutes.

ONLY use this if nothing else has worked for you. It worked for me and friends of mine, and it can work for you too, if you're willing to pay for it and use it TWICE a day, EVERY day.
June 30, 2008

Pros:

Cleared my acne, inexpensive, doesn't dry out my skin like other products i've used.

Cons:

You have to order online or by phone and shipping and handling fees really add up!

I've been using Proactiv Solution for 3 months now and it has worked! Of course, i still get a pimple here and there, but my face is about 95% better! I use the 3-step system along with the refining mask, green tea moisturizer, and the VitaClear vitamins that they also offer. I follow the directions exactly and i'm trying my best to be on a healthy, balanced diet. Also, i don't use any foundation. Even when i was just starting this regimen i tried to stay off of makeup as much as possible because it can still make you break out even if it's oil-free and non-comedogenic. So try to not use cosmetics girls! Good luck!
June 30, 2008

Pros:

it really made my skin feel nice and it made my skin feel really clean

Cons:

it kinda burned when i used it and it made me breakout even more

it's a waste of time
June 28, 2008

Pros:

Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields are dermetologists. Money-back guarantee.

Cons:

Leaves you with drying. Mentions that helps prevent new pimples from forming but this was the exact opposite. Never once mentions that it doesn't work for everyone + individual results may vary. Deceives you into thinking it works for everyone.

Doesn't work for everyone/most people. Don't waste your money or time or your fabrics.
June 28, 2008

Pros:

Does exactly what it says it will do. Follow the directions carefully, don't look for shortcuts, and plan to use the products forever! Acne is NOT ever cured, just managed! These products work very well if you use them as directed.

Cons:

The price.

I have had excellent results using these products. I like the basic kit and add the green tea moisturizer and the clarifying night cream to the regimen twice daily, plus the refining mask a couple of times a week. My skin looks great.

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.