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 26, 2008

Pros:

it works, it got rid of all my big pimples and little ones, and kept my skin clear

Cons:

it made my face red, and it doesn't get rid of scars

it works but it makes my face really red and my parents told me i should stop using it because of the redness it causes, when I stoped using it I broke out.
January 26, 2008

Pros:

its clearing up my blackheads, it definitely eliminated all of the oil my skin produces, i am seeing an improvement in my complexion

Cons:

redness, stinging, itchy, very dry skin, small tube

the package does say it can bleach hair and dyed materials, however i have yet to have any problems with bleached clothing (even my turtleneck). this could be because i wait until my face feels dry following its application and then use a moisturizer. this product really dries out your skin. definitely find a good moisturizer you can use multiple times a day to compliment its use. i am using this product along with Neutrogena's moisturizer and extra gentle cleanser to complete The Regimen. there has been an obvious improvement in my complexion. my smaller blackheads are disappearing, my skin is not as oily, and areas of my face that have not been clear for years are clearing. HOWEVER following the use of all three, my face burns, stings and is very dry. also, my upper cheeks look almost sunburned since beginning the Regimen with these products. despite this, i doubt i'll discontinue using these products because my complexion is improving.
January 24, 2008

Pros:

Leaves your skin feeling really clean, seeing difference in acne in 3 days.

Cons:

None

I use this with the clean and clear oil-free moisturiser and my skin feels amazing, acne is clearing up. Even though I have sensitive skin, this reacts perfectly fine with my skin.. but I know my skin is fine with benzoyl peroxide, other people might find this differently.
January 22, 2008

Pros:

Cleared my son's skin for a day or so...

Cons:

Severe allergic reaction. He's been in pain for a few days now - using benedryl and hydrocortizone cream. His face looks burned.

Test it on a small patch of skin first - be careful.
January 22, 2008

Pros:

Clears all of my acne up. A pimple or 2 still comes through once a month but not a problem. Reduces oil on my face, smoothes and exfoliates my skin.

Cons:

Dries me out around mouth and sides of nose, but moisturizer takes care of that problem. Certain moisturizers don't apply so well on top of this BP cream. Can only use this at night because of the white color and weird feeling on skin.

This stuff works at clearing acne up, but also at preventing acne as well. I use it every night and its been over 2 years. This product works great and still fights acne even though I've been using it for so long. Smooths and evens out skin tone, just love this stuff. Too bad it can't control my pore size though.
January 22, 2008

Pros:

Works for other people like Vanessa Williams, Kelly Clarkson, Puff Daddy.

Cons:

Has not improved my complexion, on the con trier it has made it less desirable to look at. My pillow sheets are bleached.

I am very serious about winning my battle with acne. I did the routine to the "T". My face was bombarded with many massive white heads within the first three weeks then swarmed with tiny pustules for the last two months. They acne has not gone away. I am left with more scarring and acne than before. I am sure this will work on others. For facial reference, I have oily and a mild amount of hair, plus I am of Latin origin.
January 19, 2008

Pros:

dry up acne very fast if u just stop picking it.

Cons:

peeling skin, especially around nose area.

good product to clear up acne.. but not to prevent acne to pop up..
January 14, 2008

Pros:

WORKS FAST!!!! In just a few hours after applying my first treatment of this wonderful little miracle in a tube i found ,my skin looking GREAT!

Cons:

It does somewhat dry out your skin but what acne treamnent dosn't?????????

This is great and very reasonably priced
January 12, 2008

Pros:

This is the only thing that has actually worked for my skin!!! My pimples are almost gone, and it's my first week using it!!!! I swear, it seems to have even cleared away some of my old acne scars too!!!!

Cons:

My skin slightly dries out when using it, and if you use to much, it will leave a slight white residue.......

I am so happy I found this stuff!!!! I have spent so much money on acne products, and found this little miracle for less than five bucks!!! Everyone noticed my acne clear away within a week!!! And although it doesn't say anything about clearing old acne scars away, I swear it has faded mine away!!! Highly recommend this product.......
January 10, 2008

Pros:

Makes skin feel very clear and smooth, moisterisingis really nice and can be applied in bucket loads and skin doesnt feel clogged

Cons:

only used for one week and around my mouth, chin and bottom of cheeks are really really dry and itchy and a bit flaky .. even after applying heaps of mosteriser

* does clear skin * only use if your skin isnt dry, * DONT rub the cleanser into your skin for long as per the insturctions * DONT use the Reaparing lotion every day maybe just 2-3 times a week, *moisteriser is good

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.