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
April 5, 2007

Pros:

This works very good I had mild acne i like a week my skin was back to normal

Cons:

Its burns a little

Get this if you want clearer skin fast
April 4, 2007

Pros:

It makes your skin soft, and it does keep your skin from getting oily or too dry.

Cons:

It smells a little funky, and if you stop using it for even a week your acne might come back.

Proactiv doesn't work as fast as the prescriptions I used to use, but it doesn't make my skin peel like the prescriptions. I noticed that if I go off it for a few days my acne comes back worse, but when I use it again my skin clears quickly. I only use the cleanser once a day, because it is abrasive, but It helps make your pores look smaller. I don't use as much as they say, and I have like 3 bottles of each of the things in my drawer because I got the subscription. Only order one at a time!
March 30, 2007

Pros:

It does work if its used right

Cons:

Pricey, hassle to keep up with, is dissappointing for the first month or so because you won't see immediate results

It really does work if you simply use it as directed. Don't scrub too hard, and don't pick or pop at blackheads and other acne spots, otherwise it will put all of the time you put in to waste. Stick with it and your skin will look great. Wouldn't recommend trying other products on your skin in addition to this unless your skin has cleared.
March 22, 2007

Pros:

invisible

Cons:

doesnt work, expensive

Used this product with the regimen for over 4 months and didnt see any results. Waiste of money.
March 21, 2007

Pros:

.. none.

Cons:

- toner and cleanser are hard to squeeze.
- peroxide is very runny.
- MADE ME RASH. -> severe red dotting all over face, unpleasant skin surface, discolouration of skin.

It sucked. I spent 30 bucks on it, and it made my skin look like hell. The products dont smell nice, theyre hard to use, and they made my skin all dotty and it feels disgusting.
March 13, 2007

Pros:

smells nice, easy to use, helps with [some] pimples

Cons:

works only for SOME types of skin, doesn't prevent future pimples as promised (for me anyways), costs way too much

I'll start with the pros. It smells nice and it's easy to use (I'm reminded of Jessica Simpson exclaiming the short amount time it takes to use it). That's about it... Now the cons. I really did not see those "fast" results those people on the infomercials were boasting about, but the product did help manage SOME pimples. However, with one gone, another took its place a couple of days after. I also feel that the cost does not fit the amount they provide. It's way too costly in my personal opinion. Despite all this, I do believe that a lot of people have a had very good experiences with this product, so I guess it won't hurt to try (if you're rich). Who knows? You may be one of those lucky few whose skin clears up with Proactive.
March 12, 2007

Pros:

It works
Makes face feel soft and clean
Good price and can get it at the store

Cons:

A little hard to get cleanser out of bottle
Sometimes drys out face in some areas

I really like this stuff. It leaves my skin feeling clean and soft. I still get a little acne here and there, but my face does look and feels better. It is worth the money I paid and it is nice that you can get it at the store and dont have to pay any shipping costs.
March 9, 2007

Pros:

I don't look like a teenager anymore

Cons:

They didn't have it when I was a teenager & cost

I'm in the middle of the road for acne severity (maybe 30 pimples/day) with sensitive skin and I've tried everything the dermotologist recommended to no avail. I'm lazy and only use the cleanser once in the morning. I think the night creme is a miracle lotion that I only use once a month when hormones dictate I need the extra help. I just ran out and within a week I'm looking like a teenager again. I do wish you could only buy the products you wanted, not the packages. I also tried the tinted moisterizer with SPF and it was great-didn't cause more breakouts like other SPF products. It is strong, like all the others. I use neutrogena face lotion for sensitive skin with SPF and I don't have the peeling problems/redness I used to with the cleanser alone.
March 4, 2007

Pros:

Works immediately. Doesn't irritate skin, clears sh*t up FASST. Looking forward to seeing how well it prevents new stuff from forming. Another satisfied customer.

Cons:

the small isn't great, but it's not bad either. There really are no "cons". Great product.

if you have acne, use this stuff. I've used everything, with results that piss me off. This stuff is the real deal holyfield.
March 2, 2007

Pros:

I started using Triaz about 3 weeks ago. I used to get pretty bad acne breakouts, but I havent had one since. I also use an over the counter face wash and moisturizer at night. My advice is wash two times a day, and moisturize both times!

Cons:

None if you moisturize!!

I suggest it for most people if you have a good amount of acne. If you have very minor acne I would suggest just washing and moisturizing your face twice a day with an over the counter product.

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.