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
August 13, 2009

Pros:

none

Cons:

dries skin very very badly

made my face red all over, like a rash. makes my skin peel. it gets some pimples to go away but leaves your face red and peeling
August 11, 2009

Pros:

Works really well, I see results really fast. And plus, the cleanser smells like baby oil! =]

Cons:

The lotion is a little bit drying, so I use it as an on-the-spot creme.

I really like this line of products, and I recommend it to others.
August 11, 2009

Pros:

get rid of zits that are already there, and blackheads.

Cons:

it can be a little drying, but not really a problem... and it doesnt smell wonderful. oh, and also it takes a few days to get rid of the pimples. :/

its a great product... i would definitally buy this again. :)
August 8, 2009

Pros:

May be helpful for minor acne.

Cons:

Products do not work as advertised. Extremely expensive.

Bascially unsatisfied with results. Their customer service is the worst I have ever dealt with. Horrible experience dealing with them and the issue was never resolved.
August 6, 2009

Pros:

cleared up my skin quickly

Cons:

dry my skin to the point of peeling

i would definatly buy this and use a moisturizer to help prevent dryness
August 5, 2009

Pros:

Does wonders for blackheads. I recently ran out of my 3.7% Benzoyl Peroxide so last night I mixed this with water hoping to dilute it a bit and applied it before bed. This morning some of my blackheads were gone.

Cons:

Stings if applied close to the eyes (as with most products) Dries skin a little. Can't be used all over face (only as spot treatment) unless mixed with water.

I'm only used it one night so I can't say when effect it has on the actual zits, but I've searched for a blackhead treatment and this works pretty well.
August 5, 2009

Pros:

No pros

Cons:

Waste of time and money!

It made me and my daughters acne worst o.e i am 25 &&;; my dauuqhttersz 9..... &&;; itt madee it bothh wostt i paidd overr $200.00 on proactiv o.o My skinn qott dryy.. And itt madeee myy eyes burnn my faseee looks likee a pissa.
August 1, 2009

Pros:

It quickly prevented breakouts and dried out existing ones.

Cons:

None.

If you exfoliate well after a shower and just apply a VERY thin layer , it works very well. My skin cleared up in three days! If it makes your skin flaky, you applied too much or you need to just put it on blemishes themselves.
July 31, 2009

Pros:

Love this product!!! By far the best product out there for acne. I sell Mary Kay and my products do nothing for acne. I cant say enough! My 14 year old daughter is using it too with great results! Also the bar soap is the best! No more dry skin!

Cons:

Not a One!!!!!!!

For the money we all spend on beauty products this is the best value. And the results will blow you away! Acne has been a part of my life since I was 10. Not now I don't have to fight it anymore. And my daughter will have beautiful skin from here on out! I have had dry skin my whole life and using the bar soap instead of regular soap, I don't need heavy lotions anymore! Just clean soft beautiful skin!!!! What do have to risk this is a no brainer product! Just try it and you will love it too!!! Shipping is super fast too! You could be using this great product in just a few days!
July 30, 2009

Pros:

gets rid of oil. doesnt take long to work. saw improvement in just 3 days

Cons:

none yet

its cheap it works other sh*t hasnt work everyones skin is not the same so it depends on the person. If your 20 like me and have pimples that sh*t anit gonna fly so get this sh*t use it and it will work.

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.