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 10, 2009

Pros:

Convenient packaging, clears up existing acne

Cons:

Drys out skin, doesn't prevent new pimples

It worked for the first week or so...after that, my skin was a flaky mess with more pimples than I started with. It's not worth it!
April 7, 2009

Pros:

I picked this up at a local drug store for less than ten dollars. Within a matter of days, the treatment has cleared up my acne. I still have a couple of blemishes here and there, but for the first time in ages my jawline is almost totally acne-free.

Cons:

When first applied, the cream stings my eyes a little bit, but it goes away quickly.

This product absolutely works. It's inexpensive, all-natural, and you'll begin to see results amazingly quickly.
April 5, 2009

Pros:

Fight spots fast. Cheap compared to other types. Easy to find. No main side effects

Cons:

Dry skin after using it for a month or so. I mean, kinda bad, if you reaply water to the face it eventually goes towards the afternoon. I have used moist-creams befor, but they often bring back spots.
If you stop using this cream, YOUR SPOTS WILL

a product that finally works, thank you
April 4, 2009

Pros:

It cleared my skin right up within a few weeks.

Cons:

In the process of clearing my skin up it broke uot even more for the first few days of using it, at first i thought it wasn't going to work.

GOOD PRODUCT!
March 31, 2009

Pros:

Works well @ nite....

Cons:

Drys up like a face mask......

wash ur face with the cleanser then apply this stuff before u goto bed....and you'll notice some changes..
March 29, 2009

Pros:

It got my sensitive skin acne free . And my face got alot softer

Cons:

forehead area got very oily and cheeks got very red from dryness.

I like the product and it works but you have to adjust the use to fit ur skin type .
March 28, 2009

Pros:

#1 If used properly, using all 3 steps once a day, skin will clear up and show a noticable improvement.
#2 Keeps bumps manageable even if user only washes face once everyday using the Renewing Cleanser.
#3 Great packaging and the price is righ

Cons:

#1- In many cases, if the toner is used more than once a day, you may experience burning or drying out of the skin.
#2- You have to use it everyday. Bumps may begin to resurface if you miss 1 day of use.

I have been using Proactiv for approximately 5 years now, and I absolutely don't think that I could feel comfortable without it. Proactiv users have to be patient in the beginning, and find what works for them in reference to the proper application. I notice when I complete all three steps at least once a day, my skin looks clear and free of bumps, with an exception to maybe a few small bumps around my hairline on my forehead where my scalp is generously mosturized. What works for me: #1- Wash face w/Renewing Cleanser #2- Wipe face w/Toner using a clean cottonball (only in areas where bumps are present) #3- Dab an eye cream or face moisturizer on eyelids,under eyes,and the corners of the eye where crows feet can possibly present a problem #4- Rub lotion on face w/ Proactiv lotion (be careful not to get lotion in the eye area) *If my face feels dry after the lotion application, I may add a face moisturizer in the areas that I need it. Example:Extra moisture aro
March 23, 2009

Pros:

made skin feel clean after use

Cons:

didt work, seemed to make acne worst!!!!

not for everyone......
March 23, 2009

Pros:

none!

Cons:

I developed a small bumpy rash around the perimeter of my face, the morning after washing with this product. By the next morning, I awoke with my eyes nearly swollen shut, my entire face red, swollen and itchy.

Horrible product!
March 22, 2009

Pros:

I have used Proactiv for about 3-4 years and I enjoy it. It depends on your skin and acne how kong it will take to cure. You can see a difference and you have to be very discipline in washing and moisturizing your face twice a day.

Cons:

YOU CAN NOT STOP USING IT BECAUSE YOU WILL BREAK OUT OVERTIME

Don't expect an overnight cure, wash and moisturize your face twice a day. AND FOR THOSE WHO HAVE DARK SPOTS I ENCOURAGE YOU TO USE THE SKIN LIGHTENING CREAM-IT WORKS!! AND ALSO THE FACE MASK YOU PUT A DOT ON THE PIMLPE OVERNIGHT IT DRIES IT UP!!!

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.