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
November 24, 2007

Pros:

I had immediate results and I loved it!

Cons:

But after using it for about 9 months, it doesn't get better. It doesn't get worse or better. You just get stuck in a rut, but it's more tolerable than before.

It did not change my skin type too much. I've always had oily skin and now it's less oily. It helped a lot. It actually is the only product I've tried though. When I use proactiv i also take this sulfur based pill called Clearac ([link removed]) and THAT made all the difference in the world. in combonation it worked the best. Try clearac!!
November 24, 2007

Pros:

Clears up acne quickly!

Cons:

Causes dry skin, but worth it!

I've been using this product for a few days and I've seen a dramatic difference. I've tried ProActiv and prescription medications, but this has been the best product so far.
November 17, 2007

Pros:

Cleared up and helped to heal existing acne

Cons:

Wish you could get bigger sizes, like 50 instead of 28 pads...

Been having a probem with mild/moderate acne. Since summer it's like a new breakout every day. Within 2 days of using these pads, no new breakouts, small zits are gone and others are healing. Not the only thing I use, but the only thing I've started using recently so I have to think that its helping a lot. Not harsh, gentle on skin.
November 14, 2007

Pros:

probably works better than anything i've tried. very affordable, large quantities that last awhile. you get a lot of bang for your buck, which is always appreciated.

Cons:

it's not an overnight miracle cure. not sold in stores. shipping costs.

it works pretty well but it's no miracle cure and you do have to be diligent with the program. the quantities are large, well priced and last awhile. you don't feel like you're getting ripped off. dan seems to really care about healing acne, not making a fast buck and is good about taking feedback and improving his products so they can be the best they can be at the best possible price.
November 12, 2007

Pros:

Works well
Consistency feels good
Helped clear up acne

Cons:

Price

This product works well. My regimen consists of washing my face with a purpose bar, and using this as my BP treatment. My skin type is pretty normal. It is not oily, but I still break out a lot. After a week of use this product has helped with new pimples, and started clearing up the old pimples within a few days. Will buy this product again.
November 12, 2007

Pros:

Good customer service when I returned the product because it did absolutely nothing.

Cons:

DIDN'T WORK! Expensive, wanted to always keep it hidden because I didn't want others to know I bought an infomercial acne regiment. Dried my skin out slightly, definitely needed another moisturizer-another expense.

Not worth it at all. Don't buy it.
October 13, 2007

Pros:

Ok, well I use this as a combo with my cleanser. I mix it with my face wash, as I don't like the feeling of keeping it on my face all day, as it dries it out.
I got the idea from my brother's bp face wash (rx only) and it has worked well.

Cons:

Dries.

If you use it with a cleanser and don't keep it on it works good.
October 9, 2007

Pros:

The products are very user friendly and smell nice.

Cons:

Can have the ability to dru out skin on face as well as other areas.

I used Proactiv forquite a few months, and in the beginning it seemed to make my face so smooth and appear to begin looking more clear with exception of blemishes. Then I started to notice that my face was getting the bumps back on it, and also I noticed that my right hand had dry scaly-like places on it(which was the dominant hand that I would use to put on products). I stopped for a coupleof days to see if my hand would get better, and my face broke out even worse!! Now I have more bumps than I did before I started. I am at a loss because I don't want to continue this treatment at this rate! Maybe it works for some, but definitely not me!
October 9, 2007

Pros:

Sometimes works.

Cons:

Often times doesn't.

I think that if you really stick to Dan's regimen this stuff will work for you. However, if you don't want to be forever globbing on chemicals of expensive (and potentially damaging to your skin), I would recommend finding a different approach.
September 30, 2007

Pros:

Everything!!
I love the cool, refreshing feeling of the toner on my skin!

Cons:

The cleanser smells a little

I have only used this product twice (It's been on less than 24 hrs) but I already notice a huge difference in my skin. My skin has a more even color and my zits are already fading. by the way- it looks expensive- but for that price it lasts for 3 months!!!

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.