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
June 29, 2009

Pros:

It has noticably started to clear my skin within a short period of time, in conjunction with other prescriptions. I like the consistency of the cleanser (foamy) and the cloths seem to exfoliate the skin somewhat and make it very soft.

Cons:

None, really. I Have fairly sensitive skin and this never really gave me any reaction other than slight redness that went away quickly.

I use these 6% bezoyl peroxide cloths in addition to Differin .3% gel at night and a minocycline antibiotic. My dermatologist gave me a ton of samples so I haven't had to actually pay anything, but apparently it's pretty expensive. I have tried every OTC product and many prescriptions in the past and nothing has worked better than this!
June 27, 2009

Pros:

none

Cons:

dehydrates skin, burns, time consuming

i have eczema all my life and the benzol perioxide worsen my eczema
June 23, 2009

Pros:

This stuff really works for my son's face. I can tell when he's been faithfully using it and the results are outstanding. Have been using the Kick A$$ for three years or so and the quality and results are consistent.

Cons:

If not washed away completely, it WILL stain sheets and towels!

I recommend the product wholeheartedly.
June 22, 2009

Pros:

While I could still use this without allergic reactions, this product was great. It's the only thing that got rid of all the small bumps that were covering my forehead and basically the only product that gave me smooth skin. Works very quickly, too.

Cons:

Dries out skin, causes redness and apparently I've become allergic to it early this year, because when I started taking nasal medication the bumps came back, but using this product made me get horrible reactions and I can't use it anymore.

If you're not allergic to it and you don't overuse it, it's a brilliant product, and for some (like me) the only real solution to clear skin. Problem is that it's very strong and if you're allergic to it (also like me), you have to give up on it. This product is definitely worth trying, just be prepared for the possibility that it will cause a negative reaction to your skin (large scaly patches of redness).
June 18, 2009

Pros:

None

Cons:

causes redness and itching when I woke up the next morning it affected my cheeks but does not improve my skin in anyway when apply elsewhere.

I used this product for one week straight trying to get rid of my pimples but doesnt work until I apply it on my cheeks the redness starts to appear. This product really stinks. Sad to say is I used to be a fan of clean and clear until I used this product. The old products were better but not this crap. I even called the company and they couldnt give me any advice in getting rid of my problem except they told me to call my doctor.
June 3, 2009

Pros:

Works in 4 weeks just as it says. Love the foam it's soft and helps x2

Cons:

Worsens during first week. Tonic stings a little and lotion bothers a bit.

Your acne will worsen during the first week but 90% of your acne will be gone in 4 weeks and completly gone after 2 months or less!!!!!! BUT LISTEN IT WILL ONLY WORK IF YOU USE IT CONSTANTLY AND READ DIRECTIONS OR IT WILL BE MESSED UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So buy it IF you are going to use it CONSTANTLY !!!!!!!
May 30, 2009

Pros:

-Works very well at first

Cons:

- Damages skin
- Stops working
- Irritates skin and is expensive

Bottom line. If you have money to waste and want to be clear for a month, then go back to where you were before, buy it
May 28, 2009

Pros:

Clears a bit of acne. Easy to apply and use. Made my skin soft when I first started using it.

Cons:

Drys out my skin really bad. Stings your eyes if you apply it to close.

Well this product is not recommended for senstive skin ( But I don't think I have sensitive skin ) But still just maybe try it and see if it works for your skin.
May 22, 2009

Pros:

The small beads exfoliate your skin and leave it smooth

Cons:

Never cleared up my skin

Shortly after I began using Proactiv my skin cleared up a little, then it all came back and now my skin is worse than before I started. I am now trying Differin.
May 19, 2009

Pros:

This is a good cream. It cleared my skin up and removed the black spots from my recently popped pimples. My skin looks ah-mazing! And i used it yesterday too. my first time ever. =)

Cons:

It makes you skin ah-little itchy. May cause a little dryness. You have to use moisturizer such as Neutrogena Moisturizer.

It works ah-mazingly 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.