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 5, 2008

Pros:

leaves a cool tingling sensation, prevents breakouts

Cons:

the benzoyl peroxide bleaches fabrics

i have pretty oily skin that is prone to breakouts, so this is a really good product for me. cleans well and tingles.
August 5, 2008

Pros:

It works really well its greater than neutrogena and clearisil and proactiv

Cons:

none

i would recommend this product to anybody it works better than anything else
August 4, 2008

Pros:

Doesn't leave a layer of white when it dries, heals acne without excessive dryness

Cons:

Makeup doesn't go over it too smoothly, esp. when there's a thick layer; bleaches stuff, of course. Use white pillowcases!

This is, by far, the BEST BP cream you can buy. I used to buy the store brand 5% or 10% BP, but it always scorched my skin, leaving me with not only acne, but a red lobster face and neck as well. This cream is gentle and dries clear. If you want to wear it under makeup, just make sure not to use as much BP as you would after your nighttime cleansing.
July 30, 2008

Pros:

It works.

Cons:

It doesn't not work.

It works.
July 14, 2008

Pros:

clearing of the skin

Cons:

runny lotion and smells weird

it's a great product but for me i combined proactiv and acne free i think you should pick what's best for you between the systems because some parts will work extremely well for you and some won't for me i switched the lotions and all i have left now are the dark spots which will eventually fade
July 11, 2008

Pros:

It makes your skin feel so clean and fresh. I works pretty well, my skin may never be perfect, but it helps a lot. The 2nd and 3rd step run out so fast though! The refining mask is defiantely my favorite!

Cons:

If you forget to use it for just one night, you just might be surprised about how much you break out.

The refining mask is an essential for overnight spot treatment, and if you start using Proactiv, try not to stop even for just one night.
July 10, 2008

Pros:

To me it really works cause i have oily skin and my face is starting to really clear up

Cons:

nothing

It takes my acne away and my dark spots are getting lighter
July 8, 2008

Pros:

None

Cons:

Didn't do a thing.

I used it when it was first shown as an informercial on TV - so long ago that they didn't have a star to peddle it. Didn't do a thing - waste of money.
July 5, 2008

Pros:

works great!

Cons:

smells kinda bad & lotion sux n this product kinda stings

i used dis product n finally im free!! but i used acne free SEVERE n i used the pro-activ repairing lotion instead of the one they gave me n its da best thing EVER!!
July 3, 2008
I don't understand why this doesn't work for so many people. it has made my skin completely bump free for almost two years. it is slowly fading away marks and hopefully with the help of aha, they will be gone soon. although this is a godsend for my acne, it tends to leave my skin oily unless i use the correct moisurizer

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.