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 2, 2008

Pros:

NONE

Cons:

It really didn't do anything for me

It was a waste of money!
July 27, 2008

Pros:

LIFE SAVER

Cons:

BURNS A BIT... YOU MUST USE IT AS DIRECTED

This stuff really works... just be consistent with it... believe me
July 25, 2008

Pros:

Best BP I've ever used

Cons:

Pills don't do anything at all

I started out taking both the pills and the cream. Stopped the pills after a few days because they do not work at all. HOWEVER, the BP cream is probably the best I've ever used--it cleared up my acne really fast but is a bit drying (I have oily skin anyway so it didn't make too much of a difference). After a few days of using the cream you can see a big difference.
July 23, 2008

Pros:

After the first week or so it gets worse, but after that it gets better.

Cons:

Hurts with the first use in if you haven't used it in a while, but after that it's good.

Sure, you should use it. Just don't keep using it if it only makes it worse. Your skin might not like this stuff.
July 19, 2008

Pros:

It only works for two weeks.. meaning it did clear up for two weeks..

Cons:

After the two weeks, my face started to break out like crazy.... HEEEELLLLPPPPP PLEASEEEEE....

It works for two weeks and I stated breaking out so much... Ive never had break out in the forehead and now its all over my head to my scalp.. its so sad.. i wake up everyday dreaming to have a clear beautiful face, but instead i wake up with all the acne on my face,,, help....... meeee
July 8, 2008

Pros:

Easy to apply!
Keep me acne-free!

Cons:

Nothing!

I have been using this product for 2 years now. And it works! It can be drying at first but I put more moisturizer and it's all good! :) Now, I am acne-free! Sometimes I get 1 or 2 pimples, but the treatment get rid of them really fast! Just need to be patient and stick to the regimen!
June 26, 2008

Pros:

None

Cons:

Works for the first couple weeks, then it stops. Plus it caused acne scarring which has taken over a year to fade.

Doesn't work. The combinations of chemicals is disastrous on the skin.
May 26, 2008

Pros:

nothing.

Cons:

everything about the product.

made my acne worse. i was hoping that it would be THE product to end my pimples but it actually made them more. it sucks!
May 5, 2008

Pros:

Pleasant scent, easily available, pretty packaging

Cons:

Expensive, may not work for you, causes problems you NEVER had before.

I bought ProActiv last Sunday and used it per the directions: 1x a day for 3 days, 2x Thursday, Friday, Saturday. Thursday my face began to itch; I figured it was allergies- it's springtime, lots of pollen & all. Saturday, my sister asked if I had scratched my face because I had red, itchy bumps on my jawline & cheeks.(very red to be visible on me as I'm very brown) Today, I woke up with medium sized, itchy, painful bumps that were horrible! They look like they might have been pimples w/o skin on top, basically open sores!! I washed with a glycerin soap, dabbed on peroxide and I'm hoping they go away. I have to go to work tomorrow in an elementary school looking like I was smacked with a boar bristle brush!
April 1, 2008

Pros:

Affordable, reliable

Cons:

A bit drying, but my skin's texture evened out within a week

I love these products. I've tried many different brands, including some prescription skin care regimens and I've had the most luck with this product line. My skin is even and my breakouts have decreased by about 90%.

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.