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 27, 2009

Pros:

It works for about a month.

Cons:

Then it stops working and leaves the skin dry, and itchy. It leaves you with worse acne then you had before! This product is not good at all.

Don't waste your money! This product is horrible! I'm tired of the stupid commercials about it!
May 30, 2009

Pros:

Smoothens skin, reduces acne, smells nice, it's awesome so far.

Cons:

Costs a ton. They don't really give you much for the price, but I'm desperate for a cure so I will pay anything. As long as it works!

I've been using it for about three days now and I already see a small difference. You have to be consistent with it you guys, otherwise it won't work. I am desperate to find a cure and it seems as if this is the cure. It's very professional. It makes you feel fresh and squeeky clean.
May 2, 2009

Pros:

clears up zits fast, SOMETIMES

Cons:

dryness, & sometimes creation of new pimples

its a buck at the dollor store in the states, worth a try .
April 24, 2009

Pros:

it smells nice!

Cons:

it cost me like 25$

i just started using it, my acne isn't that severe. but i have really oily skin so it causes me to have random break outs. so let's hope this works?! :D
March 29, 2009
it is far to drying for skin, causing more breakouts
March 3, 2009

Pros:

none

Cons:

doesn't work realy

not dat good
January 19, 2009

Pros:

This helped my acne so much at first, as im reading others say this too

Cons:

Now Imostarting to notice, big painful pimples.
and spreading

Bottom line is its all advertising and its so discouraging, this sucks,
January 6, 2009

Pros:

The mask cleared up a couple of pimples overnight like magic and the system was easy to use and potent. The toner and cream were very pleasant and left my skin feeling soft and clean.

Cons:

after two days of use i took a short walk and it just so happened to be sunny. My skin started burning and though it had initially been getting clearer, by the end of the day my skin was covered with blemishes. I only used it for a few more days

i learned that sunscreen is very important with this product. it made my usually normal skin very sensitive. it was the worst i've broken out in my life and it took a long time to clear up. My roommate still used it though and she's never had a problem. Im very outdoorsy and usually don't wear sunscreen and previously had very normal skin. though it had a great first impression it changed my skin drastically and still it's more sensitive than it's been my whole life. it just wasn't for me. but i know and have seen it do wonders on others.
November 13, 2008

Pros:

Clears skin, affordable, generous amount of solutions, amazing website with testimonials and instructional videos.

Cons:

The first time i ramped up the BP, got a chemical burn on my face and felt like the worst sunburn ever, but after that never had a problem. Products will bleach hand and face towels.

Excellent Regimen, stick to the steps.
November 12, 2008

Pros:

.

Cons:

it is sh*t
takes colour out of clothes
:(

.

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.