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
July 30, 2009

Pros:

I've used it a few different times over the years, it seems like someone always has a tube. I usually don't apply consistently, and only dab a tiny amount directly onto the blemish. I've never had any dry skin, but I have noticed much improvement.

Cons:

None that I can think of.

We're a "fast" nation. Nobody wants to wait for anything (instant oatmeal, microwavable meals, fast food, 30 minute delivery, 60 minute tire gaurentee, etc). Well, I hate to break the news, but healing (including acne) takes time. Side Note: Those bitching about the price, it's called "ON THE SPOT" for a reason, not to be used over your entire face... that's why it's drying out doufus! I get huge dime-sized painful blemishes under on my neck around my jawbone line, and outside of taking oral medication for 1 or 2 break outs a month (which is ridiculous so I don't take the medicine), this product does wonders at reducing the size and severity at the detection of one of these monsters. I rated my acne moderately severe because I only get a few blemishes, but when I do, it's pretty severe! haha
July 16, 2009

Pros:

I have the sensative skin formula and for some reason after everytime I use these products (I use it every day and night) my face is burning and turns all red! I have been using it for 3 days and I am seeing no results! What is going on? HELP!

Cons:

NONE

It even says that you will see results in 3 days and that's exactly how long i've been using it for and still no results. I feel very discouraged! Should I keep using it even though it is severly causing a burning sensation after everytime I use it? Or should I just give up? I know I have sensative skin, and that's the reason I got the sensative formula. I'm tired of hiding behind heavy makeup, I just want clear skin! What should I do?!
June 26, 2009

Pros:

-Works really well
- In a creamy base so not harsh
- Value for money (only £3.80 per 50g tube)

Cons:

- Need to purchase in a pharmacy over here in the UK ( not a big deal though)

I am using Quinoderm 5 with the regimen and my skin is almost clear with a few red marks and light brown scars. As we don't get a variety of benzoyl peroxide creams/gels here, Quinoderm was the cheapest and probably most gentle BP I have used and much better than Panoxyl which was horrendous and dried me up like a prune or even Neutrogena. As it's in a creamy base, it's easy to rub in and blends great with most moisturising lotions and I just apply my makeup over it, unlike Panoxyl which emusifies and turns into white gloop over my face. I highly recommend it to folks who live here in the UK .
June 14, 2009

Pros:

If you use it twice a day i garauntee that your spots will calm down within hours and disappear completely with continued use. This really is almost too good to be true-it works so well and it is so cheap.

Cons:

The cream can at times be very drying leaving you with 'face dandruff' but this usually disappears within a day. Who cares if it can bleach fabrics if it totally prevents spots!

You simply cannot buy a more effective, inexpensive, non-prescription acne treatment. I cannot understand how more people aren't talking about/using this product-it's just amazingly good.
May 16, 2009

Pros:

been using this for about four days & i have definitely seen a difference. i'm on the dianette pill & have been for two months - been told to wait another one before that starts taking affect. the cream has been a life saver.

Cons:

i have quite an itchy face & my face can get quite dry. however use a good moisturizer & you'll be fine. :)

your face going quite red after you've applied it can be expected when you first start using it so dont worry! this cream has been the first thing to work for me in months.
May 15, 2009

Pros:

only product that has worked, cleared up all my spots after 2 months.

Cons:

dryness at first but goes after a month. when you start using it start with small amounts and a good moisturiser to lessen the dryness.

it really works! i now use this once or twice a day around the nose area and i haven't had spots in months. if i forget to use a for a few nights i will get one or two but they go quickly.
April 6, 2009

Pros:

nice consistency, no harsh smells, ok price point

Cons:

Screwed my skin up. I develeoped dermatitis from Benzoyl P. Ive been trying for a year to get my skin back. I used to be ashamed of my skin, now im in disgust! Sometiems i think about suicide. This stuff is cancerous,drys out your skin,destroys cells

Skin desease is something from the inside going haywire. a chemcial ointment cant be the answer
April 3, 2009

Pros:

have been using it for 2 weeks already,so far,no improvement.i even have new red cysts,some filled with blood

after reading so much hype on this product on this website,i thought to give it a try,however,haven't seen no improvement yet. i even have more red cystic acne on forehead,cheeks,jaw and neck :( unlike other people,i m not having overdried skin, after using it. hopefully,it ll change but dont think so. just another product promising a lot but not doing much as of yet
January 7, 2009

Pros:

Absolutely nothing.

Cons:

HORRIBLE AVOID AT ALL COSTS.
RUINS YOUR SKIN.
IT MAY ABATE ACNE BUT ANY CLEAR SKIN YOU HAVE WILL BE DESTROYED. AVOID AT ALL COSTS!!!!!!

BURN IT ALL
January 6, 2009

Pros:

nice wash - not too drying

Cons:

PRICEY! with insurance i paid, $40 - too steep for my taste, but it works. also, stinging, and redness

i use this in the morning and at night. it works - i use the 5% hydrating wash in conjunction with .05% tazorac and i haven't any complaints as of yet.

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.