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 28, 2009

Pros:

Nothing.

Cons:

Smell in the 2nd step.

It doesnt work. Horrible. Waste of money.
May 17, 2009

Pros:

it tasted good on my potatoes....hahah just kidding im using it right now i dont really have acne i have pimples and it works, use it. use it. use it.

Cons:

i get really anxious waiting to see what its gonna do.

its awesome.
January 13, 2009

Pros:

Same results as proactiv for 1/2 the cost+ no shopping and handeling.

Cons:

For the first week or so you break out, just like proactiv.

This is the best product i've found so far
September 20, 2008

Pros:

It dries up acne.

Cons:

No effects anymore after using for a few years. Only works for a while.

Depends
August 21, 2008

Pros:

none

Cons:

Chemical burn to my face.

Terrible product. It left me in a lot of pain and made my acne worse. It burned my face on top of it
July 18, 2008

Pros:

nothing, its the worst, you know why? cause it doesn't help. All it does is dry up your skin

Cons:

everything that leads to worsoning acne

don't waste your money on this product
July 13, 2008

Pros:

it i very good this is the best product i have ever used you should definetly gie it!!

Cons:

it makes ur skin a bit dry but juust put some cream and you will be fine

the best hepls reduce and clear in 2 months you shoul try it out!!!
June 5, 2008

Pros:

none

Cons:

The pills made my acne so much worse than it was before

I kept using my own bp cream but i took the pills for 2 weeks and i got so many pimples. dont buy this crap.
June 4, 2008

Pros:

None that I can see

Cons:

I only used this product one day and the next day when I woke up my left eye was really swollen and my skin felt so dry. Plus when I was putting on the product it smelled so bad, like vomit or something.

It may work for others but it doesn't for me, bottom line is I'm never gonna touch this stuff ever again.
April 3, 2008

Pros:

It makes my face feel amazing. You guys are idiotic.

Cons:

Absolutely none.

Amazing :)

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.