Topical Antibacterial
Reviews
3.5
20757 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
October 16, 2006

Pros:

Feels great - smooth, goes on easily, isn't too thick or thin.
I've really seen a difference in my skin - I have mildish acne but it gets worse around my period. However this hasn't happened since I've been using it.

Cons:

My skin is a little bit dry, but not as bad as it has been in the past and I haven't even tried using a moisturizer yet, so I'm not worried. It doesn't smell great, but it's not terrible.

I've had acne for probably four or five years, and it's been a constant source of embarrassment/irritation to me. My doctor had been saying that BP was the only thing that works, but I hadn't been able to find anything less than 10%, which was way too harsh for my skin. I'm going to be using this product indefinitely.
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October 16, 2006

Pros:

Cleared Skin for the most part took a couple weeks

Cons:

Still have some breakouts of Cystic pimples, and blackheads, also scarring from past breakouts very visible

if its this or Proactive get this.
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October 16, 2006

Pros:

It seems to work.

Cons:

Unpleasant smell and quite pricey for the amount.

I've only used it for 2 weeks, along with my boyfriend. We already finished one box and on our second box. It only comes with 28 pads along with a price tag of $7.99. If I can recall, we have already finished a box and halfway with our other. On the bright side, my boyfriend agrees that it is working, but mostly it is convenient. As of me, I have to agree with him. My skin seems to be clearing up. By the way, the smell is not too pleasant.
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October 16, 2006

Pros:

it made my face feel nice afterwards...and i thought it worked for a couple of days.

Cons:

but a couple of days after using it i realized it's too strong for my semi-sensitive skin. my skin turned bumpy and dry.

use if your skin is normal. but not if it's sensitive.
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October 16, 2006

Pros:

Works for a little while...

Cons:

It dries out skin and can trigger MORE zits after a while...loses its momentum!

The product dries out skin which can trigger even MORE problems...you're much better off using an over the counter product!! PROACTIV IS HOLLYWOOD HYPED!!!!
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October 16, 2006

Pros:

Works very well as long as you are very consistent.

Cons:

The price, but I'm willing to pay for it.

ProActive works!! You HAVE to use it EXACTLY as directed! I use it twice a day. I only use my ring and pinky fingers to apply the cleanser..go lightly on the skin and keep it moist!! Do not miss a step. I have found the the key to clear skin with this product is consistency!! I can't emphisize this enough. Don't stop because you don't see results right away..it's different for everyone..give it a chance. Oh, and the blotter sheets work great and so does the mattifying gel.
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October 15, 2006

Pros:

none

Cons:

Worked great the first few times but then it just made it get worse and worse and it keeps breaking out in the same areas over and over.

SUCKS, to expensive, not effective. The best things I have used to date is: 1) Limit fast food, soda, fried food, etc 2) use what you find at CVS, Genovese, etc. I find that this "Clean & Clear" 10% Benozel peroxide works great except its very conspicious because dosent rub into the skin very well.
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October 15, 2006

Pros:

suck

Cons:

dry

dont use this!!
October 15, 2006

Cons:

Not only did it not clear up my face, it made my face dry out & about 30mins after I used it my face would peel. When I called them about it, they said I would need the 'stronger' system & wanted me to pay even more money!

Not worth the price. My clearsil wash does more
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October 15, 2006

Pros:

Amazing!!! My face has cleared up. I am so thankful. I don't have to hide out anymore. I used ProActiv for 2 years when it *stopped* working. Then for several years I struggled with my complexion UNTIL I discovered this regimen. Now my face is clear!

Cons:

This regimen takes alot of time. But of course, it's worth it.

If you are trying to decide whether or not to try this regimen - do it!!! I want to tell everyone I meet that has acne to try this regimen. Acne is such a horrible thing to live with. And you don't have to. :-)
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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.