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 12, 2006

Pros:

Love everything about it. Has completely cleared up my face in the last 3 months. If I even get a pimple it is barely there for maybe a day. But NOTHING like before. I think Dan had this one completely figured out! Thanks Dan for saving my face!

Cons:

The first week it was a little dry and itchy. But I just applied a small amount and sure enough after awhile it was fine (and I have extremely dry and sensitive skin) so anyone who gives it a chance will be fine!

My face has NEVER been this clear!
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October 11, 2006

Pros:

Gets rid of the zits you have and then keeps new ones from forming.

Cons:

Does at first cause a little skin irritation but it tells all about how to address those specific issues in the brochure they send with the product for those of you who didn't read.

This sh*t works. It says that it works for most people. I guess the most people it worked for are out having a good time without their zits to post on here.
October 11, 2006
This is the only product I have found that really does work. Most people say you only need to use it for pimples, but I use it on zits too. I put it pretty much all over my face. Your face will sometimes feel a little dry after using this. There are a few things that I don't like about this product. One is the fact that it is somewhat hard to remove. I find the easiest thing is to apply it at night. In the morning, take a shower and it will easily come off. The second thing is it has bleached towels and sheets/pillows. I can't buy any new towels or sheets, because they will just get ruined. Despite these two things, I would definitely recommend this product, because it works unlike a lot of other acne medications out there.
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October 11, 2006

Pros:

has none except for the nice smell

Cons:

everything

three words: F**k You ProActiv
October 10, 2006
I have had acne for over 10 years--nothing serious enough for Accutane, but enough that it caused daily frustration. I also have sensitive skin. This is the only product that has actually worked for me. Retin-A irritated my skin; ProActiv never worked; Murad worked ok but it cost about $40 a month. This even helps against hormonal acne (chin acne) which I used to get a lot, and nothing seemed to fix. Where I used to get large, painful breakouts on my chin, now if I get any, they are small and easy to hide with light makeup. I still occassionally get a couple breakouts here and there when I am stressed, but overall, I can go out of the house without concealer on almost every day. This took awhile to kick in for good--at least a month, so stick with it. I use it with the Purpose bar and Eucerin lotion. I haven't had to replace the cleanser or lotion yet. Best value of any product I have ever used. Highly recommended.
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October 10, 2006

Pros:

Heals acne lesions and gives my skin a smoother texture

Cons:

I occassionally get small whiteheads even after being on it a while

This is a great product let me tell you when I go into a store and see one ounce BP tubes selling for 6 bucks and I see 4 times the amount selling for a few bucks more my gosh and this stuff works without the ugly white and drying....it's easy to apply and there is a good amount in there
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October 10, 2006

Pros:

Absolutely NONE.

Cons:

Doesn't work, made my skin break out into a rash...

I had a few zits and some increased oiliness during my time of the month and decided I wanted to give ProActiv a try. I tried it for exactly 3 days. The first day I noticed a marked improvement in my blemishes dried out, became less red etc. On the second day I noticed a rash on my neck (where I also used the product). I thought in was unrelated and continued using ProActiv that night as well. However, when I woke up in the morning I had tiny, almost not visable bumps in every single pore of my face. I honestly can't really see them but I can definitely feel them. They are like little hives all over my neck and face. I threw my ProActiv products away and went back to drug store products this morning. I just washed my face about 30 minutes ago with a little cleanser and am already noticing an improvement in the tiny bumps. ProActiv is the worst purchase I've ever made.
October 10, 2006

Pros:

gentle, it works!!! takes abot 2 weeks to clear skin, unbelieveable product

Cons:

you have to buy as a set each time

worth it
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October 10, 2006

Pros:

Absolutely None, PROACTIVE = SCAM

Cons:

made my skin get those reddish pimples everywhere, only used to have about 3-4 on the entire face, but the proactive results have produced acne everywhere except my forehead... rubbish product

AVOID AT ALL COSTS, i dont know whats out there that can fix my acne, but im sure as hell, going to only try what the chemist gives me, NOT GIMICKS OFF TV.
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October 10, 2006

Pros:

it did work for a while

Cons:

it stopped working the second time I tried it

this product helped clear my skin the first time I tried it but the second time it just made it worst. Now, my skin is dry and I still break out. I have scars on my chin and cheeck from these new break outs, and I had never had acne on those places before. It's disappointing and, in all honesty, it makes me feel stupid for ever beliving it would work.
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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.