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
March 4, 2013

Pros:

Dries up pimples fast!
Doesn't dry out skin
Helps pimples heal faster than any other spot treatment I've tried

Cons:

Sometimes can purge skin from being so strong, which can cause other pimples. But that's usually only once in a blue moon.
Has seemed to stop working after three years :(
Sometimes ineffective on cysts

This is the best spot treatment I've tried! I have used so many OTC treatments, home remedies, and a couple prescription treatments, and this has been the most effective. I have oily skin that can't afford to be stripped or will obviously overproduce oils! This does not leave me flaky, and dries pimples out without being damaging to my skin. I am sad that lately it hasn't really been helping my pimples. I haven't broken out this bad in years, but I currently have 13 active pimples on one side of my face. I think my Garnier bb cream is to blame, but that's a whole different review. I recommend this to anyone that struggles with whiteheads, or hormonal acne.
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February 25, 2013

Pros:

Cleared spots in 4 nights
Doesn't sting as much as other creams
No new spots
Also cleared blackheads

Cons:

Stings a tiny bit
Can be slightly drying

I have used creams such as epiduo from the doctor on my moderate acne and found a lot of them worsened my spite and gave me cysts but this is amazing! My skin is virtually clear apart from one on my cheek which is tiny and should be gone tomorrow. I couldn't be happier with the results, I wasn't expecting to see any difference really and was hesitant to use it after my previous experience with acne creams but this stuff is amazing. I only use a very small amount about twice a day after washing my face
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January 1, 2013

Pros:

Cleared my acne within 5 days
Doesn't sting or irritate my skin
Really cheap
Doesn't need a prescription

Cons:

Quite drying

I've been suffering from moderate acne since my mid teens. Around 2 years ago, I went to my GP as it was getting worse and it was really started to effect my confidence. I had a lot of spots and bumps on my forehead and cheeks area as well as my chin. Picking and squeezing them didn't help much either, leaving so many scars behind. She prescribed me Duac Once Daily Gel with 10% benzoyl peroxide which was amazing. I was applying the gel at night and every morning I'd see an improvement. A week later, all of my spots were literally gone as well as the scars and marks! I was really impressed. The only problem was that the gel would expire after 2 months and it was advised that you put it in the refrigerator. Anyway, about a month ago my acne has returned. Usually I'd get the occasion spot when its that that time of the month, but this time there were so many and looking angrier than ever. I've been using Quinoderm 10% BP cream and I'm ecstatic at the results. I've only been using it for 5 days and already, 85% of my spots have cleared up! What's even more amazing is how dirt cheap it is..I purchased it for like that £3. I use a small amount only at the areas which need it and I only apply the cream at night. I'm so happy and I'll continue using it till they've it's all clear.
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November 6, 2012
Product used: The Regimen

Pros:

- cleared up my minor blemishes on my face literally in a week
- shaving method acne.org lets you know is awesome
- don't need to ex-foliate anymore the regime is the perfect method for my skin

Cons:

when applying the moisturiser for the first two weeks it had a slight burning sensation.

nothing else

following the method exactly as written and using the shaving method has worked so well with my skin its crazy. my skin is great and have finally found a method that suites me perfectly. i used to have tiny pustules and ance around my mouth/when shaving......now nothing after only a month and half of use. Highly recommend.
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June 19, 2012

Pros:

None

Cons:

Proactiv did not clear the acnes on my son's face. Also, I cancelled before receiving another shipment, but the y sent the items anyway and charged me. Then, I returned that item but was still charged the next month without any product being sent to me because they said they have not received the returned items. They said they will be charging again next month until the first return was received. This is bs. They are charging for items I'm not receiving at all.

Horrible product and business model!!!
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June 18, 2012

Pros:

It works! This product is a dream for adult acne.

I developed cystic acne around my mouth and chin at 24, two years ago. I constantly had three-six large cysts - before one would disappear another would come up in almost the very same spot. I went on Diane 35 to combat the acne and began using prescription benzoyl peroxide creams. Diane 35 reduced the size and number of the cysts, but I still broke out. I went off the Diane 35 and looked for other solutions. To my amazement, since I began using Clinique my skin has completely cleared! It looks better now than that of my non-acne prone friends. My scars are finally healing and I feel confident enough to go out without makeup on! It is important to use all three steps. I apply the acne solutions mosturizer only to those areas that are prone to breakouts. This helps to reduce the cost of the product too. At first my skin was too dry, but I spoke to the Clinique rep and they recommended that I use the dramatically different moisturizing gel on top of the acne solutions mosturizer if I was drying out. Since my skin is now totally clear, I use this all over my face twice every day as a fourth step. While my breakouts were still disappearing, I used the it only as needed to prevent dryness. I think the price is a small one to pay for great skin! If you wait until Clinique bonus time to stock up, you get lots of free makeup. Clinique is also great about returns and stands by their products, so if this doesn't work for you, you can take it back. One final thing: I like the soap bar a lot more than the foaming cleanser. It does a better job of taking off my makeup, it's cheaper and it lasts longer too. I've been using my current bar for six months and I've still got another month or two to go.
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June 8, 2012

Pros:

-Cleared my light/moderate acne
- Worked VERY quickly in doing so
-truly my miracle last resort

Cons:

-stings a little
-Expensive
-DO NOT order online
-Terrible customer service and sketchy sales tactics

I was VERY skeptical in trying Proactiv, mainly because my skin was never really that bad. I had small bumps all over my forehead and sides of my face that drove me crazy. I gave in to trying it after my cheeks started breaking out while on a 3 week vacation. It was puffy and painful and I needed a miracle. Anyways, I ordered it online, which I don't recommend. There is NOTHING that says ordering once equates to a subscription... they also charged my credit card an extra 8 dollars from what the order total came to, and still couldn't explain this after speaking with 3 different representatives. I've been using it for about 4 days now, and the first thing to go was the icky cheek acne. The small bumps started disappearing and my forehead is ALMOST clear! It's amazing, I feel so much better. I reaaaalllyyy enjoy popping/picking way too much, and the Proactiv solution seems to speed the healing once I get the gunk out (especially on the cheeks). I've heard so many mixed opinions on Proactiv that I had to try it out for myself. For my mild case, it worked wonders. I can see why others would disagree if their acne was more severe, had sensitive skin etc, etc. It is a really harsh product, but it's doing its job for me, so for now I am satisfied.
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February 12, 2012

Pros:

OHMYGOD
loved this product
it smoothes down bumps
it smells great
doesnt leave skin dry or irratate skin and i have super sensitive skin

Cons:

NONE !!!!!!!!!

I am only 13 but my face is covered in acne it works like nothing i have ever tried but i havent really ever tried a really good quality product. All iv tries are the stuff off the shelves at the drugstore I RECCOMEND THIS PRODUCT TO ANYBODY AND EVERYBODY!!!!!
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February 11, 2012

Pros:

Cleared my mild acne throughout my 20's and I had flawless skin for years!

Cons:

My skin has changed in my 30's and this product just doesn't work on my skin like it use to. I'm getting cystic acne and Proactiv products aren't doing anything for it.

It's a great product and I had amazing results for a good decade. But I've changed or the product has (probably both) because it just doesn't do the trick anymore. But I still recommend it to young people. I seriously had AMAZING results and got compliments on my skin all the time. I say give it shot!
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February 6, 2012

Pros:

Clear pimples, whiten skin, soft skin, reduce oil,
clear blackheads.

Cons:

dry skin a bit. ( most acne products does that)

I just use this product for a month. However, i can recognize the huge difference after 1 month. i didnt have alot pimple, just 3 or 4. Before using this, i had tried most products in store: clean&clear, neutrogena, acnefree.... nothing can compare to Clearasil vanishing cream!! Honestly, before i bought vanishing, i read all review and it seems bad so i decided to buy tinted one instead. 2 months later, pimples and whiteheads still stay on my face, only get rid of few blackhead on nose. therefore i try vanishing. First day using it, my face burned a bit, i got red mark on area where i put it on. Next day, red mark and red pimples are gone. and the important thing that make me love this product is smoothen my skin. all tiny dot on face are disappeared. Hope clearasil company keep producing this vanishing cream.
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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.