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
November 18, 2008

Pros:

ummm...the toner was okay

Cons:

dried out my skin, made me break out horribly even after using it for a month. smell!! yuckkkk

the first few days i was using this product it worked okay..but i was drying my skin out. then after a week of use i started breaking out like crazy, i thought that it was the "getting worse before it gets better" phase, but nope...i kept using it for a month and every single day i would wake up with a new pimple on my face. The pimpled were cystic and painful, and the left horrible scars. Then finally i stopped using it and started using clinique acne soultions and now my skin finally looks decent! my doctor was even like ohhh you shouldnt have used proactiv its not good. yah i didnt work for me... :(
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October 26, 2008

Pros:

Is the only product that has worked for me - ever.
Is very affordable
IT WORKS!!

Cons:

Dries up your skin
You feel a burning sensation when first using this product - although this does go away after the first few weeks

I have tried pretty much every spot treatment out there and Quinoderme is the only one, i repeat, the ONLY ONE that has worked for me! Yes, it did make my skin exceedingly dry and flaky for the first few weeks, but you can use this treatment and moisturise which i find balances out my skin to a perfect level! I would recommend this product to anyone and everyone that suffers from acne, it is a life saver!
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August 12, 2008

Pros:

My skin felt smooth in most areas

Cons:

It did get rid of my acne.

I waited a long time to get enough money to buy proactive and I was disappointed because it didn't help and after the 30 day trial they end up sending me a 60 day. I didn't even know that I was going to get another one. My skin didn't get cleared up. It made my skin really dry.
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July 28, 2008

Pros:

starts clearing up skin as quickly as in the first day.

Cons:

You have to use less cleanser in order for it to last. If you have really sensitive skin it will irritate it.

It clears up acne really quickly but the cleanser runs out before the entire package is finished and and you have to buy the entire package over just for the cleanser. Pointless. It works fast but Neutrogena should sell the product seperately.
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July 28, 2008

Pros:

nothing

Cons:

everything

bleached skin made my skin worst dermatologist told me to stop using it since it is so harsh on skin
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July 27, 2008

Pros:

Mild reduction in acne

Cons:

It takes too long. It does not dry out skin. It does not work!

I have oily skin and mild to moderate acne. Recently, I was getting frustrated so I bit the bullet and ordered proactiv. After first using it, I didn't have results. I called them and they sent me the extra strength formula. To my dismay this didn't work either. Still got the occassional whiteheads. So I was angry. I immediately canceled. Now I use a Clean and Clear face soap twice a day that is 10% benzoyl peroxide and it works great so far. I am sure proactiv works for some, but there commercials make it seem like it is for all and it clearly is not. The products use the same ingredients that you can get over the counter.
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July 11, 2008

Pros:

I love this product. It doesnt dry out your skin and attacks pimples right away. it is especially good when you see a pimple coming, it usually stops it right in its tracks! by far the best product I have ever tried. This is by product for life now

Cons:

it bleaches fabric.

I LOVE IT! IF YOU ARE UNSURE IF YOU WANT TO BUY THIS PRODUCT OR NOT...GO FOR IT, IT WILL BE THE BEST DECISION YOU MAKE. THANK YOU DAN!!!!!!
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June 10, 2008

Pros:

None!

Cons:

Even after an ok patch test with the 5% cream, it left me with chemical burns + swelling on my face that after 5 days and medical advice I am still waiting for symptoms to calm down!!

Never Again!!!
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May 28, 2008

Pros:

Very affordable, works great.

Cons:

None.

I have been using this now for 2 years, an it still works excellent. I love how soft, and clear it makes my face.
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April 5, 2008

Pros:

Can wear under makeup, clears skin fast, no strong scent,best price I've found for such quality, and super fast shipment.

Cons:

Not available in stores.

I absolutely love this! It keeps me clear (along with bha and jojoba oil), doesn't dry me out too much, can be worn under makeup, and arrives the day after it's sent (I'm in CA). I like that it's 2.5% to avoid excess dryness/flaking. The price is super affordable, considering the amount you get. Love!!
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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.