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 23, 2006

Pros:

It really clears you up, gives your skin an even tone, smells clean, and has made my skin very soft!

Cons:

A bit pricey, and I don't like to use the repairing lotion twice a day, it leaves a strange film, so I only use it at night. I use Cetaphil lotion for the day time, it does a better job of moisturizing.

I've been struggling with mild to moderate acne for about 8 years, and I had pretty much given up on trying to fix it. I've been using the reparing lotion as a spot treatment for a while, I got it from a friend. But I just recently got the whole kit, and my skin has cleared up in a week! I know that everyone says it stops working at a certain point, but I think if you use it correctly and change it up once in a while, it can work for you. I know a lot of people who this has worked for. It has given my skin a really nice glow...especially after using the mask!
October 20, 2006

Pros:

I've used this almost every day, twice a day, for around 4 years. I had mild acne beforehand, and it did seem to help. My skin felt smoother, and it cleared up all my whiteheads, even though I still have around 2 slight breakouts a month.

Cons:

Didn't get rid of the blackheads. The 3rd step always lasts way longer than the 1st and 2nd step, and the 3rd expires earlier.

A very good product to try. Try it for around a month, see how it works on your skin. I'd say if it doesn't get any better within a month, don't bother using it anymore. (If you're a girl and you seem to have breakouts before/after/during your periods, monitor how well proactive effects you at different times during the month, if at all!) This product is VERY, VERY good if you want to simply get into a routine every day that will at least slightly help your skin. I helped me to get into a routine that helped my skin a lot.
October 20, 2006

Pros:

proactiv works on miild acne- that's about it. that's the only pro. the people from proactiv don't take into consideration that not everyone has the same acne, and that not everyone will be helped by BP alone.

Cons:

face had more oil on it, the toner did remove SOME of the blemishes. the acne cleanser was too rough on my skin- and the clarifying lotion only made my skin oilier.

bottom line? don't touch your face. don't touch it no matter what. even when you're in class, at work bored, and want to rest on something? don't rest on your hands, DON'T touch your breakouts, i know it's tempting, to "check" how they're doing, if they're gone- NO. NO, NO. it's human nature to touch your eyes, your nose, and your mouth. THAT'S why we get sick. now imagine all that crap on your face? I'm still a teen, and I'm using Murad right now, as a last resort. I was one of those people that proactiv didnt work for, for whatever bloody reason. But I just thank that Im not one of those people that got cystic acne from using this product. I would've killed someone.
October 19, 2006

Pros:

It helps with mild acne.

Cons:

Does not help with major acne.

I have been using Poractive for almost five years. I just turned 30 and I am still breaking out. Poractiv has helped control my mild breakout but I still found myself having major breakouts. What I also found out is that your diet really has to change in order to maximize the use of this product. I still use it because it keeps the major breakouts at bay.
October 19, 2006
It has worked better than anything i have ever tried (and i've tried pretty much everything, except for proactiv). I have not had any problems with dryness or sensitivity. Very affordable.
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October 19, 2006

Pros:

it heals pimples without overdrying skin

Cons:

depending on how much you use, can make skin red and itchy

It's the one product that has alleviated my acne since accutane. Also, if you have a health spending account, you can reimburse yourself for the purchase of this product (or any acne medication, over the counter or prescribed). I would also recommend using a mild soap called vanicream, which is hard to find but can be ordered online (or purchased in CO Bigelow in Manhattan). I've started Duac (day 2), which has 5% BP. Will update you on the difference.
October 18, 2006

Pros:

Easy to use.

Nothing is fool proof. Acne Free works for a lot of people and works very well. Proactiv I am sure does the same, depending on the person. The difference bewtween the 2 is the cost. Acne Free is so affordable. There are instances for Proactiv that cause people to break out more and they spent all the money! Acne Free is not going to be overnight for everyone, and ACNE has a lot to do with hygeine,and diet also. So if its not working for you. Check out those other aspects in your life. If you use the system and then lay your clean face on a dirty oily pillow case and constantly touch your face maybe that is contributing to your acne troubles.
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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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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.