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
January 5, 2015
Did not work for me
Was a bit too harsh for my skin. Left skin feeling very cleaned though.
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November 28, 2014
my holy grail
I've lived with mild to moderate to severe acne & back again since 1989 (probably before many of you reading this review were born). I wouldn't say I've tried everything, but I've tried enough--certainly almost every over the counter product under the sun, along with the ubiquitous home remedies. Many of which did nothing & a few that made matters worse. I'd mostly given up on Benzoyl Peroxide after burning the crap out of my face time after time. Never again! Then a few years ago I read the book Breaking Out by Lydia Preston, & decided to give that evil, evil BP just one more shot. I wasn't expecting much, except to hopefully not burn the crap out of my face yet again. This time, however, I took a more measured approach than in times past. I gradually worked my way up to the acne.org BP by first using Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask every other day. It wasn't easy, but it was worth it. The itching is intense at first, but I was able to distract myself during this 'hardening off' period in my skin & now I'm able to apply the acne.org BP without a single side effect. (Except the unavoidable bleaching of clothes & towels--small price to pay imo, & hey, the ombre look is in, right?) I mostly use it once a day, at night, unless I have some sort of monthly situation that us ladies sometimes do. What I like about the acne.org BP is pretty much in the description: it's a gel that spreads/absorbs easily without added fragrances, etc. It's pretty much the only product I use in winter, aside from moisturizer. Simple.
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October 29, 2014
A savior
I went to see a dermatologist after spending much time and money on various products and methods. I tried everything under the sun including ProActiv +. Proactiv + worked on my face but did absolutely nothing on my chest and back. I even tried the Proactiv body wash and the cystic acne just laughed at me and spread. I finally went to see a dermatologist and he told me that the back acne and chest acne I have is rooted too deep for topical stuff to really address. He put me on minocycline anti-biotic and told me to use PanOxyl bar on my chest and back. I really don't know which helped the most, but this double barreled treatment method worked for me. I was really down in the dumps because it sucked not wanting to be seen with my shirt off out in the sun. This combo helped me a lot mentally and physically as odd as that may sound.
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October 14, 2014
Didnt work for me!
Well, it didnt work for me at all! The redness on my skin became worse and spread to my entire face. So i would recommend applying some amounts on the back of your hand before applying on your face. This will let you know if you are allergic or sensitive to benzoyl peroxide. If it gets worse, it would be best to visit your dermatologist
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September 14, 2014
Prefer Proactiv + Pore Targeting Treatment
Tried this a few times because I got a free travel kit with my AHA purchase. This treatment feels very grainy compared to my Proactive + treatment. The Proactive + BP treatment is very smooth. With that said, I'm not knocking the effectiveness of this product. I'm sure it works just fine, but I can't switch from something that goes on smooth to something that feels like I'm rubbing liquid sand on my face.
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September 12, 2014
Product used: The Regimen
Good
Everything is perfect but the moisturizer is the worst. Fix the moisturizer and it will be 5 stars.
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September 10, 2014
The NEW Proactive Plus is Much better!
Regular ProActive did not work very well on my son's face, but the new ProActive + works really great! Doesn't dry out his face or make it red.
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September 9, 2014
Would you use a flame thrower to light a candle?
This stuff will help your skin to clear up, but it probably will remove a few layers of skin in the process. Its pretty strong. Also it's kind of expensive for the small amount you get. I would prefer the Acne.Org stuff, but that's not nearly as strong as this. I gave it three stars because it does help acne.
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September 4, 2014
Consistent and Effective ++
I give this 10 stars!!! No acne treatment I have ever used works like this stuff. It keeps acne at bay, and it really does work! I only need a pea-sized amount to keep my skin clear, but I originally started off using way more than that. This stuff is light, absorbs quick and nicely. No residue, stickiness etc. Of course its drying, especially at first (I had a rough first few months with this stuff. my skin peeled, got discolored and was chronically dry), but once your face gets used to this stuff, your all set to go. Acne is no longer a problem for me thanks to this treatment-- NEVER DISCONTINUE I WOULD DIE :(
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August 30, 2014
Good
I just bought it and followed the directions on the back and everything. I thought you had to use it twice a day, but it said to just start using it once or it could dry out and break out. And it has reduced my jawline acne which is a huge problem for me, I am officially in love. Clean && Clear is bae.
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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.