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
June 7, 2009

Pros:

Ingredient for ingredient, exactly the same as Proactive, only costs 1/2 as much. Easy to find at most Walgreens. Walgreens often puts on sale too! Cleared up my acne. In the summer I even use it three times daily.

Cons:

The facial wash and topical treatment do not last as long as the toner, but the toner can be used with other products for in between treatments.

Definitely recommend. I get adult cystic acne which sometimes turn in to boils if I do not use this product regularly.
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June 5, 2009

Pros:

i have been using it for a month now...my acne has certainly reduced.

Cons:

but my concern is that i ve noticed that whereever my skin has contact after the application of the acne control lotion or the cleanser,it had colored marks(light orangish)..i have noticed it on my sheets and my face towel.

so if this is the effect on fabric...what is the long term harm it might be causing to my skin..i dunno what to do about it...
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June 3, 2009

Pros:

Pretty inexpensive considering how long it lasts. Worked for me, at first....

Cons:

....Then it just started to dry my skin up, cause scars, and generally not work on even the smaller spots

It's got to be the alcohol in it that is drying up the skin, and according the film: American Psycho, that's no good at all!
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June 2, 2009

Pros:

works great , cleared up my skin...used it for three yrs with no problems

Cons:

Can't find anywhere they sell this stuff....

Would like to use again...Where can i get this stuff!!!!!!Looked everywhere....Even Wal-mart!
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May 31, 2009

Pros:

Fast acting, refreshing feeling, clears even severe acne.

Cons:

Stings, a bit harsh for dry to normal skin, made skin flaky at first.

I had been using this product since the beginning of 2008. Luckily that same year I experienced my first Christmas totally 100 % acne free and 90% scar free. around February I decided to change to Murad. It broke my skin out like never before, I got acne in places that I had never had acne before. It was horrible. Then I switched back and now all my acne is gone, but I still have a few scars. I DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THIS PRODUCT if you have moderate to severe acne!
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May 26, 2009

Pros:

After a few weeks all my acne was gone. I used it like the regimen recommends (not like proactive does).

Cons:

Dries out skin a little, and made it senstive. But I moisturized with baby lotion and it was lovely again. Also, for every day I miss, I get one pimple (that systematically!)

I had a few huge pimples always in the same place (chin). By following REgimen's advice of gentleness, and using proactive products they went away forever.
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May 20, 2009

Pros:

This product shows immedieate results(results within 1-3 days),It is worth the price(about $8 in Canada)lastly, If applied correctly it is virtually invisible.

Cons:

Although this product has many benefits it does dry out the skin and if applied to heavily(you put to much on)It leaves white residue which makes it diffcult to wear during the day as suggested.

The bottom line is if you have problem Acne, or blackheads you should definatly invest in this product, GET IT!! GET IT !! the side effects are minimal just buy a moisturizer that works the only thing you have to make sure of is you DO NOT USE IT WITH ANOTHER PRODUCT. I did that and I got a rash all over my face and i had to go 3 weeks with just using water on my face until it cleared up THEN i could start using it properly. BTW i used Clean & Clear Persa gel 5 because persa gel 10,10% bp, is considered a medication that needs to be perscribed by a dermotologist in Canada but w/e it still works just as effectively
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May 18, 2009

Pros:

Skin is smoother, works at keeping skin somewhat clear, evens skin tone

Cons:

Doesnt completely clear skin, side-effects if you stop using the product, dries out skin

I would recommend proactive for those who have light to mild acne. However, if you stop using the product side-effects such as increased acne breakouts occur. I used proactive for awhile and it work great for me but i stopped using for it a month and I started having more breakouts. All in all i would say proactive is good but hopefull i can find something better :)
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May 16, 2009

Pros:

Really works

Cons:

Can burn sensitive skin

I've suffered with acne for years but also have sensitive skin. I have tried everything and have found this cream works better than anything! I literally touch a spot (not the area around it though) with the smallest amount max once a day otherwise i go red and blotchy and can blister. I would still recommend it.
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May 16, 2009

Pros:

It can Reduce zits size

Cons:

It irritates skin A LOT ! Also, it dries skin, leaves white residue, and bleaches eyebrows... Keep it away form your hair

I wouldn ´t recommend it unless you have cyctic acne, VERY oily skin and your zits are giant-sized. Only for severe acne, otherwise use the %5 one when you get a breakout.
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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.