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:

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October 19, 2009

Pros:

Improved texture. No new cysts. Diminished small bumps. No peeling. Blemishes heal quickly.

Cons:

I had to modify the 3-step system into a 4-step (sometimes 5-step) to get optimal results.

I have been using the 3-step acne system for 1 week now. I modified it a bit by adding the 7-day scrub every time after I cleanse before using the toner. I also use the acne mask 1 or 2 times per week. I also switched to their makeup 1 week ago. This is the best system I have used so far. Does it make my skin perfect? No. However, I am not looking for perfection. The IMPROVEMENT has been amazing. I haven't had any cystic blemishes since using this product line (I always used to have 1 or 2 going on). Also, it has helped with the small bumps that I had all over my cheeks. I really hope that the results continue. I have had no new scarring and hopefully the old scars will fade. The texture of my skin is much better and I am VERY happy with this product. I realize that this system may not work for everyone, but it did work for me. I am very pleased.
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October 19, 2009

Pros:

I LOVE IT it keeps my face feeling fresh all day long and smooth i can already see it helping my face clear up:)

Cons:

the first step does make my face red when using it and it burns

i would have to say im going to be using it for a long time. i use to be embrassed to even be aroung people because it was so bad but its starting to get better. i just need to get something to fix all the scars that were let behind
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October 18, 2009

Pros:

This product does exactly what it says it does. It gets rid of your acne. It is a hardcore acne treatment that will completely dry-out your acne. Acne doesn't like being dried-out so it goes away. Simple as that.

Cons:

Hmmmmm.....Yea I won't lie, it dries out your skin. Get yourself a lightweight oil-free lotion for your face so you can actually smile when you look at your acne-free self in the mirror. It is a bit expensive ($40.00 for a 25g Jar)

This is a harsh chemical that you are applying your face to solve a serious problem. It works for me, but you need to know how sensitive you are to having a dry face. If having a dry face is worse than having acne for you, definitely steer clear of this product. I will continue to use this product to destroy those pimples, as well as the feisty big ones. One helpful hint for anybody using this cream, I would suggest mixing it every week or so with the plastic piece that usually comes with it. That seems to help it do it's job a little better. Just give this stuff a try. What do you have to lose? I don't know what everybody is talking about with the smell. In my opinion, proactive makes me want to vomit.
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October 17, 2009

Pros:

i have this serus acne on my back it was from my child hood we used to play in dirty water

Cons:

it has dry out my skin and mad it red a little bit but it used to sting an i think thats because i was rubbing my back to hard in showers before using it and i used to but a very think layout

its cheap 3.5$ i used 5 tubes for 3 weeks i used to but 2 times a day after morning showers until lunch time about 8 hours and at night till the morning it has removed about 70% and am so happy that i can go out now with friend to Beach and pools because i used to not because it was so ugly and disgusting but now it looks fine still 30% to go i totally recommend this but you should see a doc before using it it might be to heavy in your skin :)
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October 16, 2009

Pros:

DRAMATIC Results within 5 days. See things changing within 3. Cheap, Can get it ANYWHERE!

Cons:

A little dry, but use a moisturiser. Your skin will get cope.

IM BASICALLY ACNE FREE!!!!!!!! Dermatologist perscribed something that was way too expensive, this was the closest over the counter cleanser. BUT OMG DOES IT WORK MIRACLES! 3 days i saw results, after 5 days it was dramatic. Started with once a day, then moved to using it 2 times a day. Just make sure you use a moisturiser. Yeah it seems brutal, it may seem strong when you first use it but dont give up! Your skin will come around. I used Pro Acitive for years. Did nothing. I think it made it worse... But this... WOW. it is amazing. I've had a chemical peal each month to get rid of the redness from past popping and scars. But This Oxy product is what made the pimples stop. Its honestly the best thing i've ever found. BUY IT!!!!!!! I've been using it for 8 months. My Dermatologist FLIPPED with the results i got.
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October 16, 2009

Pros:

it clears your face!!!!!

Cons:

it does dry out ur face a lil bit =/ but it works reall good. and make sure to wear sunscreen. or what i recomend is do not have any contact with the sun.

DONT HAVE CONTACT WITH SUN
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October 13, 2009

Pros:

gets rid of size the first night,redness the second,gone the third. face is soft!quick and easy.

Cons:

stings a bit but just dab a damp cloth & itll go away(only if you put too much)
remember to clean your face offf before you use it!!

get it!!!!
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October 13, 2009

Pros:

it cleared up my face completly taakes off dead skin its the best product i ever used and it healed all my blimishes

Cons:

none

its the best product on the market
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October 11, 2009

Pros:

The consistency is really nice and it dries clear.

Cons:

IT. JUST. DIDN'T. WORK.

I waited for about 6 weeks and expected to at least see results withint the first month, but NOTHING! I was really disappointed because i had read all of the success stories and was really hoping this treatment would work. If anything, this treatment made my acne MUCH WORSE. If this worked for you, great, but i wouldn't risk it. I switched back to my original regimen which was Oxy 10 Face Wash and Clean & Clear's 10% treatment because it has worked for me before. Good luck to anyone suffering with acne. It's a horrible thing to go through.
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October 11, 2009

Pros:

It really drys out the pimple slowly removing it. It has not caused any reaction to my skin though mine is a very sensitive. I used to have red to brown marks on my face because of my pimples.With time it reduced the blemish on my face.

Cons:

It causes slight drying , which can be taken care of by using moisturiiser or using a scrub daily

It is excellent if you are looking for a long term effect. The 3 months I have been using it. My acne outbreak has reduced so much.
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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.