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
April 8, 2008

Pros:

It works, what more can I say? My severe hormonal acne (due to polycystic ovarian syndrome) cleared up in around 6-8 weeks and after just a few days the unafected skin was brighter and smoother which people commented on.

Cons:

My skin did get a little sore and dry on my chin but kept going and it soon went away, well worth it though for clear skin!

Don't waste your money on any other over the counter product or miracle cream try this one first its affordable and does the job I cant say enough about quinoderm It worked better than the cream my doctor gave me on perscription!
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April 7, 2008

Pros:

Consistent results, leaves skin feeling smooth, doesn't dry my skin.

Cons:

Takes your skin a while to adjust when you first begin using the product. You have to give it a fair chance and use diligently.

I started using Proactiv over a year ago. As recommended by the manufacturer I started by using it only once a day to acclimate my skin to it and prevent over drying. After a few weeks I went up to twice a day. It took a few weeks for my skin to adjust to the product but now I love it and wouldn't go without it. In my opinion the majority of the negative reviews are probably from people who started using it too often, or didn't use it long enough to give it a chance.
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April 7, 2008

Pros:

3.9/5.. on how well it works. NOT BAD.

I started using yesterday and i notice a different already.!!!! my acne isn't red.. is going away=] if u have a bit acne i recommend this just apply it on acne. and leave it on

Cons:

Going to dry my acne lol which is a good thing
but the white stuff.. :( have to leave it alone.

I use Oxy cleansing pads 2% SA first.. then this :D seems like good combo... i needed oxy to prevent break out. , and this for spot treatment since is to powerful not a good idea to apply all over the face.. is 10% BP!!!! :) will dry. ONLY USE IT for spot .
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April 5, 2008

Pros:

it leaves you with a healthy glow

Cons:

it leaves your skin dry and red when you first use it.

it is a good product that can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels. you just ahve to stick with it. if after a month you dont see results you like then you should top using it and know that it is not for everyone. it's worth a try, worst case no results best case clear skin!!
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April 3, 2008

Pros:

Effective only for a short period of time. Seems to be gentle for the most part. Great as a preventative. Great for those who really need help with their skin.

Cons:

Makes skin worse after stopping usage. Can make skin red. Skin can become dependant on the benzoyl peroxide as it works to kill the bacteria.

Please, please only try if you don't have sensetive skin and are truly desperate. I made the mistake of trying it out of insecurity and vanity pimples. My skin loved it at first and I was clearer than I had ever been. After long term usage it stopped working as well. When I tried to use more gentle products, my skin errupted and it has taken me years to get it back to the basics. Proactive isn't a bad line, but benzoyl peroxide can be addictive for your skin. It is truly a great product though if you really suffer from acne. Just think about it and remember the best way is gentle! I have been struggling with acne for about 7 years and have realized this finaly.
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March 29, 2008

Pros:

I LOVE this product. Over the past 3 months it has really cleared my skin up. No other product seemed to make a difference. It's easy to apply, it dries quickly, it looks fine under make-up and has basically just given me back my self-confidence!

Cons:

The first 2 weeks it made my skin extremely dry and itchy, but I guess it was kind of my own fault as I may have started out too strong. Start by using a small amount and you should be fine.

It's a real life saver. It's affordable and it works! Everyday I look in the mirror and I love what I see. My skin is smooth and clear for the first time in years. I've never looked better thanks to this amazing product. I will definitely continue to buy this!
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March 28, 2008

Pros:

doesnt dry out skin

Cons:

hardly works

acnefree costs less and works just as well-which isnt very well.
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March 26, 2008

Pros:

packing and smell. the price was alright for something from a department store. other than that.... none.none.none.none.none.none!

Cons:

made my skin HORRIBLY DRY(im on accutane now, and its not even that dry). dryness made it difficult for me to wear makeup. gave me a lot more pimples.itched.skin was red and very angry with me

this product is designed for those with mild acne, so if yours is worse than that then this product is not for you! also, test this product on a patch of skin a few times, because it can be highly irratating. the 2nd step exfoliator contains a high amount of alochol (irritating), and is followed by the "moisturizer" which doesnt really moisturize because it contains medicines which are drying (also irritating). i recommend this for MILD ACNE PATIENTS WITH TOUGH SKIN!
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March 26, 2008

Pros:

clears up acne & even existing scars

Cons:

makes my skin a bit red

It wrks wonders, but depends on your skin type
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March 24, 2008

Pros:

I'm 30 yrs. and a year after having my 3rd baby my skin went crazy with acne. I tryed only proactive so far and have been using it for about 5 months. I used ivory soap for years before and only had a break out vary little, untill last fall.

Cons:

The first week I used I had a little burning feeling but no dammage was done to my skin. My acne has almost cleared up, it just makes my acne more manageable, nobody has perfect skin.I use the cleanser 3 times a day and reparing lotion at night.

Proactive has worked for me, it helps me manage my skin and any driness I get from the cleanser, the reparing lotion at night repaires it. I am hopeful that it will clear up the little bit of acne I have left.
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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.