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
February 28, 2008

Pros:

worked well...for about a week

Cons:

expensive, inconvenient shipping scheduling (even if you change it), not a long term solution, eventually not effective, probably a scam

I am convinced that this product is a scam. It is overpriced, and it was very difficult to find information on how to cancel my membership. It was not effective. none of the products were right for me. the cleanser was textured and scented, which irritated my skin, and as for the toner and moisturizer, they were too medicated and worsened the condition of my skin by drying it out, burning it, and altering my pore sizes. I would not recommend this product to anyone. instead I would recommend seeking medical attention. it's cheaper too! the trip to my dermatologist: $20 prescription of tetracycline: $4 bottle of cetaphil cleanser: $6 =$30 and since you only go to the dermatologist every 6 months, the cost on other months is about $10. much more affordable than the $40/month for proactive
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
February 27, 2008

Pros:

Use it once a day, and it cleared up my acne in a couple weeks. But only use once a day.

Cons:

Only available at my local CVS

Great product. Good for anyone who is tired of trying every new product on the market. Works way better than salicylic acid treatments.
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
February 26, 2008

Pros:

Didn't find any

Cons:

Expensive
Burns, made my acne WORSE!

By the end I ended up with tons of blemishes on my face. Don't waste ur money on this product rather go for products from proactiv.
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
February 26, 2008

Pros:

Small amount works great. Very effective.

Cons:

None

I love it
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
February 23, 2008

Pros:

cleared acne quickly. also cleared blackheads.

Cons:

smells awful. (like bleach)

proactiv does work but dont give up , do it the same time everyday, and limit the amount to your liking.
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
February 22, 2008

Pros:

Works really well. Helped my oily t-zone. Cleared up my skin.

Cons:

If you forget your moisturizer, you'll be in for some trouble with the peeling.

I got this product from my mother because she gets free samples from her office (she's a pediatrician). She told me to use it for my forehead breaking out. After just a few weeks I really saw a change. Now, it's been one and half months and my skin is clear. I use this product with duac and cetaphil moisturizer. For spot treatments when I see something coming to the surface, I use the proactiv refining mask (sulfur treatment) and sleep with it on. It all really works. Do not forget to moisturize!!!!
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
February 18, 2008

Pros:

Smooth skin, pores smaller, clears up skin pretty well

Cons:

dryness unless moisturizer is used.

I have used this product for 3 months and I have seen changes for the better. I used to have small bumps on my forehead and red spots on my chin, and blackheads on my nose. As for my cheeks they were fine, but the rest of me was a mess! The white bumps on my forhead are gone, as well as the blackheads on my nose. Unfortunately my chin has been a problem area, most of the red spots are gone but I really have wanted a even skin tone, and my chin isn't really that. And although this sounds strange right when I'm about to have nice skin even on my chin, I'll have a little pimple come and mess everything up. You HAVE to follow the instructions they give you though, ABSOLUTELY crucial. Cleanser, Toner, Repairing Lotion, then Moisturizer. Use the Refining Mask 2 times a week if you have more sensitive skin (like me) or 3 times a week if you have normal skin. Use the Refining Mask after the cleanser and then follow with the Toner, Repairing Lotion, and Moisturizer.
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
February 16, 2008

Pros:

This product really works! It goes on smoothly, dries clear and doesn't leave a residue. It works quickly and doesn't cause major outbreaks in the beginning like some other treatments do.

Cons:

Ordering online and paying for shipping. I have to plan ahead to make sure I don't run out!

This is the BEST product I have ever used! I have tried ProActiv, Retin-A, tetracycline, and all the over the counter products that are out there. I found this site a few months ago and decided to give it a try. Within a week I could tell a HUGE difference in my skin. Now after three months use, I am amazed at the change in my skin. For the first time in my adult life I am not totally embarrassed to be seen without makeup. My skin is finally smooth and clear for the first time in years.
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
February 14, 2008

Pros:

Really does clear up acne.

Cons:

Can take some time to see results. Causes drying and irritation on some people.

My husband used to have VERY bad acne and tried both oral and topical treatments prescribed by a dermatologist. None of them worked. Proactiv almost completely cleared up his acne within 4-6 weeks. Not only that, his skin was smooth and soft - I was so jealous! As for me, proactiv has cleared up my acne also, but since I have a sensitive/dry skin type it's caused even more dryness, and after 3 years of using it it appears I have become hyper-sensitive to it. Every time I put it on my skin now I get itchy red patches on my jawline. Basically if you have sensitive skin like me you may have problems with this product (and with any acne product for that matter) but either way Proactiv WILL clear up your acne!
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report
February 13, 2008

Pros:

I can get this product anytime I need it especially since its available in the shopping areas around my house.

Cons:

My skin gets dry and irritated. If it falls on clothing it bleaches them.

AcneFree products have been the only line of products that have worked so far. I've used everything from over the counter to prescription until i finally decided to try this. After my skin cleared up in a matter of weeks i noticed they offeredthe scar removal product as well. I purchased it and within the next two weeks the scars were improving until finally i don't have them anymore. Only downside is that you can't forget to wear the sunscreen when using this product.
This Was Helpful

3 user(s) found this helpful

Report

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.