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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February 13, 2008

Pros:

None.

Cons:

I tried using this bc I thought it would make my little pimples on my forehead go away (I didn't have bad acne). Then after I started using it - I got pimples on my cheeks that never went away. I still have them three yrs later.

DO NOT USE. When I called Proactiv to return it - the operator said that the majority of the returns they get is what happened to me that acne gets worse and doesn't go away for years! I couldn't believe it. Im still in treatment bc Proactiv is the worst product ever!! Please don't use it!
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February 9, 2008

Pros:

for the first 6 months it worked great!! my skin was incredibly clean and i didnt have to worry about breakouts!!

Cons:

it made my skin incredibly dry and flaky. one morning i noticed i was breaking out from my cheeks (which is where i would never break out). And now later i have cheeks filled with tiny pimples and redness! i have no idea what to do!!!! =[

it works for the first months. then it just ruins your face
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February 8, 2008

Pros:

Leaves face totally oil free for the ENTIRE DAY!! This is such a major plus because my face was so oily, I could wipe down shop machines with my forehead and keep them from rusting.
Also clears up acne very well and works much faster than 2.5 or 5

Cons:

Weird gritty consistency at first, but it all rubs in.

Make sure you put on moisturizer after applying this, it not only is good for your face but it rubs in the white streaks you missed.
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February 8, 2008

Pros:

definatly clears up skin- fast! i use the 10% and apply it morning and night after clense toning and moiturising works great but weird to be walking around not trying to cover my face

Cons:

bit dry but mousturiser treats that

definatly worth using, luckily i only suffered for about half a year then discovered this. cheap-considering, couldnt live without it
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February 7, 2008

Pros:

Cleared my skin within a month of extremely painful breakouts

Cons:

can dry out your skin, if you are sensitive use bottles 2&3 only once a day
If you are a tanner, use sun screen to protect

I have never been happier with the look and feel of my skin, I never wear makeup and get alot of complements on my complection
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February 7, 2008

Pros:

Left my skin feeling very soft and clean. Cleared up my existing acne in under 3 weeks and controls any breakouts I get these days nicely, even in a very humid (Qld) climate.

Cons:

The chemical smell takes a little getting used to, though it fades fast. Can be a little harsh for the first couple of days.

This product is definitely not for everyone. Purchase it in one of the kiosks, so you have the option of returning it. If you want this stuff to work, you have to use it consistently. Some people say only once a day is fine for them, but I've been using it religiously twice a day and it's done a great job. It does cause some tenderness, dryness and redness in your skin for the first little while--if this continues past a week, return it. Make sure you keep track of how long you've had it so you can return it if it doesn't work. I had very severe acne, my skin is not at all sensitive, and I get a lot of exercise and a balanced diet, so unless you fit all those criteria then you will not get the same experience. I do reccomend it, because if it works for you, it is an absolute godsend. If it doesn't, send it back and get your refund.
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February 5, 2008

Pros:

Works well, I love the Toner and Repairing Lotion, but I had to ignore their instructions and use it only once a day. I don't breakout as often as before.

Cons:

Burns and dries skin if used twice a day as recommended. Very expensive.

I'll keep using it once a day until I find something better. I think it's worth to give a try.
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February 5, 2008

Pros:

Worked in 2 days

Cons:

none

Great product for your money. The only product that has worked so quickly for me.
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February 4, 2008

Pros:

-Got rid of my major breakouts

Cons:

-Full of harsh chemicals that bleached my eyebrows and hairline
-Skin becomes immune and you start to break out again
-Left me with acne scars

I never had SEVERE acne before using proativ so I thought it would definately work on my major breakout areas. Yeah, it got rid of the big breakouts; but my skin got used to the product and started to break out again anyway. I think the cleanser was WAY too rough for my skin because it was only AFTER I had used proactiv that I realised it has left tonnes of red acne scars under my skin. Not to mention that I'd have to get my eyebrows tinted every 2 weeks or so because the harsh chemicals would bleach them blonde! Overall it really didn't do much to my skin except leave me with more problems.
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February 1, 2008

Pros:

Has really cleared up my mild acne. I only use the repairing lotion occasionally, usually during hormonal times! Toner is refreshing and skin feels so smooth and glows.

Cons:

I buy it on Ebay because I don't want to get roped into a buying contract type thing. Moisturizer did make me break out, I am going to try the green tea one.

Really like it, does well on my skin.
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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.