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
August 15, 2009

Pros:

Contains benzoyl peroxide, and active ingredient, which is helpful for blemish-prone skin.

Cons:

Contains wax that may cause blemishes to become worse.

Is an okay product for those who rarely break-out.
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August 13, 2009

Pros:

Nice clean smell. Very easy to use. Natural and not harsh. Not many steps like major brands. Actually works. Bottle lasts me about 3 months, so it is definitely worth the price!

Cons:

None!

I absolutely love this product! Right when I started using it, my face improved so much. I took a picture of myself before Kick A$$, now I look back at it and I can't even believe how much my face has improved. It is amazing! This product should be called more than just Kick A$$. It should be called BAD A$$, because that is exactly what it is!
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August 12, 2009

Pros:

works quickly

Cons:

cant use it more than once a day

this stuff is seriously amazing. i've been using it about 2 weeks and my skin has never been so clear. i never have hadBAF ance but ive always had small bumps on my forehead here and there. Since i've been using it, the bumps are completely gone. my forehead is so smooth. i once in while have gotten the big pimples underneath the skin that hurt and since i've been washing my face with this system i havent gotten one. my face is so smooth. i'm in love.
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August 12, 2009

Pros:

Works awesome! the cleanser I used for this was Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash Redness Soothing. it has salicylic acid. (S.A.) it's always better to use a S.A. cleanser because S.A. keeps pores unclogged, therfore, the medicine in the ZapZyt can work.

Cons:

none that I can find.

it was amazing. that's the bottom line.
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August 10, 2009

Pros:

makes skin smooth, skin feels clean

Cons:

has not removed black heads yet

I got the product because I have black heads. I do not acne breakouts but the black heads are there. I have not seen them go away yet. I have only been using the product for about 2 weeks so I will get it another month or so.
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August 9, 2009

Pros:

It worked pretty much the first couple of days.

Cons:

A little bit of drying.

I have only a little bit of acne on my cheeks and forehead, but after using this product for only about 3 days, I have seen amazing results! I use this product right after using neutrogena oil free acne face wash!
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August 7, 2009

Pros:

no harsh smell, nice packaging, very inexpensive (compared to other treatments), works!

Cons:

bleaches fabrics

i've been using this line for about a month now, and my skin is the best it's been in a long time! in fact, i went to the derm yesterday to get a new antibiotic prescription and he wouldn't even give them to me because he said my skin wasn't bad enough for it to be necessary :) i was trying to decide if this stuff works better than the philosiphy "on a clear day" system, but then i realized i'm paying FOUR TIMES as much for the philosophy line. acnefree only cost me $20! the only thing i have to say is that you MUST be consistent with this, just be patient, trust me, it works!
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August 7, 2009

Pros:

clears pimples

Cons:

can be drying but i put it on my oily tzone where i have my acne so im good

itz an amazing product! does not dry my skin and reduces pimple size , ive only used it for like 2 weeks and a half so i havent seen huge results yet
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August 6, 2009

Pros:

These products do work.

Cons:

Any piece of clothing the products touch are ruined. It takes the color out of everything, particularly along the neckline.

I stopped using it because I couldn't afford to ruin my clothing and pillowcases.
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August 4, 2009

Pros:

It worked instantly for me, and it kept my skin clear for about 6 months.

Cons:

After 6 months, Proactiv stopped working and began to wreck my skin. I got breakouts in places I've never had acne. Plus, the cost is absolutely ridiculous since the ounces of solution you get is so small.

Everyone's skin is different. Proactiv may work or not work for you. However, considering the price and the other reviews, I'd say exhaust all other options before considering Proactiv.
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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.