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 23, 2009

Pros:

I saw improvement immediatley

Cons:

now getting cystic acne

I'm not sure if I should stick with it, or stop using. I began using it becuase of cystic acne and I saw immediate improvment on my overall complexion but now I have 3 new cystic bumps. I don't know if I should continue use or if it's causing more problems. Anyone else had more cystic acne develop and keep using it with good results?
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February 23, 2009

Pros:

It spreads easily and penetrates rather well into the skin.

Cons:

It was drying to the face, even though it has 2.5% strength benzoyl peroxide in it. Also, I did get a level of itchiness to my face with this product as well. It does some level of acne control, just not the best.

This product is one that I thought would have worked better than it did. But, I really didn't find it to be really any different than any of the off-the-shelf acne products that you can readily find in the stores. It does provide some level of help to acne prone skin, however I do feel that there are better products out there on the to be used for acne than this one.
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February 22, 2009

Pros:

easy to use kind of clears skin but not really

Cons:

burning itching & peeling

I have moderate acne so I decided what the hell i'll try it. When we first got it shipped it took FOREVER. I started usikng it and it cleared it up a little but now when I use it, it just gets dry and irritated. It makes my sking look worse oily and the redness doesn't go away. It might be different for other people but for me this "magic medicine" isn't working I just ordered murad's acne complex today and i'm gunna see if it works!
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February 22, 2009

Pros:

Works good, non drying, some immediate results, gentle for sensitive skin

Cons:

Takes a while to get full effect, can bleach towels.

Good product, makes your face look and feel good. Quick to use, easy automatic delivery. Get the extra stregth for worse acne, it puts salicylic acid in the mix too. (the toner) I used reguar for 6 months then switched and now with extra strength its even better. Extra strength doesn't smell very good though.
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February 19, 2009

Pros:

it makes your face really smooth, and clears small pimples well

Cons:

it definitely doesnt work well on serious acne, and makes you dry if you dont moisturize well

i think it worth your money, and you should definitely take a shot at it
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February 18, 2009

Pros:

magic in about 2 weeks! now, after about a month i have completely clear skin! i had very painful cystic acne all over my cheeks and on my jaw only a few scars remain now

Cons:

bleaches clothes, the sensation on acne is weird but it means its working!
dont apply near mouth,the result is really chapped lips

AMAZING CHEAP TINGLY AMAZING cystic acne gone! self confidence soaring
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February 15, 2009

Pros:

None

Cons:

This medication caused my skin to ERUPT in the worst cystic acne Ive ever had. BP is nasty stuff.

It can have a bad effect on some people. Use with caution.
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February 15, 2009

Pros:

Easy to use

Cons:

Didn't clear up my skin-at all
I think I actually got more acne

Did not work for my skin, but may work for others
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February 12, 2009

Pros:

Worked for awhile

Cons:

only worked for awhile. Dried my skin out

This product did not work for me. The girl who worked at the kiosk for it told me to give it about 3 packages and it would work, but i'm on my 3rd and i'm breaking out really bad.
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February 9, 2009

Pros:

seems to be working well. my skin feels refreshed and clean after using it.

Cons:

horribly dried put my skin the first time i used it

I used it over the summer for about a week and it horribly dried out my skin but i don't remember if i used a moisturizer with it. I stopped because of it but just started again about 3 days ago because my acne has really increased. It seems to be working great the second time around, but then a gain i thickly apply moisturizer with it. Other products I have used feel to just clean the top layer, but underneath my pores still feel clogged. This product seems to clean under the surface and leaves my face very refreshed. i have faith in it this time (if i keep using good moisturizer) and hopefully it will work! If not, i'm thinking about skin ID, but the problem with that product among with proactive is you have to use a credit card. I'm only 14 so the convince of being able to buy this product in a drug store is great because i can pay with cash! I hope this works!
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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.