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
January 3, 2009

Pros:

Seems to work at first but over time stops

Cons:

It was working at first but recently it seems to be doing nothing except making my skin really dry and really flaky.

I wouldnt bother with it.
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January 2, 2009

Pros:

It made my acne turn almost invisible and reduced redness of zits very fast.

Cons:

The first couple times you use it it burns, and if you apply alot to a zit it burns. Drys out skin.

I have tried neutrogena and clean & clear before this, and clearasil ultra is the best so far. It wasn't that good for me because my whole family has a history of *severe* acne, but it helped so much. If you need relief that can be found at your neighborhood drug mart or wal-mart or something, this is it!!!
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December 31, 2008

Pros:

It worked so well in the beginning I was completely clear.

Cons:

Did not help with hormonal acne and stress induced acne

It works really well and does not leave as much redness as other BPO's. It is easy to apply all over the face in a thin layer. Helps mattify your skin also.
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December 29, 2008

Pros:

It works very well! I used it twice a day for 2 days and my pimples dried up great! Didnt expect this kind of result from a cheap product!

Cons:

It itches a bit a few minutes after u apply it, but that makes u feel that it's working!

Great price and a very good result. At most i thought it would simply dry my face and make the pimples less noticeable, but it dried the pimples totally and cleared it too! So good product.
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December 29, 2008

Pros:

clears my acne within several days of using it

Cons:

it has a different smell

try to use it for at least 1 week and see what happens to your face because its sooooo cheap compared to other brands
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December 29, 2008

Pros:

very good,it cleared my acne within 2 weeks and did not left my skin peeling and dry. i have combonation skin =)

Cons:

none actually , i dont like the smell =P

so i was just checking some reviews online and i cant find any solutions for my acne ! and i found this product and i bought it, it was the best . its worth the money too =)
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December 28, 2008

Pros:

Actually works!
Improves skin texture!
Doesn't dry out skin (when adjusted to specific skin types)

Cons:

The face wash runs out before other items in the set.
Takes several weeks for full effect.
A tad pricey for the full set.

This product worked rather well for over-the-counter. It did take several weeks for me to see the full results, however, so I suggest persistent patience with this formula. Also, you must stick to the regiment and alter to your specific skin needs. I have a VERY oily t-zone, however, I found if I used the night cream daily it dried out my face quite noticeably. I suggest using the face wash twice daily, and the night cream as spot treatment only. Also, I prefer the consistency of Neutrogena's regular oil-free lotion sold seperately but they have essentially the same ingredients. I would say moisturizing once or twice a day after cleansing is key, even if you have oily skin like me. Also, I wish the face wash was sold seperately because it runs over faster than the less used lotion and night cream. Twenty-bucks for face was is a bit steep but this product worked very well for me and cleared my moderate acne after a month. It is my new best friend! It's great to wear less make-up!
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December 23, 2008

Pros:

I dont really know yet.

Cons:

Doesn't seem to work for me.

I've had the burning sensation and yes it does go away after a few days of use. The product doesn't seem to be working for my acne though. I even applied more to dry the skin out and it does nothing. I'll try for a few more days but if nothing happens im gonna have to use something else.
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December 22, 2008

Pros:

This stuff really worked! No fancy packaging, but no empty promises either!

Cons:

None that I can find after 12 months of use on my adult acne!

Does what it says it will, BUT you must follow all the directions and be patient!!!!
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December 22, 2008

Pros:

This is an excellent product!! it tones very well and helps clear acne. it feels good on the skin as well!! reduces redness. its cheap!

Cons:

yes it does stink a little lol but its not THAT bad. it dries out the skin a little

it clears acne well it has helped me however it dried out some parts of my skin. just use a moisturizer and you should be just fine!! it feels cool on the skin. it gets rid of excess dirt and oil. its cheap so you should try it, what do you have to lose? i got my 16 oz bottle for under 3 bucks!!(it will probably vary depending on where you live) TRY IT!
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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.