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
May 20, 2008

Pros:

My 16 year old son likes it because he can use it in the shower. It's not time consuming, just part of his daily routine.

Cons:

It's very drying, but that's easily remedied with Cetaphil moisturizer. It takes a couple of weeks to really notice the difference, so you have to be patient.

We've spent hundreds, maybe more than $1000 on prescription medications with little success. Panoxyl is a blessing for my son. His face is much clearer and he's much happier. I, on the other hand, have to keep telling the girls, "sorry, he already has a girlfriend." :-)
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
May 20, 2008

Pros:

I have used it for months and it got rid of my acne. I now have smoothe skin. And it leaves a nice tingle after use.

Cons:

The fragrance.

Get it.
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
May 20, 2008

Pros:

worked like a miracle, i will be buying more of this stuff.

Cons:

none!!

get rid of blemishs!!
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
May 19, 2008

Pros:

Works. Cheap.

Cons:

Some redness of acne left...dry skin..no problem.

ehh.some redness left.I tried it and it worked for about a week. Rednes of acne left but really good. im still using it to prevent it its worth it for me.
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
May 19, 2008

Pros:

Clears acne, reduces oiliness and shine

Cons:

can make skin a bit dry in the winter, the counters can't keep the line in stock

The 3 step acne line is fabulous. Although I still get the occassional breakout, it is a rarity compared to before. My skin tone is more even and bright. I have tried many products including proactiv and this is better by far.
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
May 18, 2008

Pros:

It completely cleared up my skin. I've been pimple/break-out free for almost 3 months now.

Cons:

When I first used it, like the first three days, my face was a little itchy and dry.

It's a really good product. Like I said I got a bit itchy on the face in the very beginning, so like it said on the instructions, I used it less often (once instead of twice a day) and the itching and dryness went away. Now I just use it in the morning and my skin is completely clear and is always soft and smooth. Easily the best skin care I've ever used.
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
May 17, 2008

Pros:

It Works, i didn't think it did, at all it just pissed me off, yet for some reason i kept using it. It makes sense now, everybody complains it dosnt work after only a week of use. i had horrible achene for a month of use, than it completely cleared!

Cons:

ITS EXPENSIVE, takes so long to work, and the first week your skin is irritated

IT DOES WORK. Dont complain a product dosntr work if the directions arent fully followed and time isnt given for it to work. i only use the wash and occasionaly the cream, never the toner, and it works fine after a month. also on bad breakouts add some Equate achene cream to the spots, its only like 1.50 at walmart, and its gone in a day.
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
May 17, 2008

Pros:

Definetly clears breakouts fast when used exactly as the regimen suggests. Clears up your red marks as well

Cons:

Some times gets a little bit over dyring , but that can really depend on how long you wait to moisturize

Fantastic product, I won't use anything else, This product has hands down made me smile everytime I look in the mirror
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
May 15, 2008

Pros:

It's cheap.

Cons:

everything else about the product.

It's done absolutely nothing for my acne. My face is extremely red. But maybe that's because the burning is so bad it feels as though someone poured acid on my face. Mind you, I washed my face about an hour and a half ago and it still burns. My face is ridiculously dry. The package says that you'll see results in as "little as 3 days" I'm going on day 6 and my acne is actually worse than it was before. Don't use it.
This Was Helpful

1 user(s) found this helpful

Report
May 13, 2008

Pros:

i got this product by prescription by my local doctor, it clears your acne fast and effectively.

Cons:

I think the doctor had a grudge against me, a way of tryin 2 prescribe me something that would BURN my f****** face off ! this stuff is lethal i tell you, if you have sensitive skin then dont use it ! it turns your face SO dry and flaky

from wat i see this proudct has ad the same reiew over and over again e.g - dry flaky burnt side effects, i dont even no why this stuff is rated to b the best treatment 4 acne cuz reely its like puttin f****** acid on yuor face.i used it 4 bout a week and my face was bone dry with big brown patches of dry dead skin....took alot of vaseline to get my face bak in shape, but after, it was nice n smooth, BUT never again will i use this loada sh*t cuz it just aint worth lookin like a dry ballsac wen u wana go out and enjoy yourself.
This Was Helpful

1 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.