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
December 1, 2007

Pros:

This stuff worked amazingly on my skin for over a year -- I had the best skin of my life from the beginning of my year of highschool until spring of my freshman year of college.

Cons:

After that year, it abruptly stopped working. Completely. I tried it again after two years, and it won't work again. Don't ask me why.

I have very oily skin and every kind of acne -- cystic, blackheads, whiteheads, everything -- and Proactiv really was the "miracle product" while it worked. Nothing changed in my diet or habits that I can tell when it stopped working. But hey, I'll take clear skin for a year.
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November 29, 2007

Pros:

I just started using this product and it seems to work well so far

Cons:

dry skin

I am similar to Jenn, I use evoclin also and an oil free moisturizer and it is starting to clear acne on my back, I dont have a problem on my face , I havent used it long, but I like it so far!
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November 29, 2007

Pros:

Complete skin care system in appropriate sizes.

Cons:

Never really cleared up my skin at all.

Like others, I have tried Proactive, many over the counter treatments and many prescription medications. I'm still looking, but this product goes on my list of been there done that.
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November 28, 2007

Pros:

affordable & actually works .

Cons:

dries out skin & leaves white residue .

I just bought this product today and applied it about an hour ago after using the acne wash . my face feels alot better already although it was really dry but luckily the acne wash came with a oil-free moisturizer that made thinhs ALOT better . i am going to continue using this product along with the acne wash & moisturizer . - - i don't recommend using this if you have sensitive skin .
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November 28, 2007

Pros:

cleared my face and did the best at delaying oil build up. after the first few weeks, my face did not dry out, and it leaves my face feeling clean and refreshed.

Cons:

The "system" (cleanser, toner, repairing lotion) does not work. I use only the face wash and it works wonders.

The system itself sucks. The toner and lotion is harsh to the face. However, using only the cleanser works wonders. I always battled with acne but I never worry about it anymore. It's such a relief to not have people staring at all of my zits. I've used the cleanser for two years now and I will continue to do so!! Don't waste your money on the toner and lotion. (In my opinion it's a waste.)
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November 27, 2007

Pros:

CHEAP!!! :]

Cons:

Your face might get a little dry. But use some lotion and your be fine.

It work great. I use it everyday! Believe me i am a person that use to have acne everywere, but Oxy change it. BUY IT!
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November 24, 2007

Pros:

its makes ur face feel like its smoother

Cons:

i have been using proactiv solution for about a month now and it is amking my acne worse everyday im about to stop becuz its making me look horribe

it just isnt working for me=[
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November 21, 2007

Pros:

less spots

Cons:

after the first day i got a bad reaction and my face went totally red like sunburn! it itches and burns i think its from the night cream because when i put it on it tightened my face and started to itch straight away, next day i was red like a tomato

i will carry on using it because i paid for it, but without the night cream
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November 18, 2007

Pros:

Works to clearn up old acne. Stops new acne from forming (big pimples). Little pimples, really tiny still show but disappear within 1 or 2 days.

Cons:

Itchy and some burning. Can bleach clothing and sheets.

I posted on Oct. 9th and have been using this product over a month. Going on 2 months. Arms and upper back look really good. I've actually begun using the new OXY Body Wash with Alpine scent. Yeah, I know its for guys but it works. And my skin is smoother after using it. I'm pleased with this Oxy Daily Wash and after almost 2 months, and some ruined shirts and sheets...things look much better. Will probably be all clear by spring.
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November 17, 2007

Pros:

Its Affordable, you see results right away. This Stuff really works!!!

Cons:

I still have some scarring of the pimples, but overall Acnefree has helped clear my face.

I have tried Proactive before and It did nothing to help clear my face. Then I heard about acnefree and I decided to give it a try. I went to a CVS store and bought it there for $20. Immediatley, the product started working. I know it started working because, my face got worse. More pimples came out...but I learned i got more pimples because the Acnefree was cleaning up all the dirt and oil in my skin...you know how the saying goes " It gets worse before it gets better" and thats what happend to me. But I didnt freak out, eventually the pimples cleared up and my face is better than ever. Its smoother and it just looks good. I have been using Acnefree for 2 months so far and I use this stuff concistently, every morning and night when I go to bed. If you are still skeptical...just try it. what have you got to loose?
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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.