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
June 26, 2007

Pros:

worked at first

Cons:

made my skin dry and made my acne worse after two weeks

now my skin feels dry and I had to stop using this product
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June 24, 2007

Pros:

This product is great. It helped to clear up my skin noticeably within a couple of weeks! Also, the BP formula is almost like a lotion. So easy to apply, and didn't flake or leave white clumps.

Cons:

Went through a purging cycle from about the 3rd - 7th day. Don't worry. Just stick with it.

You should chew the tablets. Don't worry - they really don't have a taste! Bottom line is I am glad I tried this product. My derm told me that homeopathic remedies usually do not help, but I decided to try it anyway. Glad I did!!
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June 21, 2007

Pros:

Works better than a cream formula, since it doesn't ball up with moisturizer and is easier to apply. Clear gel, so if you go to a pool or something it won't produce a waterish residue. A bigger size than the Neutrogena-On-the-Spot.

Cons:

Only available online, not in stores...

I only got this product 3 days ago. I have been doing this regimen for about a month now, but all that time with the Neutrogena stuff. My skin was almost clear, but with 2 pimples and about 6 blackheads. But after using THIS gel, I have an acne-free face now. I definitely recommend it to anyone.
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June 20, 2007

Pros:

beginning

Cons:

scars,bumps,confidence,disaster

the prople who sell it to you won't lie yea at first it's great but then your face is worse then before plus it leaves scars, not goodfor caucasians nevertheless afican americans.
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June 17, 2007

Pros:

...celebrities use it?

Cons:

This product made no change with my face at all. Sure it wasn't irritating but it wasn't working. I kept my subscription for monts hoping the miracles I saw on t.v. would happen to me. But nothing happened.

Huge and very expensive disappointment
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June 17, 2007

Pros:

NOTHING

Cons:

burns skin, makes your acne worse, creates red spots.

i've always had clear skin and all of a sudden i just started to break out. its starting to be a problem and i saw the commercial to clear acne in 3 days. so i gave it a whirl and it did nothing to help me. DO NOT BE FOOLED BY THE ADVERTISEMENT. IT DOESNT HELP YOUR SKIN, in fact.. it makes it worse. i wish i just left my skin alone. now i am stuck with painful, red pimples and my face looks like a mess. i wish i read these reviews before trying this product.
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June 14, 2007

Pros:

None so far!

Cons:

Drys skin out like anything!! Face looks flay and worsened complexion! Oh and EXPENSIVE too!!

Ive been using Proactiv for about 2 months now....and my complexion has become worsened...and no changes to my acne so far. How depressing:(
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June 10, 2007

Pros:

Works great and works fast

Cons:

Has a bit of an odor, and sometimes will leave a bit of white on your face, but can be rubbed in a little to clear up.

Overall seems to work ok. Haven't tried Clearasil but due to it being at a lower price i think it should work ok.
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May 27, 2007

Pros:

You can feel it working! Though it takes time, it clears up skin and makes it more smooth and even. Also worked VERY well on blackheads.

Cons:

When you first start to use it, it can cause irritation, dryness, or peeling(or all three). I didn't like the day lotion because it was a little thick. I use Clean and Clear Morning Glow instead and that works perfectly. =]

When I first started using it, it gave me rough patches around my nose and chin. I think it was a little to harsh for my sensitive skin. So i just used it once a day instead of twice a day. Once the rough patches went away, i went back to using it twice a day. It is helping my skin SO SO much. I can honestly say that I see an improvement in my skin every time i use it. The blackheads around my nose are completely gone now, and although it did take a while, my acne scars ARE fading. I get so excited when i see another acne scar completely disapear. I'm going to keep using it and hopefully my skin will be perfect very soon! =]
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May 26, 2007

Pros:

idk i just got it today

Cons:

idk i just got it today

you know if you have an itchy or burning sensation you might be allergic to the peroxide stuff. it seems a lot of people are. plus your only supposed to use a dime sized amount of step 1, a quarter sized amount of step 2, and a pea sized amount of step 3. and the lady said that as the cleaner brings the deep down dirt to the surface u get a small breakout and then it gets clear.
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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.