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 3, 2009

Pros:

Affordable and easy to use. I've used it for about 2 weeks and my acne has severely cleared.

Cons:

I have to close my eyes when I apply the cream cause the vapors stings my eyes.

Get it and try. It's only $10.00. Got mine from Rite Aid.
May 2, 2009

Cons:

Smells like a basket of rotting eggs!
Made my face burn with itchy, bumpy redness.

Even though this product was less expensive than others available, I sure do wish I had been able to test it on my skin in an inconspicuous area first. I tried this for three days, following the directions to the letter. Had to quit because I noticed that my face was beginning to feel very itchy. My face is unbearable today which is why I turned to the internet. Figured someone else might have a suggestion for getting rid of the itchy redness. Looks like I'm going to have to tough it out. The product website recommends that you keep trying the product and cut out certain steps, but I think you'd have to be off your rocker to continue using anything that makes your face feel and look this bad. It also feels very bumpy to the touch. Like giant goosebumps. Fortunately, the bumps aren't really huge enough to see unless you're looking for them. But still, gross.
May 1, 2009

Pros:

This stuff works... and they always give more then expected

5 th order... the soap is Unbelievable
April 30, 2009

Pros:

I promise you, if your skin can tolerate it, there is nothing more effective for fighting mild/moderate acne than this gel.

Cons:

It can dry out your skin and leave a white film if you apply too much. Start off with a low dosage. Use more at night when you are in private.

I have been to 2 dermatologists, and have been prescribed Duac, Retin-A, Differin, Doxycycline, exfoliators, etc, all for extended periods of time. Every time I was unsatisfied. For 2 years I have been struggling with acne, often embarrassed enough to stay in weekends when it got really bad. This stuff saved me.
April 30, 2009

Pros:

Made the acne on my back, shoulders, and chest smaller and smoother after only a week of use.

Cons:

Makes sunburn a whole lot worse, I also developed a rash on my hand which I believe is from this but I am not totally sure.

So far i've noticed my back getting kinda clearer. Don't use day before going to the beach or tanning, gave me sunburn even after using SPF 60.
April 30, 2009

Pros:

*Clinique is a reputable brand and makes quality skincare products--this line is no different. The cleanser isn't too drying and leaves skin feeling fresh. The toner stings a little, but really does help keep oily skin under control.

Cons:

*The included moisturizer is drying, as it contains benzoyl peroxide. You may want to use a different one during the day (Clinique makes a great oil-free one) and save this one for nighttime use.

I recently went off the Pill, and my skin has been going crazy trying to adjust. I broke out on my chin and on the side of my face, mostly smaller pimples, but two deeper (blind) pimples popped up, as well. I bought this Clinique set on a Sunday, used it as soon as I got it home, and by later that evening, I could already tell that the smaller pimples on my chin were drying up. After using the products again on Monday, the pimples continued to shrink and dry up, although my face began to feel REALLY tight and get a little flaky. I decided to only use the included moisturizer in the evening and use my Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel instead in the morning to control the dryness and flakiness. That seemed to help immensely with the tight, dry feeling. Now, it's been over a week, and my skin is almost completely clear. The two deeper cyst-type pimples I have are a LOT smaller and starting to fade away too. So far, these products are working really well for me :)
April 28, 2009

Pros:

wel considering it just makes you brek out more.theres none

Cons:

makes you break out more and dosnt fix it.

dosnt work.dont buy it.
April 26, 2009

Pros:

This stuff works miracles. For me, it works over night which is very rare for my skin.

Cons:

none whatsoever!!!

this stuff is god in the form of acne medication. the benzoyl peroxide does not hurt skin for the most part. simply amazing.
April 26, 2009

Pros:

When using Proactiv I see results within one week.I have tried many 3 system facial care products but the don't compare, they may keep the pimples at bay most of the time but they usually don't remove the marks.

Cons:

The price should be reduced by now and the #2 Cleanser is not enough, it always go way before the other items.Just like most topicals you MUST remain on it for it to keeping working, the week that you run out the acne re-appears.

It works very well but it is too expensive for consistance use.
April 25, 2009

Pros:

my acne was sooooo svere i was not able to go to school for two days and was admitted to hospital :( but as soon as i used panoxyl 10 in 3 days there was less redness, my zits and pimples didnt hurt as much and all my acne scars had gone!!!

Cons:

made my skin a bit dry but its worth it

i have used it for about 2 months now and my skin is as clear as it can get... doctor told me to keep on using it for atleast a year.... use it...it is cheap and effectful!!!

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.