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
February 5, 2009

Pros:

gentle, effective, no particular odor, IT works

I have aging skin with acne. It's a major insult to my ego. this product, used in conjunction with the AHA cream has banished my acne and softened my mature skin. It is the best I have found over many years of acne. I ramped up slowly and still use just a bit less that recommended. I get little to no redness and the dryness is minimal if I drink a lot of water, do not rub or tug at my skin and follow with the AHA cream.
February 5, 2009

Pros:

Clears skin with consistent use, exfoliates and believe it rids of bacteria

Cons:

slightly drying especially in winter- may benefit from additional oil free moisturizer, takes a while to see results- would recommendend sticking with it for at least 4-6 wks before giving up

i used the acnefree severe system (orange box) the reviews seemed better. tried many treatments from drugstore to higher end dept. store and endorsed well-known products. this has been most consistent for me, but had to be patient and wait at least a month before seeing more consistent results. skin often has to adapt to a new treatment. breakouts may get slightly worse at first, but be patient (i know it's hard) try it worked for me
February 4, 2009

Pros:

I put clear zit DIRECTLY on my zits at night and when I wake up you cant even see them. Then I use it the next day and they have vanished!

Cons:

Dont put this cream Everywhere on your face or it wont work. Just use on your blemishes. Either way no harm will be done. Some poeple dont like the smell but it doesnt bother me at all. ITS GREAT

Outstanding.. I dont know why I cant find it anywhere. It works well at any age. I give this product 5 stars. (: Excellent works better than proactive and stridex!!
February 3, 2009

Pros:

Cleared a little acne up.

Cons:

Dried out skin, only worked for a few days.

It just didn't work for me. It may work on people with light acne, but I don't recommend it for anyone with moderate to severe acne.
February 1, 2009

Pros:

none really, i didnt have bad acne though so i can't judge

Cons:

Gave me a rash, bad consistensy, Drying

This stuff is harsh it gave me a rash if you have sensitive skin dont try this
January 31, 2009

Pros:

I am a woman in my late 20's and have developed adult acne. this product cleared my acne after 1+ month. Best regime line I have tried.

Cons:

somewhat expensive but it delivered for me

You must use the entire 3 step regime plus the mask occasionally. If you only use the cleanser, it may make your problem worse. I only used the cleanser for 1 year with no reduction in my acne then I switched to the 3 step regime and now I am clear. Consistency and following directions is the key.
January 30, 2009

Pros:

it had a good advertising campaign

Cons:

it doesn't work. i switched to this from using acne free, i thought it would work the same if not better but it actually made my skin worse. my spots appeared, then those spots turned really dark.

don't buy proactiv!!!!! ive been using it day and night, and the cleanser for 1 and a half minutes, still no success.
January 28, 2009

Pros:

Feels nice on the face.

Cons:

Dries out face, does nothing for acne.

Doesn't work.
January 26, 2009

Pros:

When you first get it, it works. and the refining mask is nice.

Cons:

After about a week or two of use, it just stops working and makes your acne worse. Also, if it does work for you and you miss a day or two - you break out horribly.

Basically, ProActive is expensive and inaffective. I know many people who used it other than myself and all the cons happened to them too. It's a waste of money.
January 26, 2009

Pros:

it works

Cons:

none really

try it

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.