In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsPicking a Concentration for a Benzoyl Peroxide Face WashIngredients to Look for in a Benzoyl Peroxide Face WashHow We SelectedWhat to LookOur ExpertsFrequently Asked QuestionsWhy Trust Verywell Health
In This ArticleView All
In This Article
View All
Our Top Picks
Reviews
Picking a Concentration for a Benzoyl Peroxide Face Wash
Ingredients to Look for in a Benzoyl Peroxide Face Wash
How We Selected
What to Look
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Trust Verywell Health
Verywell Health / Kristin Kempa
Stubborn acne is the nemesis of many, and while many skincare products claim to be pimple-fighting superheroes, few actually deliver. Butbenzoyl peroxide is a tried, true, and clinically proven ingredient for treating existing pimples and preventing future breakouts.Wendy Long Mitchell, a dermatologist out of NYC, says benzoyl peroxide works in two ways to decrease oiliness and clogged pores: as an exfoliant and an antiseptic. She adds that, unlike topical antibiotics, bacteria (a significant cause of acne) won’t develop a resistance to benzoyl peroxide.And because this ingredient works well for all types of acne, those with white and blackheads can benefit from its cleansing power.
Most washes contain 2.5% to 10% BP, the highest BP level allowed without a prescription. Getting a wash with10% BP will definitely be more effective, but it will also be more drying.Christina Chung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Philadelphia, PA, says thatif you have sensitive skin, starting with a lower dose (around 2.5%) is always a good idea because it’ll decrease your risk of irritation. From there, she adds, you can gradually increase the concentration level.
In addition to picking the right concentration, Chung says you should also look for cleansers made withmicronized BPbecause they allow for more effective and tolerable pore penetration. She adds that if you have blackheads or inflamed pimples, acombination product with mild hydroxy acidwill boost benzoyl peroxide’s comedolytic properties.
If dryness is a concern, she suggests finding a formula with sensitive-skin-friendly ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.
Our Top PicksBest Overall:SALEDifferin Daily Deep Cleanser at Amazon$13$10Jump to ReviewBest Budget:AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser at Amazon$8Jump to ReviewBest For Sensitive Skin:SALECeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser at Amazon$18$15Jump to ReviewBest Body Wash:Dr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment at Amazon$25Jump to ReviewBest With Hyaluronic Acid:SALEProactiv Acne Cleanser at Amazon$36$27Jump to ReviewBest Gel:Perrigo 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Gel at Amazon$21Jump to ReviewBest Moisturizing:SALEReplenix Acne Wash + Aloe Vera at Amazon$27$21Jump to ReviewBest Spot Treatment:SALENeutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Spot Gel at Amazon$14$10Jump to ReviewBest For Cystic Acne:PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Mask:Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask at Amazon$13Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEDifferin Daily Deep Cleanser at Amazon$13$10Jump to ReviewBest Budget:AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser at Amazon$8Jump to ReviewBest For Sensitive Skin:SALECeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser at Amazon$18$15Jump to ReviewBest Body Wash:Dr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment at Amazon$25Jump to ReviewBest With Hyaluronic Acid:SALEProactiv Acne Cleanser at Amazon$36$27Jump to ReviewBest Gel:Perrigo 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Gel at Amazon$21Jump to ReviewBest Moisturizing:SALEReplenix Acne Wash + Aloe Vera at Amazon$27$21Jump to ReviewBest Spot Treatment:SALENeutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Spot Gel at Amazon$14$10Jump to ReviewBest For Cystic Acne:PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Mask:Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask at Amazon$13Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEDifferin Daily Deep Cleanser at Amazon$13$10Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEDifferin Daily Deep Cleanser at Amazon$13$10
Best Overall:
SALE
Best Budget:AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser at Amazon$8Jump to Review
Best Budget:AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser at Amazon$8
Best Budget:
Best For Sensitive Skin:SALECeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser at Amazon$18$15Jump to Review
Best For Sensitive Skin:SALECeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser at Amazon$18$15
Best For Sensitive Skin:
Best Body Wash:Dr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment at Amazon$25Jump to Review
Best Body Wash:Dr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment at Amazon$25
Best Body Wash:
Best With Hyaluronic Acid:SALEProactiv Acne Cleanser at Amazon$36$27Jump to Review
Best With Hyaluronic Acid:SALEProactiv Acne Cleanser at Amazon$36$27
Best With Hyaluronic Acid:
Best Gel:Perrigo 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Gel at Amazon$21Jump to Review
Best Gel:Perrigo 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Gel at Amazon$21
Best Gel:
Best Moisturizing:SALEReplenix Acne Wash + Aloe Vera at Amazon$27$21Jump to Review
Best Moisturizing:SALEReplenix Acne Wash + Aloe Vera at Amazon$27$21
Best Moisturizing:
Best Spot Treatment:SALENeutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Spot Gel at Amazon$14$10Jump to Review
Best Spot Treatment:SALENeutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Spot Gel at Amazon$14$10
Best Spot Treatment:
Best For Cystic Acne:PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash at Amazon$10Jump to Review
Best For Cystic Acne:PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash at Amazon$10
Best For Cystic Acne:
Best Mask:Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask at Amazon$13Jump to Review
Best Mask:Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask at Amazon$13
Best Mask:
Best OverallDifferin Daily Deep CleanserPHOTO: Amazon$13$10 at Amazon$13$10 at Walmart$10 at TargetProsTolerable level of benzoyl peroxideAdded moisturizing ingredientsAffordably pricedConsScentedMay be dryingWhy We Recommend ItThis all-star cleanser from Differin packs astrong yet non-irritatingpunch of acne-fighting power thanks to5% benzoyl peroxide. It’s still gentle enough for most people to use daily without stripping the skin (though those with ultra-sensitive skin may want to start with weekly use) andcontains hydrating ingredientslike glycerin to help counteract any drying effects.We love how this once prescription-only brand is now anaffordable drugstore staple. Before-and-after photos suggest this cleanser can clear up even some of the toughest acne cases.Keep in MindThe percentage of benzoyl peroxide and the cleanser’s scent may irritate some users.Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:4 ounces |Concentration:5%
Best OverallDifferin Daily Deep CleanserPHOTO: Amazon$13$10 at Amazon$13$10 at Walmart$10 at Target
Best OverallDifferin Daily Deep Cleanser
Best Overall
Differin Daily Deep Cleanser
PHOTO: Amazon
$13$10 at Amazon$13$10 at Walmart$10 at Target
ProsTolerable level of benzoyl peroxideAdded moisturizing ingredientsAffordably pricedConsScentedMay be drying
ProsTolerable level of benzoyl peroxideAdded moisturizing ingredientsAffordably priced
Tolerable level of benzoyl peroxide
Added moisturizing ingredients
Affordably priced
ConsScentedMay be drying
Scented
May be drying
Why We Recommend It
This all-star cleanser from Differin packs astrong yet non-irritatingpunch of acne-fighting power thanks to5% benzoyl peroxide. It’s still gentle enough for most people to use daily without stripping the skin (though those with ultra-sensitive skin may want to start with weekly use) andcontains hydrating ingredientslike glycerin to help counteract any drying effects.
We love how this once prescription-only brand is now anaffordable drugstore staple. Before-and-after photos suggest this cleanser can clear up even some of the toughest acne cases.
Keep in Mind
The percentage of benzoyl peroxide and the cleanser’s scent may irritate some users.
Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:4 ounces |Concentration:5%
Best BudgetAcneFree Oil-Free Acne CleanserPHOTO: Amazon$8$7 at Amazon$14 at Walmart$8 at CVSProsGreat for sensitive skinNon-drying formulaConsMust wash face for five minutesMilky texture may be off-puttingWhy We Recommend ItYou don’t want to overwhelm your skin—or your wallet—with too many heavy-duty products that can dry out your complexion.AcneFree’s Oil-Free Cleanseris a great budget buy that packs2.5% benzoyl peroxideand nourishing and hydrating ceramides. Those withsensitive skinwill love the low concentration of benzoyl peroxide, which can still be effective but isn’t as likely to cause irritation.Keep in MindThis cleanser does come with some caveats. Some people aren’t a fan of the milky texture or the fact that you need to lather up your face for at least five minutes for the formula to work effectively. But if you’re looking for an affordable and gentle solution to your acne concerns, this cleanser is a great choice.Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:8 ounces |Concentration:2.5%
Best BudgetAcneFree Oil-Free Acne CleanserPHOTO: Amazon$8$7 at Amazon$14 at Walmart$8 at CVS
Best BudgetAcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser
Best Budget
AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser
$8$7 at Amazon$14 at Walmart$8 at CVS
ProsGreat for sensitive skinNon-drying formulaConsMust wash face for five minutesMilky texture may be off-putting
ProsGreat for sensitive skinNon-drying formula
Great for sensitive skin
Non-drying formula
ConsMust wash face for five minutesMilky texture may be off-putting
Must wash face for five minutes
Milky texture may be off-putting
You don’t want to overwhelm your skin—or your wallet—with too many heavy-duty products that can dry out your complexion.AcneFree’s Oil-Free Cleanseris a great budget buy that packs2.5% benzoyl peroxideand nourishing and hydrating ceramides. Those withsensitive skinwill love the low concentration of benzoyl peroxide, which can still be effective but isn’t as likely to cause irritation.
This cleanser does come with some caveats. Some people aren’t a fan of the milky texture or the fact that you need to lather up your face for at least five minutes for the formula to work effectively. But if you’re looking for an affordable and gentle solution to your acne concerns, this cleanser is a great choice.
Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:8 ounces |Concentration:2.5%
Best For Sensitive SkinCeraVe Acne Foaming Cream CleanserPHOTO: Amazon$18$15 at Amazon$15 at Target$19 at UltaProsLower-concentration of BPMultiple hydrating ingredientsTurns from a cream into a foamConsExpensiveSome people may not like the foamWhy We Recommend ItAs effective as it is in clearing acne, benzoyl peroxide can be pretty harsh—especially if you’re dealing with ultra-sensitive skin. That’s why we love thiscream-to-foam cleanserfromCeraVe, which contains a lower concentration of benzoyl peroxide (4%) plus hydrating ingredients. You’ll findhyaluronic acid, niacinamide, andthree essential ceramidesin this formula, which help toreplenish the skin’s natural barrierand protect it from moisture loss. You’ll pay more for this cleanser than others on this list, but its gentle formula is worth the splurge.Keep in MindThat said, if you don’t love the foaming texture or want a higher concentration of benzoyl peroxide, this may not be the cleanser for you.Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:5 ounces |Concentration:4%
Best For Sensitive SkinCeraVe Acne Foaming Cream CleanserPHOTO: Amazon$18$15 at Amazon$15 at Target$19 at Ulta
Best For Sensitive SkinCeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
Best For Sensitive Skin
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
$18$15 at Amazon$15 at Target$19 at Ulta
ProsLower-concentration of BPMultiple hydrating ingredientsTurns from a cream into a foamConsExpensiveSome people may not like the foam
ProsLower-concentration of BPMultiple hydrating ingredientsTurns from a cream into a foam
Lower-concentration of BP
Multiple hydrating ingredients
Turns from a cream into a foam
ConsExpensiveSome people may not like the foam
Expensive
Some people may not like the foam
As effective as it is in clearing acne, benzoyl peroxide can be pretty harsh—especially if you’re dealing with ultra-sensitive skin. That’s why we love thiscream-to-foam cleanserfromCeraVe, which contains a lower concentration of benzoyl peroxide (4%) plus hydrating ingredients. You’ll findhyaluronic acid, niacinamide, andthree essential ceramidesin this formula, which help toreplenish the skin’s natural barrierand protect it from moisture loss. You’ll pay more for this cleanser than others on this list, but its gentle formula is worth the splurge.
That said, if you don’t love the foaming texture or want a higher concentration of benzoyl peroxide, this may not be the cleanser for you.
Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:5 ounces |Concentration:4%
Best Body WashDr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Acne TreatmentPHOTO: Amazon$25 at Amazon
Best Body WashDr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment
Best Body Wash
Dr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment
$25 at Amazon
ProsHigh concentrationIncludes hyaluronic acidCan be used on both face and bodyConsMay be too drying for someDispenser may be difficult to work
ProsHigh concentrationIncludes hyaluronic acidCan be used on both face and body
High concentration
Includes hyaluronic acid
Can be used on both face and body
ConsMay be too drying for someDispenser may be difficult to work
May be too drying for some
Dispenser may be difficult to work
While we love that you can use this all-over wash on your face and body, bear in mind that a high concentration may be too harsh for your face. See how your skin tolerates a weekly wash first, then adjust your regimen accordingly. We’ve noticed that the pump dispenser has a tendency to get stuck, but fortunately, customer service is prompt in sending replacements.
Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:8 ounces |Concentration:10%
Best With Hyaluronic AcidProactiv Acne CleanserPHOTO: Amazon$36$27 at Amazon$18 at Walmart$18 at TargetProsOil-freeContains soothing Chamomile extract90-day supplyConsExpensiveFlimsy packagingWhy We Recommend ItUsing something as strong as benzoyl peroxide—especially every day—is going to result in some dryness. That’s why it helps to opt for a low-concentration cleanser like this one fromProactivthat contains not onlyhyaluronic acidbut alsochamomile extract, which helps tosoothe inflammation. The2.5% benzoyl peroxideis still strong enough to break down the oil and bacteria that cause acne, while the other hydrating ingredients also keep your skin supple. All in all, this cleanser is an effective and gentle way to fight acne without compromising your skin’s health.Keep in MindThe price tag might be a bit steep, but you get a generous 90-day supply with this purchase. The packaging can be a bit flimsy and prone to breakage, so it might be a good idea to store it in a jar or other container.Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:6 ounces |Concentration:2.5%
Best With Hyaluronic AcidProactiv Acne CleanserPHOTO: Amazon$36$27 at Amazon$18 at Walmart$18 at Target
Best With Hyaluronic AcidProactiv Acne Cleanser
Best With Hyaluronic Acid
Proactiv Acne Cleanser
$36$27 at Amazon$18 at Walmart$18 at Target
ProsOil-freeContains soothing Chamomile extract90-day supplyConsExpensiveFlimsy packaging
ProsOil-freeContains soothing Chamomile extract90-day supply
Oil-free
Contains soothing Chamomile extract
90-day supply
ConsExpensiveFlimsy packaging
Flimsy packaging
Using something as strong as benzoyl peroxide—especially every day—is going to result in some dryness. That’s why it helps to opt for a low-concentration cleanser like this one fromProactivthat contains not onlyhyaluronic acidbut alsochamomile extract, which helps tosoothe inflammation. The2.5% benzoyl peroxideis still strong enough to break down the oil and bacteria that cause acne, while the other hydrating ingredients also keep your skin supple. All in all, this cleanser is an effective and gentle way to fight acne without compromising your skin’s health.
The price tag might be a bit steep, but you get a generous 90-day supply with this purchase. The packaging can be a bit flimsy and prone to breakage, so it might be a good idea to store it in a jar or other container.
Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:6 ounces |Concentration:2.5%
Best GelPerrigo 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment GelPHOTO: Amazon$21 at AmazonProsStrong concentrationAffordableTopical treatmentConsVery dryingNot a cleanserWhy We Recommend ItSince most washes are only on our skin for a few minutes or so, sometimes a more intense, longer-lasting treatment is needed. Enter this10% benzoyl peroxide gelfrom Perrigo. Thishigh-concentrationgel is applied after washing and left on overnight to work its magic.We love the affordable price tag and this product’s immediate impact on existing pimples. On the downside, some people may get skin irritation or redness when using this gel, so it might help to only apply to affected areas instead of your entire face. And if you’ve never used this high concentration before, start with just a weekly application before increasing your frequency.Keep in MindBecause this product is so concentrated and doesn’t include many additional ingredients, it will be quite dry—that’s why you’ll want to use a strong moisturizer in tandem with this product.Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:2.1 ounces |Concentration:10%
Best GelPerrigo 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment GelPHOTO: Amazon$21 at Amazon
Best GelPerrigo 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Gel
Best Gel
Perrigo 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Gel
$21 at Amazon
ProsStrong concentrationAffordableTopical treatmentConsVery dryingNot a cleanser
ProsStrong concentrationAffordableTopical treatment
Strong concentration
Affordable
Topical treatment
ConsVery dryingNot a cleanser
Very drying
Not a cleanser
Since most washes are only on our skin for a few minutes or so, sometimes a more intense, longer-lasting treatment is needed. Enter this10% benzoyl peroxide gelfrom Perrigo. Thishigh-concentrationgel is applied after washing and left on overnight to work its magic.
We love the affordable price tag and this product’s immediate impact on existing pimples. On the downside, some people may get skin irritation or redness when using this gel, so it might help to only apply to affected areas instead of your entire face. And if you’ve never used this high concentration before, start with just a weekly application before increasing your frequency.
Because this product is so concentrated and doesn’t include many additional ingredients, it will be quite dry—that’s why you’ll want to use a strong moisturizer in tandem with this product.
Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:2.1 ounces |Concentration:10%
Best MoisturizingReplenix Acne Wash + Aloe VeraPHOTO: Amazon$27$21 at Amazon$24 at WalmartView on Replenix.com
Best MoisturizingReplenix Acne Wash + Aloe Vera
Best Moisturizing
Replenix Acne Wash + Aloe Vera
$27$21 at Amazon$24 at WalmartView on Replenix.com
ProsContains soothing aloe veraSoap-free good for sensitive skinCan be used on body tooConsExpensiveContains fragrance
ProsContains soothing aloe veraSoap-free good for sensitive skinCan be used on body too
Contains soothing aloe vera
Soap-free good for sensitive skin
Can be used on body too
ConsExpensiveContains fragrance
Contains fragrance
If you’re prone to acne and dryness, washing your face with a stripping ingredient like benzoyl peroxide may sound like the last thing you want to do. ButReplenix’s Acne Washlessens the drying effects benzoyl peroxide can have thanks to itsnaturally calming aloe vera content. By combining astrong 10% concentrationwithmoisturizing ingredients like aloe and glycerin, this wash helps deliver effective acne treatment while soothing inflammation. This soap- and paraben-free formula makes a pretty good option for sensitive skin, too.
Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:6.7 ounces |Concentration:10%
Best Spot TreatmentNeutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Spot GelPHOTO: Amazon$14$10 at Amazon$11 at Walmart$12 at Target
Best Spot TreatmentNeutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Spot Gel
Best Spot Treatment
Neutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Spot Gel
$14$10 at Amazon$11 at Walmart$12 at Target
ProsReduces sizeReduces rednessClaims to give visible results in two hoursConsNot a cleanserVery drying
ProsReduces sizeReduces rednessClaims to give visible results in two hours
Reduces size
Reduces redness
Claims to give visible results in two hours
ConsNot a cleanserVery drying
A daily wash is great for preventing acne and treating those all-encompassing breakouts. But sometimes, you need a stronger remedy for those bright red spots that not even the thickest foundation can conceal. EnterNeutrogena’s Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Spot Treatment. This product utilizes benzoyl peroxide at a10% concentrationto flatten and shrink the size of your pimple while reducing redness.
That being said, this product is incredibly potent and will leave the skin very dry. So it’s best used in moderation and with moisturizer when treating isolated spots.
Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:1 ounce |Concentration:10%
Best For Cystic AcnePanOxyl Acne Foaming WashPHOTO: Amazon$10 at Amazon$10 at Walmart$10 at Target
Best For Cystic AcnePanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash
Best For Cystic Acne
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash
$10 at Amazon$10 at Walmart$10 at Target
ProsHigh concentrationNo irritating fragranceEasily removes makeupConsDryingDoes not lather
ProsHigh concentrationNo irritating fragranceEasily removes makeup
No irritating fragrance
Easily removes makeup
ConsDryingDoes not lather
Drying
Does not lather
By using the highest concentration of benzoyl peroxide without a prescription, thisfragrance-free cleanserworks to reduce sebum production and inflammatory acne. We were impressed with how easily it removed our makeup without leaving residue when we tried it.
It might be too potent for those with dry skin. Also, it didn’t lather when we used it, which some people may prefer.
Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:5.5 ounces |Concentration:10%
Best MaskNeutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/MaskPHOTO: Amazon$13 at Amazon$17$10 at Walmart$10 at TargetProsCleanser-mask comboGreat for blackheadsTolerable BP concentrationConsDaily mask can be dryingSmell can be off-puttingWhy We Recommend ItWhen it comes to treating acne-prone skin, an intensive face mask can go a long way. With this versatile Neutrogena product, you get both abacteria-eliminating face washand animpurity-dissolving maskin one. Formulated with agentle dosage of benzoyl peroxide(just 3.5%) and kaolin and bentonite clays, this dual-action formula is great for clearing up inflamed pimples and deep-rooted blackheads alike.Keep in MindMost skin types can tolerate this low dose of BP, but using it daily (especially as a mask) may result in some drying. And while we liked the scent and the cooling sensation it gave, it may not be for everyone did not. All in all, it’s a great find if your skin could use a deeper cleanse.Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:4.2 ounces |Concentration:3.5%
Best MaskNeutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/MaskPHOTO: Amazon$13 at Amazon$17$10 at Walmart$10 at Target
Best MaskNeutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask
Best Mask
Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask
$13 at Amazon$17$10 at Walmart$10 at Target
ProsCleanser-mask comboGreat for blackheadsTolerable BP concentrationConsDaily mask can be dryingSmell can be off-putting
ProsCleanser-mask comboGreat for blackheadsTolerable BP concentration
Cleanser-mask combo
Great for blackheads
Tolerable BP concentration
ConsDaily mask can be dryingSmell can be off-putting
Daily mask can be drying
Smell can be off-putting
When it comes to treating acne-prone skin, an intensive face mask can go a long way. With this versatile Neutrogena product, you get both abacteria-eliminating face washand animpurity-dissolving maskin one. Formulated with agentle dosage of benzoyl peroxide(just 3.5%) and kaolin and bentonite clays, this dual-action formula is great for clearing up inflamed pimples and deep-rooted blackheads alike.
Most skin types can tolerate this low dose of BP, but using it daily (especially as a mask) may result in some drying. And while we liked the scent and the cooling sensation it gave, it may not be for everyone did not. All in all, it’s a great find if your skin could use a deeper cleanse.
Key Specs:Active Ingredients:Benzoyl Peroxide |Size:4.2 ounces |Concentration:3.5%
How We Selected the Best Benzoyl Peroxide Face WashesIn our search for the best benzoyl peroxide face washes, we consulted with top dermatologists and estheticians to get their insights on the most effective products for fighting acne. We also read up on the latest research behind the ingredients in each formula. We assessed products based on the following criteria:Ingredients:We analyzed the concentration level and looked for moisturizing ingredients.Effectiveness:We researched the face washes' results to see if they have legitimately helped prevent, reduce, or minimize acne flare-ups.Value:We compared the price point to the face wash’s performance to see if the financial cost is worthWhat to Look For in Benzoyl Peroxide Face WashesFormula type:Another factor to consider when shopping for a benzoyl peroxide face wash is your preferred formula. Generally, there are two types: wash-off and leave-on. Chung says there isn’t a superior option between the two, as it ultimately comes down to what your skin needs.Our ExpertsWe interviewed the following experts as we researched and wrote this article:Wendy Long Mitchell, MD, FAAD, FACMS, a board-certified dermatologist based in NYCChristina Chung, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Philadelphia, PA, andFrequently Asked QuestionsAccording to Chung, benzoyl peroxide has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory capabilities that can treat Propionibacterium acnes, a driver of acne. It also decreases sebum production, which can help treat blackheads.Benzoyl peroxide—especially in higher doses like 10%—can be very drying, especially for those with sensitive skin. It also has a bleaching effect that can ruin towels, clothes, and even hair.Yes. As long as it isn’t irritating your skin or drying you out, you can use a benzoyl peroxide face wash every day.Why Trust Verywell HealthShannon Ullmanis a writer who specializes in health and wellness, writing for sites like Insider Inc. and MindBodyGreen. She has been using Replenix Acne Wash + Aloe Vera for four months, to try to remedy the dry skin that winter brings.
How We Selected the Best Benzoyl Peroxide Face Washes
In our search for the best benzoyl peroxide face washes, we consulted with top dermatologists and estheticians to get their insights on the most effective products for fighting acne. We also read up on the latest research behind the ingredients in each formula. We assessed products based on the following criteria:
What to Look For in Benzoyl Peroxide Face Washes
We interviewed the following experts as we researched and wrote this article:
Frequently Asked QuestionsAccording to Chung, benzoyl peroxide has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory capabilities that can treat Propionibacterium acnes, a driver of acne. It also decreases sebum production, which can help treat blackheads.Benzoyl peroxide—especially in higher doses like 10%—can be very drying, especially for those with sensitive skin. It also has a bleaching effect that can ruin towels, clothes, and even hair.Yes. As long as it isn’t irritating your skin or drying you out, you can use a benzoyl peroxide face wash every day.
According to Chung, benzoyl peroxide has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory capabilities that can treat Propionibacterium acnes, a driver of acne. It also decreases sebum production, which can help treat blackheads.
Benzoyl peroxide—especially in higher doses like 10%—can be very drying, especially for those with sensitive skin. It also has a bleaching effect that can ruin towels, clothes, and even hair.
Yes. As long as it isn’t irritating your skin or drying you out, you can use a benzoyl peroxide face wash every day.
Shannon Ullmanis a writer who specializes in health and wellness, writing for sites like Insider Inc. and MindBodyGreen. She has been using Replenix Acne Wash + Aloe Vera for four months, to try to remedy the dry skin that winter brings.
2 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Matin T, Goodman MB.Benzoyl peroxide. In: StatPearls.StatPearls Publishing; 2023.Shi J, Cheng JW, Zhang Q, Hua ZX, Miao X.Comparison of the skin microbiota of patients with acne vulgaris and healthy controls.Ann Palliat Med. 2021;10(7):7933-7941. doi:10.21037/apm-21-1482Additional ReadingMatin T, Goodman MB.Benzoyl peroxide.StatPearls. StatPearls PublishingShi J, Cheng JW, Zhang Q, Hua ZX, Miao X.Comparison of the skin microbiota of patients with acne vulgaris and healthy controls.Ann Palliat Med. 2021;10(7):7933-7941. doi:10.21037/apm-21-1482
2 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Matin T, Goodman MB.Benzoyl peroxide. In: StatPearls.StatPearls Publishing; 2023.Shi J, Cheng JW, Zhang Q, Hua ZX, Miao X.Comparison of the skin microbiota of patients with acne vulgaris and healthy controls.Ann Palliat Med. 2021;10(7):7933-7941. doi:10.21037/apm-21-1482Additional ReadingMatin T, Goodman MB.Benzoyl peroxide.StatPearls. StatPearls PublishingShi J, Cheng JW, Zhang Q, Hua ZX, Miao X.Comparison of the skin microbiota of patients with acne vulgaris and healthy controls.Ann Palliat Med. 2021;10(7):7933-7941. doi:10.21037/apm-21-1482
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Matin T, Goodman MB.Benzoyl peroxide. In: StatPearls.StatPearls Publishing; 2023.Shi J, Cheng JW, Zhang Q, Hua ZX, Miao X.Comparison of the skin microbiota of patients with acne vulgaris and healthy controls.Ann Palliat Med. 2021;10(7):7933-7941. doi:10.21037/apm-21-1482
Matin T, Goodman MB.Benzoyl peroxide. In: StatPearls.StatPearls Publishing; 2023.
Shi J, Cheng JW, Zhang Q, Hua ZX, Miao X.Comparison of the skin microbiota of patients with acne vulgaris and healthy controls.Ann Palliat Med. 2021;10(7):7933-7941. doi:10.21037/apm-21-1482
Matin T, Goodman MB.Benzoyl peroxide.StatPearls. StatPearls PublishingShi J, Cheng JW, Zhang Q, Hua ZX, Miao X.Comparison of the skin microbiota of patients with acne vulgaris and healthy controls.Ann Palliat Med. 2021;10(7):7933-7941. doi:10.21037/apm-21-1482
Matin T, Goodman MB.Benzoyl peroxide.StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing
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