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Unclog pores, reduce excess oil, and clear blemishes with this heavy-hitting ingredient.
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If you prefer a cleanser, we recommend theDifferin Daily Deep Cleanser.
First, it inhibits the growth of P. acnes, the bacteria that causes acne, explains Chicago dermatologistDr.
Jordan Carqueville, M.D.
PHOTO: Amazon
This trio of attributes makes it ideal for those with inflammatory acnered, painful bumps and blemishes.
The other nice thing?
BPO, as its often called, comes in various formulas and products, from cleansers to creams.
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After consulting dermatologists and considering dozens of options, we landed on these top-rated picks.
It can also be used all over the face and solely on pimples that pop up.
Keyaira, tester:“This formula was effective for long-term results.
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I noticed an improvement with consistent usage of the product.
It did not help overcome huge breakouts but it did help to calm down little flare-ups.”
The featherweight lotion dries clear and matte and can be used on either face and/or body.
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Thats why we appreciate this formula, specially formulated to be ultra-gentle on skin.
It pairs 10% benzoyl peroxide with popular blemish-fighterstea tree oilandwillow bark, working toshrink your zitquickly.
As far as were concerned, a spot treatment should always make yourtravel bag.
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Best Splurge
Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.
And yes, moisturizing is crucial for every skin typeeven acne-prone!
Use it once daily, topping it withsunscreenif youre applying it in the a.m.
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Some reviewers note it can be drying (as many benzoyl peroxide-infused formulas can be!
), so you may want to use this product sparingly until you see how your skin reacts.
There are also ceramides to minimize water loss and further keep skin hydrated.
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Alongside 5% benzoyl peroxide isglycolic acid, willow bark extract, and niacinamide to banish blemishes for good.
Neutrogenas Stubborn Acne line takes the guesswork out of the equation.
According to the brand, it can help reduce blemish redness and size in about four hours.
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Enter: Cetaphil Gentle Clear Complexion-Clearing BPO Acne Cleanser.
The daily cleanser also offers a shine-reducing perk, soaking up excess oil with the help ofzinc.
(FYI, dryness can make fine lines and wrinkles more apparent.)
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While testing them, we rated them on the following factors:
“Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial agent.
Arielle Nagler, M.D.
“It also helps to prevent small pimples calledcomedones.”
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Regular use may even help preventacne scarsfrom forming.
you might typically use benzoyl peroxide as often as twice daily.
But if youre applying it during the day, Dr. Nagler advises pairing it with a strong SPF.
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Starting small and working your way up to multiple uses daily is always a good idea, too.
Melanie reviewed testing insights from Byrdies lab to help create the list of top picks.
Yang Z, Zhang Y, Lazic Mosler E, et al.Topical benzoyl peroxide for acne.Cochrane Database Syst Rev.
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doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011154.pub2
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Yang Z, Zhang Y, Lazic Mosler E, et al.Topical benzoyl peroxide for acne.
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2020;3(3):CD011154.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol.
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1986 Dec;25(10):664-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-4362.1986.tb04534.x.
PHOTO: Ulta
Am J Clin Dermatol.
2018 Apr;19(2):275-286. doi: 10.1007/s40257-018-0352-y.
PMID: 29549588; PMCID: PMC5978908.
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Am J Clin Dermatol.
2008;9(3):193-204. doi: 10.2165/00128071-200809030-00010.
Matin T, Goodman MB.Benzoyl peroxide.
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StatPearls Publishing; 2024.
PHOTO: Rodan+Fields
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