What is the best anti-acne prescription medicine? Is it benzoyl peroxide?

Absolutely. Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) is the number one anti-acne prescription and OTC medicine out there. It is by far the most effective single-agent anti-acne cream, significantly better than higher priced and less effective medication such as Differin and azelaic acid. Medications American Academy of Dermatology Acne treatment guidelines, 2016).

Why is Benzoyl Peroxide so effective?
Benzoyl peroxide prevents and treats inflammatory acne (cysts, red pimples, and zits) and non-inflammatory (blackheads and whiteheads).

The four major anti-acne active functions of Benzoyl Peroxide:
1. Benzoyl peroxide is a very effective anti-bacterial agent. It causes the release of free oxygen, which is lethal to the P. acne bacteria.
2. Benzoyl peroxide has significant comedolytic effects – it unclogs pores and prevents the formation of new comedones (blackheads and whiteheads).
3. In contrast to many other water-soluble anti-acne medications that can only affect the skin’s surface, benzoyl peroxide is lipophilic (oil-loving). As a lipophilic molecule, benzoyl peroxide can dive into an oil-filled pore, unclogging the sebaceous gland and killing the acne bacteria.
4. Benzoyl peroxide is anti-inflammatory and can promote faster lesion healing with fewer post-acne spots.

Best Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% (Amazon).
Best Benzoyl Peroxide 5% (Amazon).
Best Salicylic Acid 2% Cream (Amazon).

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