These Acne-Fighters with Benzoyl Peroxide Make Breakouts Disappear

We updated this article in December 2022 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by Good Housekeeping Institute scientists and editors. Our original top-rated picks remain the same, with the addition of Jori, Slmd and another PanOxyl product.

Whether you're someone who is constantly battling breakouts or you just get the occasional pimple, you've probably heard of (or even tried) benzoyl peroxide, one of the top FDA-approved acne-fighting ingredient recommended by dermatologists. "Benzoyl peroxide has been used to treat acne for over 85 years," says Christine Choi Kim, M.D., a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Los Angeles, CA. "Benzoyl peroxide is the ultimate multi-tasker: It's antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, keratolytic [meaning it breaks up the top layer of dead skin cells] and comedolytic [meaning it dissolves blackheads and whiteheads]." The powerful acne-blasting ingredient can also help kill certain bacteria that contribute to acne formation, making it key for pimple prevention too.

How does it do all of these amazing acne-fighting treatments? "Benzoyl peroxide is oil soluble, allowing it to effectively enter sebum-filled pores to kill bacteria and dissolve dead skin cells," explains Chiara Butler, a Reviews Analyst in the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. And while it is definitely an ingredient to have in your acne-fighting routine, Butler warns that it can bleach clothing, colored towels or even your hair. "I recommend using a headband to keep your hair off of your face while using a benzoyl peroxide wash and drying off with a white towel after using a benzoyl peroxide face or body wash to prevent any staining," she adds.

Here are the best benzoyl peroxide products you can buy to clear your skin for good, according to dermatologists, the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab skincare product experts and glowing online reviews, including top-rated gels, spot treatments, face washes and more.