Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most common acne treatments you’ll find. You probably used it as a teenager without knowing why the product’s promise came true. One overlooked side effect besides (a very small chance of) potential allergies? It can bleach dyed fabrics, like pillowcases and towels.

Your acne is gonna love this: Goodbye acne-causing bacteria (aka Propionibacterium acnes). This ingredient zaps those microbes on contact, and unlike antibiotics, it won’t cause microbial resistance. In the right amounts, it can also act as a mild anti-inflammatory agent to calm your skin.

And in this case, less is more. Research shows that concentrations of 2.5 percent are just as effective at busting acne as products containing 10 percent benzoyl peroxide, with less side effects (dryness, irritation, and red, flaky skin).

Where to find it: Benzoyl peroxide is found in over the counter (OTC) creams and cleansers, at concentrations between 0.5 and 10 percent. You can use it, preventatively, all over your face, or as a spot treatment on pimples.