According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin condition in the United States. It affects up to 50 million Americans each year—mostly adolescents—but up to 15 percent of women get adult acne, too. When it comes to skin care, one of the top dermatologist-recommended ingredients to effectively kill acne-causing bacteria is benzoyl peroxide, which is the star in Avène’s Cleanance ACNE Medicated Clearing Treatment. Here, what makes this product a must-have for anyone looking to get rid of pimples fast.
The Benefits of This Acne Treatment
In fact, it’s formulated with 5.5-percent micronized benzoyl peroxide, which means it’s even more effective. This is because the ingredient’s particle size is smaller and better able to penetrate the skin where it can elicit change. With consistent use, this treatment helps clear blackheads, whiteheads and acne blemishes. It’s especially helpful for those who have oily and acne-prone skin, as it also helps reduce excess oil. In clinical study on 14 people 13 to 55 years old, participants applied the cream three times a day. After just 72 hours, they demonstrated visibly clearer skin. After seven days, 55 percent of their pimples were gone.
One thing I love about this lightweight, fragrance-free cream is that it’s effective, but not at the cost of irritating the skin barrier. By balancing the benzoyl peroxide, which can be drying, with the brand’s signature Thermal Spring Water, it helps maintain a healthier (and happier) skin microbiome. Avène actually has 150 clinical studies proving the water’s ability to soothe, soften and calm the skin. Another helpful active in the formula is IBR-Dragon, which is an extract from the superfood dragonfruit that also supports the skin’s microbiome. However, if you have dry skin, you may want to use a hydrating serum or moisturizer while using this product. This is true for nearly all products with benzoyl peroxide.
Key Ingredients
Benzoyl peroxide, IBR-Dragon and Avène Thermal Spring Water
How to Use It
Wash your face, pat it dry and then apply the treatment wherever you have pimples. Cover the entire affected area with a thin layer one to three times a day. I personally recommend pairing this product with the brand’s Cleanance Gel Cleanser from the same collection. It uses 2-percent salicylic acid to remove excess oil from the skin and help clear acne. The salicylic acid in the cleanser and the benzoyl peroxide in the treatment make for a powerful combination in the fight against frustrating acne.
One important thing to note when using benzoyl peroxide products is that they can stain your clothes and towels. Therefore, I recommend using a white wash cloth, towel and/or pillowcase. And if you’re pulling your shirt over your head after applying it, keep this in mind!
