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24 Hour Acne Serum

24 Hour Acne Serum

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A dual-action acne treatment serum combining USP-grade Micronized Benzoyl Peroxide 5% and Glycolic Acid 5% to kill acne-causing bacteria, unclog pores, and reduce breakouts within 24 hours. Goes on clear, works on face and body.

Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Glycolic Acid 5% Dermatologist Recommended Paraben Free Sulfate Free Fragrance Free Cruelty Free Gluten Free Goes On Clear 80K+ Sold
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
1.1 oz / 32.5 ml
Type
Treatment Serum
Concern
Acne & Breakouts
Best Used
PM (or AM/PM)
Grade
USP Medical
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Kills Acne Bacteria on Contact

USP-grade micronized Benzoyl Peroxide 5% penetrates deep into pores to eliminate P. acnes bacteria and reduce inflammation within hours.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Gel
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
30–60 seconds
Finish
Matte / Clear

Kills Acne Bacteria on Contact

USP-grade micronized Benzoyl Peroxide 5% penetrates deep into pores to eliminate P. acnes bacteria and reduce inflammation within hours.

Exfoliates & Resurfaces

Glycolic Acid 5% gently dissolves dead skin cells, unclogs pores, increases cell turnover, and helps reduce acne scarring over time.

Soothes While Treating

Botanical extracts including Calendula, Echinacea, and Allantoin calm irritation and reduce redness so your skin stays comfortable.

Goes On Clear

Unlike white-cast BP products, this serum applies completely clear, making it suitable for use under makeup or on its own day or night.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Benzoyl Peroxide is FDA Category C but ACOG considers topical BP generally acceptable during pregnancy due to minimal absorption (~5%). Glycolic Acid 5% is also considered low risk. Consult your OB-GYN before use. Avoid applying to breast area while nursing.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

No ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils. This formula is safe for fungal acne-prone skin. Benzoyl Peroxide may also help reduce Malassezia overgrowth.

Non-Comedogenic

Oil-free, silicone-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Unlikely to clog pores or contribute to breakouts.

Sun Sensitivity

Both Benzoyl Peroxide and Glycolic Acid increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this product.

Bleaching Warning

Benzoyl Peroxide can bleach towels, pillowcases, and clothing. Use white linens or allow product to fully absorb before contact with fabrics.

Purging Period

Initial breakouts (purging) may occur in the first 2–4 weeks as the formula accelerates cell turnover. This is normal and typically subsides.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Benzoyl Peroxide (USP Grade, Micronized) 5%Gold Standard

The most well-researched topical acne ingredient available. USP-grade means it meets or exceeds purity standards set by the United States Pharmacopeia. Micronized particles allow deeper pore penetration with less surface irritation.

  • Mechanism: Generates oxygen inside pores, killing anaerobic P. acnes bacteria on contact
  • Efficacy: 2.5% and 5% concentrations shown equally effective; 5% offers faster initial results
  • Unique: No bacterial resistance has ever been reported to Benzoyl Peroxide, unlike topical antibiotics
  • Oil control: Brand claims up to 85% reduction in pore oil production
BP is a pro-oxidant. Pair with an antioxidant serum (AM) and sunscreen for best long-term skin health. Can cause dryness, peeling, and redness — start slowly.

Glycolic Acid 5%Proven

The most researched Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), derived from sugar cane. At 5%, it provides gentle yet effective chemical exfoliation to keep pores clear and boost cell renewal.

  • Action: Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting faster shedding and renewal
  • Pore clearing: Removes cellular debris from inside pores, helping prevent comedones
  • Bonus: Stimulates natural hyaluronic acid production, improving skin hydration over time
  • Scarring: Regular use helps fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and smooth acne scars

Calendula Officinalis Flower ExtractPromising

A soothing botanical with well-documented anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Helps calm irritation caused by acne and the active ingredients in this formula.

  • Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing support
  • Benefit: Helps moisturize dry or chapped skin, counteracting the drying effects of BP

AllantoinProven

Derived from the comfrey plant, Allantoin is a well-known skin protectant that soothes, heals, and promotes healthy cell growth. Helps offset potential irritation from active ingredients.

  • Soothing: Calms irritated and inflamed skin, reducing redness and discomfort
  • Healing: Promotes healthy tissue formation and supports the skin's natural repair process

Echinacea Purpurea ExtractPromising

Coneflower extract with natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally used to support the body's immune response, it helps reduce skin inflammation associated with acne.

  • Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce swelling and redness around active breakouts
  • Antiseptic: Provides additional antimicrobial support alongside Benzoyl Peroxide

Gluconolactone (PHA)Proven

A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides gentle exfoliation with additional antioxidant and moisturizing benefits. Larger molecular size makes it less irritating than AHAs alone.

  • Gentle exfoliation: Complements glycolic acid without compounding irritation significantly
  • Humectant: Attracts moisture to the skin, helping counterbalance the drying effects of BP

15 ingredients

Active: Benzoyl Peroxide 5%. Inactive: Deionized Water, Glycolic Acid, Sclerotium Gum, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Allantoin, Echinacea Purpurea Extract, Hydrastis Canadensis (Golden Seal) Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf Stem Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Glycerin, Gluconolactone, Sodium Benzoate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Added Fragrance, Oils, Silicones, Gluten, Alcohol, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Hydroquinone, Retinoids, Salicylic Acid
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
This Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Apply after cleansing and toning on clean, dry skin. Wait 1–2 minutes before layering moisturizer on top. Always follow with SPF in the morning.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Thoroughly

Wash your face with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser and pat dry. Ensure skin is completely clean and dry before application.

2

Apply a Thin Layer

Dispense a pea-sized amount and spread a thin, even layer over the face and neck. Avoid the eye area, lips, and mouth. Can also be used as a spot treatment.

3

Let It Absorb

Allow the serum to fully absorb for 1–2 minutes before applying any additional products. The formula goes on clear with no white residue.

4

Follow with Moisturizer & SPF

Apply a hydrating moisturizer to offset potential dryness. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen. Use once daily to start, building up to twice daily as tolerated.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (pimples, whiteheads, blackheads)
  • You deal with hormonal or cyclical breakouts
  • You want a clear-drying formula that works under makeup
  • You need a treatment for face AND body acne (back, chest)
  • You have oily or combination skin prone to excess sebum
  • You prefer fragrance-free, clean formulas

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have very dry or sensitive skin that reacts easily to actives
  • You are already using prescription retinoids (risk of over-exfoliation)
  • You have a known allergy to Benzoyl Peroxide
  • You want a purely hydrating serum with no active treatment ingredients
  • You have severe cystic acne requiring prescription intervention
  • You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Ideal match. BP reduces sebum production up to 85%, and the oil-free gel formula won't add shine. Lightweight and matte-finishing.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Works well on oily T-zone breakouts. Apply to acne-prone areas only and follow with moisturizer on drier zones.

Normal Skin
Good

Effective for occasional breakouts. Pair with a good moisturizer since BP can be drying even on balanced skin.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Can be drying — use as a spot treatment rather than full-face. Always layer a rich moisturizer on top. Start with once every other day.

Sensitive Skin
Moderate

The dual-active formula (BP + AHA) may be too intense for very reactive skin. Patch test first and start with spot application only.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

This product was specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fungal acne safe formula.

08

Results timeline

8–12 WEEKS
24 Hours

Immediate Breakout Reduction

Active pimples appear visibly smaller and less inflamed. Bacteria-killing action begins immediately upon application. Excess oil on the skin surface is noticeably reduced.

70% noticed overnight improvement
1–2 Weeks

Clearer Complexion Emerging

Existing breakouts dry out and heal faster. Pores begin to look cleaner. Some users may experience initial purging as clogged pores clear out — this is normal.

65% reported fewer new breakouts
4–6 Weeks

Significant Acne Reduction

Consistent use leads to markedly fewer breakouts. Glycolic acid's exfoliating effects smooth skin texture and begin fading post-acne marks. Oil production is better controlled.

80% saw major improvement
8–12 Weeks

Sustained Clear Skin

Full results achieved with ongoing use. Acne scarring and hyperpigmentation continue to fade. Skin texture is smoother and more refined. Breakout frequency is significantly reduced.

85% reported sustained clarity
09

Ratings by platform

1K+ REVIEWS
DRMTLGY.com
4.87
Rating
450+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can be very drying if used too liberally — a little goes a long way
Amazon
4.5
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small bottle size (1.1 oz) for the price point
Ulta Beauty
4.6
Rating
80+
Reviews
Main complaint: Initial purging phase can be discouraging before results appear
Influenster
4.4
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Extremely drying when applied full-face — better as a spot treatment for some
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Visibly reduces breakouts overnight for many users
  • Goes on completely clear — no white residue
  • Dual-action formula (BP + AHA) for treatment and exfoliation
  • Works on face AND body acne
  • Clean formula: paraben-free, sulfate-free, fragrance-free
  • USP-grade BP is the purest form available OTC
  • Dermatologist recommended by 2,000+ dermatologists
  • A little goes a long way — bottle lasts 2+ months
  • 60-day money-back guarantee

Criticized

  • Can be very drying, especially when applied full-face
  • Small bottle size (1.1 oz) feels expensive at $23
  • May bleach towels, pillowcases, and clothing
  • Initial purging period can last 2–4 weeks
  • Not moisturizing enough to use without follow-up moisturizer
  • Dual actives (BP + Glycolic) may be too intense for sensitive skin
  • Increases sun sensitivity — requires daily SPF commitment
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
70% Match
Stubborn Acne AM Face Treatment
$10.99
Budget Pick

Lower BP concentration (2.5% vs 5%) and no glycolic acid. Larger size (2 oz) at half the price. Includes dimethicone for smoother finish but no botanical soothing extracts. Better for BP beginners.

65% Match
Terminator 10 Acne Spot Treatment
$7.99
Budget Pick

Higher BP concentration (10% vs 5%) but no glycolic acid or soothing botanicals. Much more affordable but also more likely to cause dryness and irritation. Best for spot treatment only.

60% Match
Acne Gel Wash
$11.49
Budget Pick

Wash-off cleanser format (not leave-on like DRMTLGY). Lower concentration and shorter contact time means less potent, but gentler option. No glycolic acid. Great as a complementary cleanser step.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
1% Retinol Treatment
Key Actives BP 2.5% only
Size 2.25 oz (67 ml)
Price per oz $11.11/oz
Format Leave-on Lotion
Soothing Botanicals Bisabolol + Allantoin
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
Key Actives BP 4% only
Size 5 oz (150 ml)
Price per oz $3.40/oz
Format Wash-off Cleanser
Soothing Botanicals Ceramides + Niacinamide
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Stubborn Acne AM Face Treatment
Key Actives BP 2.5% only
Size 2 oz (56 ml)
Price per oz $5.50/oz
Format Leave-on Treatment
Soothing Botanicals None
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed. Do not store above 77°F (25°C) to minimize benzene formation risk in BP products.

Packaging

Pump bottle with airless dispensing system for hygienic, precise application

Travel Friendly

Yes — 1.1 oz is well under the 3.4 oz / 100 ml TSA carry-on liquid limit

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. Benzoyl Peroxide is FDA Category C, but the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers topical BP generally acceptable during pregnancy because only about 5% is absorbed systemically and it is rapidly metabolized into benzoic acid and excreted. Glycolic Acid at 5% is also considered low risk. However, there are no controlled human studies, so always consult your OB-GYN before starting any acne treatment during pregnancy. While breastfeeding, BP is considered low risk — just avoid applying to the breast area and ensure your baby's skin does not contact treated areas.

Yes. This formula contains no ferments, fatty acids (like oleic or lauric acid), fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The ingredient list is remarkably clean with only 15 ingredients. Additionally, Benzoyl Peroxide may actually help control fungal overgrowth due to its broad antimicrobial properties, making this a solid choice for those dealing with both bacterial acne and fungal acne simultaneously.

Be careful with layering. This serum already contains Glycolic Acid (AHA) 5%, so adding additional AHA or BHA products on the same application can lead to over-exfoliation, irritation, and a damaged skin barrier. Retinol: Avoid using on the same night — alternate evenings (BP one night, retinol the next). Vitamin C: Use Vitamin C in the morning and this serum at night, as BP can oxidize and reduce Vitamin C efficacy. BHA (Salicylic Acid): Not recommended to layer on top — the combined drying effect can be harsh. Always introduce new combinations gradually.

This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. People with oily skin benefit most since BP helps reduce sebum production (up to 85% according to the brand). It also works well for normal skin with occasional breakouts. Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it but should apply it as a spot treatment rather than full-face and always follow with a rich moisturizer. The brand states it is safe for dry, oily, combination, and normal skin types.

Many users report visible reduction in active breakouts within the first 24 hours. Significant improvement in overall acne and skin clarity typically occurs within 4–6 weeks of consistent use. Some users experience an initial purging phase during weeks 1–3 where existing clogged pores come to the surface — this is temporary and a sign the product is working. For full results including scar fading and texture improvement, allow 8–12 weeks of regular use.

Apply as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. Apply to clean, dry skin. Wait 1–2 minutes for full absorption before layering your moisturizer on top. In the AM, always finish with SPF 30+. For nighttime use, apply after cleansing and follow with a hydrating night cream. The brand recommends starting once daily (preferably PM) and increasing to twice daily as tolerated.

No. This serum has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, making it very unlikely to clog pores. The formula is completely oil-free and silicone-free with only 15 ingredients. It contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, both active ingredients (Benzoyl Peroxide and Glycolic Acid) actively work to unclog pores and dissolve the buildup that causes comedones (blackheads and whiteheads).

The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Despite the small 1.1 oz bottle, most users report it lasting 2–3 months with daily use since only a pea-sized amount is needed per application. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Proper storage is especially important for Benzoyl Peroxide products — avoid storing above 77°F (25°C) to maintain product stability and safety.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: DRMTLGY 24 Hour Acne Serum is a potent, no-nonsense acne treatment that delivers on its promise of fast results. The combination of USP-grade Benzoyl Peroxide 5% and Glycolic Acid 5% makes it more powerful than most OTC alternatives that rely on BP alone. The inclusion of six soothing botanical extracts helps offset irritation, and the clean, fragrance-free formula is a welcome bonus. The main trade-offs are the small bottle size relative to the price and the potential for dryness — but for oily and acne-prone skin types seeking a clear-drying, medical-grade treatment backed by 2,000+ dermatologists, this is one of the most effective options available without a prescription.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Gluconolactone
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Allantoin Glycerin
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Benzoyl Peroxide Glycolic Acid
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1 1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
53% 26% 20%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 15 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
3 Unknown
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
ache Ache-fighting
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
4 B
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
1 A
Sclerotium Gum
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising
0 Unknown
Arnica Montana Flower Extract
Masking, Perfuming, Skin Conditioning
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS