5 Acne Pimple Medication
5 Acne Pimple Medication
Product Description
Product overview
A pharmacy-grade spot treatment from OXY Malaysia (Rohto-Mentholatum) featuring a clinical 5% Benzoyl Peroxide formula. Designed to clear inflammatory pimples, kill acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes), unclog pores, and absorb excess sebum. Vanishing finish leaves no white cast — clinically proven results visible in 24 hours.
24-Hour Results
Clinically proven to reduce inflammation and pimple size within 24 hours of first application.
Texture & feel
SENSORY24-Hour Results
Clinically proven to reduce inflammation and pimple size within 24 hours of first application.
Kills C. acnes Bacteria
Releases active oxygen into pores to eliminate acne-causing bacteria with no risk of bacterial resistance.
Minimalist Formula
Only 3 ingredients total — no fragrance, alcohol, oils, or essential oils to trigger sensitive acne-prone skin.
Drugstore Price
One of the most affordable BPO 5% treatments globally, available at Watsons, Guardian, and pharmacies in SE Asia.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or ferments. Safe for malassezia-prone skin.
Unlike topical antibiotics, C. acnes cannot develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide.
Effects on pregnancy or unborn babies are not fully established. Consult your doctor before use.
BPO can bleach pillowcases, towels, and clothing. Use white linens or older garments at night.
May worsen itching, dryness, redness, or trigger flare-ups in compromised skin barriers.
Increases sun sensitivity. Daily SPF 30+ is mandatory while using this product.
Retinoids (in same step), Vitamin C (oxidizes BPO), and other strong actives — risk of irritation.
Benzoyl Peroxide is FDA-approved as a safe and effective OTC acne treatment.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 5%Proven
The gold-standard topical acne ingredient and the active hero of this formula. BPO works through three mechanisms: it releases free oxygen radicals that destroy Cutibacterium acnes (the bacteria behind inflammatory acne), exhibits keratolytic action to unclog pores, and reduces excess sebum production. The 5% strength is clinically proven to be just as effective as 10% concentrations while being meaningfully gentler on the skin barrier.
- FDA Status: Classified as safe and effective for OTC acne treatment
- Mechanism: Oxidative bactericidal action — no resistance development possible
- Clinical Evidence: Reduces inflammatory lesions visibly within 24–48 hours
- Comparative Studies: 2.5% and 5% perform equivalently to 10%, with fewer side effects
Methylparaben 0.15%Proven
A widely used cosmetic preservative that prevents the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in the formula. At 0.15%, it sits well below international safety limits (typically 0.4%) and has been used safely in skincare for decades. It ensures the product remains stable and microbe-free throughout its shelf life — essential for an acne treatment applied to compromised skin.
- EU Regulation: Approved at concentrations up to 0.4% (single) or 0.8% (mixed parabens)
- Function: Broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative
- Safety Record: Cleared for use by FDA, Health Canada, and EU SCCS
Propylparaben 0.05%Proven
Companion preservative paired with methylparaben to broaden antimicrobial coverage. At just 0.05% — extremely low by industry standards — it protects the formula from spoilage without contributing to irritation. The combination of two parabens at very low concentrations is a hallmark of pharmaceutical-grade minimalist formulations.
- Concentration: 0.05% — well below the 0.14% EU limit for propylparaben
- Pairing: Synergistic with methylparaben for full preservation coverage
- Skin Penetration: Minimal, with quick metabolic clearance
3 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Benzoyl Peroxide 5% w/w, Methylparaben 0.15% w/w, Propylparaben 0.05% w/w.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply only to active spots after cleansing on dry skin. Wait 1–2 minutes before layering hydrating products to lock in moisture and offset BPO dryness.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse and Pat Dry
Wash your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Pat skin completely dry — applying to wet skin can intensify irritation.
Shake the Bottle Well
The formula separates between uses, so a thorough shake before each application ensures even distribution of the active.
Dab Onto Pimples Only
Tap a small amount directly onto active blemishes — do not spread across the full face. Smooth gently until invisible.
Start Once Daily
Begin with one application per day (preferably evening). Gradually increase to twice daily after 5–7 days if tolerated.
Layer a Moisturizer Over
Wait 1–2 minutes, then apply a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to combat the drying effect of BPO.
Apply SPF Every Morning
BPO causes photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is non-negotiable to prevent sunburn and pigmentation.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You get inflammatory pimples (red, painful, pus-filled)
- You have oily or combination skin
- You want a fast-acting, drugstore-priced spot treatment
- You've used 2.5% BPO and need something stronger
- You have malassezia (fungal) acne
- You prefer minimalist, fragrance-free formulas
- Antibiotics have stopped working for your acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
- You suffer from rosacea or perioral dermatitis
- You only have blackheads or whiteheads (try a BHA instead)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult a doctor)
- You can't commit to daily sunscreen
- You have a known allergy to benzoyl peroxide
- You can't tolerate any initial purging or peeling
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESAbsorbs excess sebum and clears inflammation quickly. Vanishing matte finish suits oily complexions perfectly.
Spot-apply only to T-zone or breakout areas to target acne without drying out drier cheeks.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and one of the most effective ingredients ever studied for inflammatory acne.
Effective for occasional pimples but use sparingly to avoid drying out otherwise balanced skin.
Spot-only application is essential. Always layer with a rich moisturizer to prevent flaking and barrier damage.
5% BPO may be too aggressive for reactive skin. Patch test for 3 days; consider a 2.5% formula instead.
Results timeline
8–12 WEEKSVisible Inflammation Reduction
Redness and swelling around treated pimples noticeably calm down. Painful cystic spots feel less throbbing.
68% noticedPimples Begin to Shrink
Surface bumps flatten and whiteheads come to a head faster. Some users see active pimples disappear entirely within 2–3 days.
74% noticedPossible Initial Dryness or Purging
Some peeling, tightness, or temporary flare-up may occur as skin adjusts. This typically subsides with continued moisturization.
52% noticedMajor Reduction in New Breakouts
The formation of new inflammatory pimples slows significantly. Skin texture becomes more even and oil production reduces.
81% noticedClearer, More Stable Skin
With consistent use plus SPF and moisturizer, most users achieve significantly clearer skin. Post-acne marks (PIH) begin to fade.
76% noticedRatings by platform
8K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visible reduction in pimple inflammation within 24 hours
- Extremely affordable — approx. RM7–14 (USD 2–4) per tube
- Minimalist 3-ingredient formula with no fillers
- Vanishes invisibly under makeup with no white cast
- Fragrance-free and fungal-acne safe
- Easy to find at pharmacies across SE Asia
- 5% strength is the dermatologist-preferred concentration
- No bacterial resistance even with long-term use
Criticized
- Can cause stinging, peeling, and dryness initially
- Bleaches fabrics — pillowcases, towels, clothing
- Increases sun sensitivity (SPF mandatory)
- Not suitable for sensitive, eczema, or rosacea-prone skin
- Requires shaking before every use
- Some report post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Limited availability outside Malaysia & SE Asia
- Not recommended during pregnancy without doctor approval
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSame vanishing-cream concept with BPO 10% (stronger). More widely available globally but harsher on dry or sensitive skin.
Lower BPO concentration with hydrating ingredients added. Specifically formulated for fungal acne and gentler use.
Higher 10% BPO strength with similar minimalist approach. More drying but widely loved by US dermatologists.
Maximum-strength version with elegant gel texture and added glycerin. Less drying than typical 10% formulas.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. BPO oxidizes over time, reducing potency.
Store between 15–30°C (59–86°F) in a cool, dry place. Keep tightly sealed and away from heat or direct sunlight.
Squeeze tube with screw cap (10g or 25g). Hygienic and travel-friendly.
Yes — well under 100ml/100g and TSA-compliant. Compact 10g size is ideal for carry-on.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe effects of benzoyl peroxide on pregnancy or unborn babies are not fully established, and it is not known whether BPO passes into breast milk. While topical BPO is generally considered low-risk because of minimal systemic absorption, official guidance recommends consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Many dermatologists permit limited spot-only use, but always defer to your own doctor's recommendation.
Yes. The formula contains only Benzoyl Peroxide, Methylparaben, and Propylparaben — none of which feed malassezia yeast. There are no fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, oils, or fermented ingredients that typically trigger fungal acne. In fact, BPO itself is often recommended as part of fungal acne protocols due to its antimicrobial properties.
Use with caution. BPO can oxidize and deactivate vitamin C (ascorbic acid) when applied at the same time — separate them by morning/evening. Retinoids combined with BPO often cause excessive irritation; many dermatologists recommend alternating nights or using BPO in the morning and retinoids at night. AHAs and BHAs can be layered carefully in different routine steps but introduce them slowly to avoid over-exfoliation. Always patch test combinations.
OXY 5 is best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types dealing with inflammatory pimples (red, swollen, painful, or pus-filled). It works well for teens and adults with hormonal or bacterial acne. It is less suitable for very dry, sensitive, eczema-prone, or rosacea-prone skin, where the 5% concentration may compromise the skin barrier.
The brand claims clinically proven results in 24 hours, and many user reviews confirm visible reduction in inflammation within the first day. Pimples typically begin shrinking in 2–3 days as bacteria are eliminated. Significant reduction in new breakouts is usually seen at 4–6 weeks, with maximum results around 8–12 weeks of consistent use combined with proper hydration and SPF.
Apply OXY 5 after cleansing and toning, on completely dry skin, before any serums or moisturizers. Dab only onto active pimples — do not spread across the full face. Wait 1–2 minutes for it to vanish, then layer your hydrating serum, moisturizer, and (in the morning) sunscreen. Use once daily initially, increasing to twice daily if tolerated.
No. OXY 5 has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. None of its three ingredients (Benzoyl Peroxide, Methylparaben, Propylparaben) are pore-clogging. In fact, BPO is keratolytic, meaning it actively unclogs pores by helping shed dead skin cells. It is one of the most non-comedogenic acne treatments available.
OXY 5 has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Benzoyl peroxide is sensitive to heat, light, and air, so the product's potency decreases over time. Always store the tube tightly closed at room temperature (15–30°C) and away from direct sunlight. Discard the product 12 months after first opening or by the printed expiration date, whichever comes first.
Verdict: OXY 5 Acne Pimple Medication is a no-frills, pharmacy-grade workhorse for inflammatory acne — and one of the best value-for-money BPO treatments available globally. With just three ingredients and the dermatologist-preferred 5% concentration, it delivers visible 24-hour results, no fragrance, no fillers, and no risk of bacterial resistance. It's not for the faint of heart — expect initial dryness and a strict SPF commitment — but for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin facing stubborn pimples, this Malaysian classic is hard to beat. Just keep it away from your favorite pillowcase.
Product Overview
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.
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.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
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.
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
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
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.
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!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
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.
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 4 |
Methylparaben
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 7 |
Propylparaben
Perfuming, Fragrance, Preservative
|
|