AC Moderate Strength 5% Acne Wash
AC Moderate Strength 5% Acne Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-tested benzoyl peroxide wash that kills up to 94% of acne-causing bacteria while the proprietary Acrylates Copolymer (AC) technology absorbs excess oil and releases glycerin to keep skin hydrated. Perfect for treating mild to moderate acne on face, chest, and back.
Kills Acne Bacteria
5% Benzoyl Peroxide eliminates up to 94% of P. acnes bacteria that cause breakouts, with no bacterial resistance.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Acne Bacteria
5% Benzoyl Peroxide eliminates up to 94% of P. acnes bacteria that cause breakouts, with no bacterial resistance.
Unblocks Pores
Keratolytic and comedolytic properties help clear blackheads, whiteheads, and prevent new breakouts from forming.
AC Technology
Proprietary Acrylates Copolymer beads absorb excess oil while releasing glycerin to maintain skin hydration.
Gentle Formula
Oil-free, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-tested formula suitable for daily use on face, chest, and back.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEGenerally considered low-risk. Only 5% is absorbed and rapidly excreted. ACOG suggests benzoyl peroxide is acceptable during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.
Considered safe as minimal amounts enter breast milk. Avoid applying to chest area and ensure baby doesn't contact treated skin. NHS approved for breastfeeding.
Research shows BP has potent microbicidal activity against Malassezia species. The formula is also free from fungal-feeding ingredients like fatty acids and ferments.
Oil-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 0. Will not clog pores or contribute to additional breakouts.
Benzoyl peroxide can bleach towels, pillowcases, and clothing. Use white linens and rinse thoroughly after application.
BP increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this product.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 5%Gold Standard
The most effective OTC acne treatment available. Works by releasing oxygen that kills P. acnes bacteria, while providing keratolytic (pore-unblocking) and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Efficacy: Kills up to 94% of acne-causing bacteria within 1 week
- No Resistance: Unlike antibiotics, bacteria cannot develop resistance to BP
- Mechanism: Releases reactive oxygen species that destroy bacterial cell walls
Acrylates CopolymerProprietary AC Technology
Benzac's signature technology that sets it apart from other BP washes. These microscopic polymer beads absorb excess sebum while simultaneously releasing glycerin to maintain skin hydration.
- Oil Control: Absorbs excess sebum without over-drying
- Hydration Release: Delivers glycerin as it absorbs oil
- Film Former: Creates protective barrier on skin
Glycerin (Glycerol)Humectant
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Studies show glycerin is more effective than hyaluronic acid for hydration. Helps counteract the drying effects of benzoyl peroxide.
- Hydration: Attracts water to deep skin layers
- Barrier Support: Maintains healthy skin lipid structure
- Comedogenicity: 0 - completely non-comedogenic
Carbomer 940Texture
A polymer that creates the smooth gel texture and helps distribute the active ingredient evenly across the skin. Also helps stabilize the formula.
- Function: Thickening and gelling agent
- Feel: Creates non-tacky, smooth application
- Concentration: Typically used at 1% or less
8 ingredients
Benzoyl Peroxide (50 mg/g), Acrylates Copolymer, Glycerol, Carbomer 940, Sodium C14-C16 Olefin Sulfonate, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Purified Water.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your acne-fighting routine. Can be used on face, chest, and back. Follow with Benzac AC Gel for enhanced results.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet the Skin
In the shower or at the sink, wet the areas you want to treat with lukewarm water.
Apply & Lather
Dispense a small amount and work into a lather. Massage onto affected areas including face, chest, or back.
Wait 30 Seconds
Leave the product on skin for 30 seconds to allow the benzoyl peroxide to work effectively.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with water and gently pat skin dry with a clean towel (use white towels to avoid bleaching).
Moisturize
Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Start with once daily use, building up to twice daily as tolerated.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne
- You suffer from body acne (back, chest, shoulders)
- You want a wash-off treatment that's easy to use
- You prefer fragrance-free, oil-free formulas
- Previous antibiotics have stopped working
- You need a non-comedogenic acne wash
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive or eczema-prone skin
- You're allergic to benzoyl peroxide
- You have severe cystic acne (see dermatologist)
- You cannot commit to using sunscreen daily
- You frequently wear dark-colored clothing
- You have open wounds or sunburned skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESAC technology absorbs excess oil effectively. BP helps control sebum production and keeps pores clear.
Glycerin release helps balance hydration while targeting oily, acne-prone zones effectively.
Gold standard treatment for bacterial acne. Non-comedogenic formula won't cause additional breakouts.
Effective for occasional breakouts. The glycerin helps maintain natural moisture balance.
May cause additional dryness. Use once daily and follow with a rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Start with every other day use. Consider 2.5% version first. Patch test recommended.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12Initial Adjustment Period
Skin may experience dryness, peeling, or mild redness as it adjusts to benzoyl peroxide. Some purging of existing congestion is normal. Existing pimples begin to dry out.
70% notice initial changesVisible Improvement Begins
New breakouts start to decrease significantly. Inflammatory acne reduces in size and redness. Skin begins to adjust to the treatment with less irritation.
80% see fewer new breakoutsSignificant Clearing
Majority of active acne cleared. Skin texture improves noticeably. Blackheads and whiteheads reduced. Oiliness better controlled throughout the day.
85% report clearer skinOptimal Results
Full treatment benefits achieved. Skin appears clearer with fewer breakouts. Continue use for maintenance. Consider adding spot treatment for occasional pimples.
90% achieve significant improvementRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Kills 94% of acne bacteria with no resistance
- AC technology prevents excessive drying
- Fragrance-free and oil-free formula
- Affordable compared to prescription options
- Effective for body acne (back, chest)
- Dermatologist tested and recommended
- Short 30-second contact time
- Works well with other acne treatments
Criticized
- Initial dryness and peeling common
- Bleaches fabrics and hair
- Can cause sun sensitivity
- Not suitable for very sensitive skin
- Purging period can be discouraging
- Less effective for cystic/hormonal acne
- Requires consistent daily use
- May irritate if used with other actives
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Lower BP concentration (4% vs 5%) with similar cleansing action. Contains fatty acids so not as fungal acne-safe. More widely available in US.
Lower BP (4%) but includes ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for added skin barrier support. More hydrating formula but contains ingredients that may feed fungal acne.
Same 5% BP concentration. Slightly different surfactant system. From the makers of Differin adapalene gel. Fungal acne safe formula.
Higher BP concentration (10%) for stubborn acne but may be more drying. Lacks the AC technology for oil absorption and glycerin release.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEBenzac AC 5% Wash
![Effaclar Duo [+] SPF 30](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0907/5028/8215/files/pg5xsf6ex00znkgwq00ls4pgcrl7.jpg?v=1774942416)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap for easy dispensing in the shower
200ml exceeds carry-on limits. Decant into smaller container or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQBenzoyl peroxide is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Only about 5% is absorbed through the skin and is rapidly excreted via urine. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) includes it as an acceptable OTC acne treatment during pregnancy. The NHS also confirms it's OK to use while breastfeeding, though you should avoid applying to the chest area and ensure baby doesn't contact treated skin. Always consult your healthcare provider before use.
Yes, Benzac AC 5% Wash is fungal acne safe. Scientific research published in the Journal of Dermatology shows that benzoyl peroxide has potent microbicidal activity against Malassezia species - the yeast responsible for fungal acne. The Malassezia yeast was found to be even more sensitive to BP than bacteria. Additionally, the formula is free from fatty acids, ferments, esters, and polysorbates that typically feed Malassezia.
Use caution when combining BP with other actives. Benzoyl peroxide can increase skin sensitivity, so layering with retinoids, vitamin C, or exfoliating acids may cause excessive irritation. If you want to use multiple actives, consider using BP in the morning and retinol at night, or alternate days. Never apply BP and vitamin C together as BP can oxidize and deactivate vitamin C. Start slowly and monitor your skin's tolerance.
Benzac AC 5% Wash is excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The AC technology absorbs excess oil while releasing glycerin, making it more balanced than standard BP washes. It's also suitable for normal skin with occasional breakouts. Those with dry or sensitive skin should start with the 2.5% version or use less frequently. Always follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Most users see initial improvement within 1-2 weeks, with significant clearing by 4-6 weeks. During the first week, you may experience purging (existing congestion coming to the surface) along with some dryness and peeling - this is normal. By week 4, approximately 85% of users report clearer skin. Optimal results are typically achieved at 8-12 weeks with consistent daily use. Continue use for maintenance.
Benzac AC 5% Wash is the first step in your skincare routine - it's a cleanser. Use it in the shower or at the sink, leave on for 30 seconds, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner (optional), treatment products (like Benzac AC Gel for spot treatment), moisturizer, and sunscreen in the morning. It can be used on face, chest, and back. Start with once daily and build up to twice daily as tolerated.
No, Benzac AC 5% Wash is non-comedogenic with a rating of 0/5. The oil-free, fragrance-free formula will not clog pores. In fact, benzoyl peroxide has comedolytic properties, meaning it actively helps to unblock existing pore congestion. The formula is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and has been dermatologist tested.
Benzac AC 5% Wash has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The benzoyl peroxide remains stable and effective throughout this period when stored properly. If the product changes color, smell, or consistency, discontinue use and replace.
Verdict: Benzac AC Moderate Strength 5% Acne Wash is an excellent, dermatologist-recommended option for treating mild to moderate acne. The proprietary AC technology sets it apart from competitors by absorbing excess oil while releasing glycerin to prevent over-drying. Its fungal acne-safe, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic formula makes it suitable for most acne-prone skin types. While initial dryness and the fabric-bleaching properties of BP require some adjustment, the proven 94% bacteria-killing efficacy and affordable price point make this a solid first-line acne treatment. Best for oily and combination skin; those with dry or very sensitive skin should start with the 2.5% version.
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
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
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylates Copolymer
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|