Ultra Acne Treatment Cream
Ultra Acne Treatment Cream
Product Description
A dermatologist-tested spot treatment cream with 5% Benzoyl Peroxide that visibly reduces pimple size and redness in as little as 4 hours. This maximum-strength acne medication penetrates deep into pores to fight breakouts at their source while being gentle enough for daily use.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Rapid Action Technology
Acceladerm technology accelerates delivery of acne medication deep into pores for faster visible results.
Antibacterial Power
Benzoyl Peroxide kills C. acnes bacteria that cause inflammatory breakouts without promoting antibiotic resistance.
Keratolytic Action
Helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores to prevent new breakouts from forming.
Vanishing Formula
Blends into skin without leaving white residue, making it suitable for daytime wear under makeup.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
FDA Category C. Only about 5% of topical benzoyl peroxide is absorbed systemically and is rapidly excreted. Generally considered low-risk, but consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Minimal systemic absorption makes it unlikely to appear in breast milk. Avoid applying to chest area and ensure baby does not contact treated skin.
While benzoyl peroxide has some antimicrobial activity against Malassezia yeast, it is not primarily an antifungal. May help by unclogging pores but not ideal as sole treatment for fungal acne.
Benzoyl peroxide increases photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen when using this product and avoid excessive sun exposure.
Simple formula with minimal pore-clogging ingredients. Rated 1/5 on comedogenic scale, suitable for acne-prone skin.
Benzoyl peroxide can bleach hair, towels, pillowcases, and colored clothing. Use white linens and allow product to fully absorb before contact with fabrics.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Proven
The gold standard OTC acne treatment that works by releasing oxygen into pores to kill acne-causing bacteria. Also acts as a mild keratolytic to help shed dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.
- Mechanism: Releases free radicals that destroy bacterial cell walls of C. acnes
- Clinical Evidence: Proven effective in numerous clinical trials for mild to moderate acne
- Advantage: Unlike topical antibiotics, bacteria cannot develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide
οΏ½ite Bentonite Supporting Proven
A natural clay mineral with excellent oil-absorbing properties. Helps draw out impurities and excess sebum from pores while providing a smooth application texture.
- Function: Oil absorption and mattifying effect
- Benefit: Helps reduce shine and controls excess sebum
π‘οΈ Pyridoxine Hydroxybenzoate Supporting Promising
A vitamin B6 derivative with antioxidant properties that helps protect the skin from oxidative stress while supporting the overall formula stability.
- Function: Antioxidant protection
- Benefit: Helps reduce inflammation and supports skin healing
4 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
Inactive Ingredients: Bentonite, Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate, Pyridoxine Hydroxybenzoate
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply as a spot treatment or thin layer after cleansing. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying moisturizer. Always follow with SPF during daytime.
π How to Use
Cleanse Thoroughly
Wash face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry completely. Clean skin allows better product penetration.
Apply Thin Layer
Apply a thin layer to affected areas or use as spot treatment directly on pimples. A little goes a long way.
Start Slowly
Begin with once daily application. If tolerated, gradually increase to 2-3 times daily as needed.
Follow with Moisturizer
Wait for product to absorb, then apply non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent dryness and irritation.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne
- You experience occasional breakouts and need fast relief
- You want an affordable, proven OTC treatment
- You prefer a simple, minimal ingredient formula
- Previous treatments caused antibiotic resistance concerns
- You need an FSA/HSA eligible product
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive or eczema-prone skin
- You experience severe cystic acne (see a dermatologist)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (need antifungal treatment)
- You cannot tolerate any dryness or peeling
- You use prescription retinoids without doctor guidance
- You are allergic to benzoyl peroxide
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal for oily skin. Bentonite clay helps absorb excess oil while benzoyl peroxide treats breakouts. Matte finish is a bonus.
Works well as spot treatment on oily T-zone areas. Apply only to breakout-prone zones and moisturize dry areas.
Effective for occasional breakouts. Use as spot treatment rather than all-over application to prevent unnecessary drying.
Use sparingly as spot treatment only. May increase dryness. Always follow with rich moisturizer and start with every other day.
Patch test first. Start with lowest frequency. Consider buffering with moisturizer underneath. Discontinue if persistent irritation occurs.
Specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Low comedogenic rating with proven antibacterial action against breakout-causing bacteria.
π Results Timeline
Visible Reduction in Redness
Active pimples appear less inflamed and red. Rapid action technology delivers medication deep into pores quickly.
70% noticed immediate improvementReduced Pimple Size
Existing breakouts start to shrink and flatten. White heads may come to a head faster before clearing.
65% saw pimples reduce significantlyFewer New Breakouts
Consistent use leads to fewer new pimples forming as bacteria population decreases and pores stay clearer.
75% experienced fewer breakoutsOverall Clearer Skin
Significant improvement in overall skin clarity. Continued use helps maintain results and prevent future breakouts.
80% reported clearer complexionβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Fast-acting formula shows visible results within hours
- Affordable drugstore price point
- Dermatologist-tested and recommended
- Simple, minimal ingredient formula
- FSA/HSA eligible purchase
- No antibiotic resistance concerns
- Vanishing formula works under makeup
- Widely available at most retailers
β Criticized
- Can cause dryness, peeling, and irritation
- Bleaches fabrics, hair, and towels
- Small tube size runs out quickly
- May not work for severe cystic acne
- Increases sun sensitivity
- 4-hour claim may not hold for all users
- Not suitable for very sensitive skin
- Mild medicinal scent
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Lower concentration (2.5% vs 5% BP) makes it gentler for beginners. May take slightly longer to work but less irritating. Better for sensitive skin types.
Higher concentration (10% vs 5% BP) for stubborn acne. Gel texture vs cream. More drying but may work faster on resistant breakouts.
Wash-off formula vs leave-on treatment. Less drying since it rinses off. Good alternative for body acne or those who cant tolerate leave-on BP.
Larger 8oz size offers better value long-term. Lower concentration with gentle formula. Cult favorite in skincare communities. Ships directly from brand.
π Comparison with Competitors
Clearasil Ultra Acne Treatment Cream
~$8Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne
~$10La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo
~$37Paula's Choice Clear Daily Skin
~$24π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
6-12 months after opening. Benzoyl peroxide is inherently unstable and degrades over time.
Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store above 25Β°C (77Β°F). Keep cap tightly closed.
Squeeze tube with screw cap. Opaque packaging helps protect active ingredient from light degradation.
Yes, 1 oz (28g) is TSA compliant for carry-on luggage. Small compact tube fits easily in toiletry bags.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Benzoyl peroxide is classified as FDA Category C for pregnancy. Only about 5% is absorbed through the skin and is rapidly converted to benzoic acid and excreted. While generally considered low-risk, its recommended to consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, the product is considered low-risk due to minimal systemic absorption, but avoid applying to the chest area and ensure baby does not contact treated skin.
Benzoyl peroxide has some antimicrobial activity against Malassezia yeast according to research studies, but it is not primarily an antifungal agent. While it may help by increasing cell turnover and unclogging pores, its not the optimal treatment for confirmed fungal acne. If you suspect fungal acne, consider dedicated antifungal treatments like ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione products, and consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis.
Caution is advised when combining benzoyl peroxide with these ingredients. BP can oxidize and deactivate retinol and vitamin C, making both less effective. Using BP with AHAs or BHAs can cause excessive dryness and irritation. The safest approach is to use benzoyl peroxide in the morning and retinol/vitamin C at night, or alternate days. Never layer these ingredients directly on top of each other.
This product works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The bentonite clay helps absorb excess oil while benzoyl peroxide treats breakouts. Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it as a spot treatment but should start slowly and always follow with moisturizer. Very sensitive skin types may want to consider a lower concentration BP product first.
The product claims to visibly reduce redness and pimple size in as little as 4 hours for active breakouts. However, results vary by individual. Most users notice meaningful improvement in existing pimples within 1-3 days. For overall clearer skin and prevention of new breakouts, consistent use for 4-6 weeks is typically needed. If no improvement after 6-8 weeks, consult a dermatologist.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer. For spot treatment, apply directly to pimples. For all-over treatment, apply a thin layer to affected areas. Wait 1-2 minutes to allow absorption before applying moisturizer. In the morning, always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen. Can be used morning and/or night depending on skin tolerance.
No, this product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The simple formula contains no oils or heavy emollients that could clog pores. In fact, benzoyl peroxide helps unclog pores through its keratolytic (skin cell shedding) action. The formula is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and is unlikely to cause additional breakouts.
Benzoyl peroxide products typically have a shelf life of 6-12 months after opening. The active ingredient is inherently unstable and degrades when exposed to light, heat, and air. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Discard if the product changes color, texture, or develops an unusual smell. Unopened tubes stored properly can last 2-3 years.
Verdict: Clearasil Ultra Acne Treatment Cream is a reliable, affordable, and fast-acting spot treatment that delivers on its promises for mild to moderate acne. The 5% benzoyl peroxide concentration strikes a good balance between efficacy and tolerability, making it suitable for most acne sufferers. While it may cause some dryness and the fabric-bleaching issue requires careful handling, the quick results and drugstore accessibility make it a solid choice for anyone seeking an effective OTC acne solution. Best suited for oily and combination skin types who need rapid relief from inflammatory breakouts.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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
|
|
| 2 |
Bentonite
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Suspending Agent -Nonsurfactant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate
|
|
|
| 0 |
Pyridoxine Hydroxybenzoate
Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant
|
|