# Galderma Benzac AC 5 for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for France.

Brand: [Galderma](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/galderma)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for acne-prone skin; a few serums fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent treatment for your acne-prone skin as benzoyl peroxide effectively reduces acne lesions and blemishes by targeting bacteria, while glycerin provides essential hydration for combination skin.
- The formulation is highly suitable for combination skin, balancing the antimicrobial action of benzoyl peroxide with the humectant properties of glycerin to manage acne and maintain hydration.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your acne-prone skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Benzoyl Peroxide, Glycerin, Acrylates Copolymer, Silicon Dioxide, Propylene Glycol

## What the research says

- Topical benzoyl peroxide may improve acne more effectively than placebo or no treatment, while showing little to no difference compared with adapalene or clindamycin, but with an increased risk of treatment discontinuation due to adverse effects compared to placebo. ([The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Once-daily fixed-dose clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1%/adapalene 0.15% gel achieved superior treatment success (52.5%) and greater reductions in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions compared to vehicle (8.1%) and dyad component gels in participants with moderate-to-severe acne over 12 weeks. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34674160/))
- Formulating octyl methoxycinnamate into hybrid solid lipid-silica nanoparticles produced stable particles with high encapsulation efficiency and a non-irritation profile suitable for topical UV protection. ([Heliyon, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32395645/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- Topical clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1% gel achieved significantly greater treatment success and lesion reductions compared to vehicle in participants with moderate-to-severe acne. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37656094/))
- Daily application of adapalene 0.3%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel reduced and prevented atrophic acne scar formation, achieving a total scar count change of -15.5% versus +14.4% for vehicle over 24 weeks in 67 subjects with moderate or severe facial acne. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29549588/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- A functional cosmetic cream containing bioactive materials from Streptomyces sp. T65 embedded in SBA-15 decreased skin roughness by 4.670% and increased skin brightness by 0.472% after 4 weeks of application, while demonstrating antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-aging, and whitening activities. ([Antioxidants, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32224894/))
- Film-forming formulations containing porous silica achieved skin permeation rates comparable to immediate release formulations while confirming prolonged drug availability and causing no skin irritation in healthy volunteers. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28546105/))
- Topical treatment with silica mud and microalgae extracts from the Blue Lagoon improved skin barrier function by inducing epidermal gene expression and reducing transepidermal water loss in healthy humans, while preventing skin aging markers in vitro. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18312388/))
- Treatment with a combination of propylene glycol, ethanol, water, and shampoo was found effective, easy to use, and cosmetically attractive with no observed side effects in patients with dandruff. ([Cutis, 1988](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2970946/))
- A moisturizer containing glycerol and propylene glycol reduced transepidermal water loss, decreased epidermal thickness, increased stratum corneum thickness, and reduced dermal inflammatory infiltrate compared to untreated disrupted skin in six healthy beagle dogs. ([Veterinary Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32628309/))

## What reviewers say

Users report this gel is highly effective at drying out active acne and reducing inflammation, often showing results within a few days. It is frequently noted to be drying and can cause peeling or irritation, making it best suited for oily or tolerant skin types rather than sensitive skin.

- Disliked: Causes dryness (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne fast (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Bleaches fabrics (often mentioned)
- Liked: Prevents breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces redness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes stinging (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Effective on body (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Initial purging (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Benzac AC 5 a great fit for acne-prone skin?

Galderma Benzac AC 5 is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because benzoyl peroxide effectively reduces acne lesions and blemishes by targeting bacteria, while glycerin provides essential hydration. This formulation balances the antimicrobial action of benzoyl peroxide with hydrating ingredients to manage acne while keeping your skin comfortable.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Benzoyl peroxide and glycerin make this cream a great fit for your acne-prone skin because benzoyl peroxide targets bacteria to reduce blemishes, while glycerin provides essential hydration to keep the skin balanced. Topical benzoyl peroxide may improve acne effectively, and glycerin helps maintain moisture.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Benzoyl Peroxide do for acne-prone skin?

Benzoyl Peroxide helps clear acne by targeting breakouts and reducing pimples, while also lowering the number of acne-causing bacteria. It may sometimes cause dryness or irritation, so pairing it with a gentle cleanser or moisturizer helps keep skin comfortable.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23839205/)

### What does Glycerin do for acne-prone skin?

Glycerin helps keep acne-prone skin hydrated and calm without clogging pores or feeling heavy. It supports the skin barrier so it stays soft and smooth while handling everyday treatments.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31840548/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Putting it at night keeps things simple and helps protect your skin around sun exposure.

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying them on alternating nights or separating them into different steps of your routine to lower the likelihood of skin discomfort. Using benzoyl peroxide helps reduce acne-causing bacteria while glycerin maintains hydration, making it easier to manage breakouts safely.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38102855/), [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This treatment is used in the evening as part of your routine. Benzoyl peroxide helps clear acne blemishes, while glycerin maintains essential skin hydration.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

Galderma Benzac AC 5 is a great fit for acne-prone skin because benzoyl peroxide effectively targets bacteria to reduce blemishes while glycerin helps keep your skin hydrated. This treatment is unlikely to clog pores, but you may experience initial purging when you first start using it.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €18.25 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €35.99 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €139.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.98 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €10.25 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €17.90 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in France has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Benzoyl Peroxide 50 Mg G, Docusate Sodium, Disodium Edetate, Poloxamer 182, Carbomer 940, Propylene Glycol, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycerin, Silicon Dioxide, Sodium Hydroxide, Water
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/acne-prone-skin
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