# Galderma Benzac AC 5 for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your oily shine and acne-prone skin, as benzoyl peroxide effectively reduces acne-causing bacteria and glycerin provides humectant action for your combination skin.
- The antimicrobial and keratolytic action of benzoyl peroxide is highly suitable for your combination skin, addressing acne lesions.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

- Preoperative treatment with benzoyl peroxide significantly decreases the bacterial skin load of Cutibacterium acnes in patients undergoing elective shoulder surgery from skin incision until wound closure compared to preparation with soap. ([Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33545336/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Benzac AC 5 work for combination skin?

Galderma Benzac AC 5 works moderately well for combination skin by clearing acne-causing bacteria and keeping the skin soft with glycerin. To fit this skin type even better, a treatment needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or zinc PCA to balance oiliness and provide hydration without causing imbalance.
Sources: [Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33545336/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this treatment a good fit for combination skin?

Benzoyl peroxide and glycerin make this treatment a good fit by reducing acne-causing bacteria and keeping the skin hydrated. This product works for combination skin, though this skin type needs treatments with ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, and zinc PCA to regulate oiliness, enhance radiance, and provide balanced hydration without excess oil or dryness.
Sources: [Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33545336/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Benzoyl Peroxide do for combination skin?

Benzoyl peroxide helps clear acne and reduce blemishes for combination skin by targeting breakout-causing bacteria. Because it can sometimes cause dryness or tightness in sensitive areas, it is important to follow with a good moisturizer to keep the skin balanced.
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 combination skin?

Glycerin helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by pulling moisture in and keeping it there. It improves hydration and supports your skin barrier, which is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Where does this treatment go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine for combination skin. To work best for this skin type, a product of this type needs acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide along with ingredients that draw moisture into the skin.

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

You can use this treatment alongside retinol by applying the treatment in your PM routine and keeping them on separate nights or using a supportive moisturizing routine to help lower the likelihood of irritation. This combination helps target acne, but a product of this type for combination skin also needs soothing agents and extra moisture to keep the skin calm and comfortable.
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 treatment?

This treatment works well in the evening routine, as treatments with active ingredients are usually placed at night for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. You can start using it gradually to see how your skin responds, and combination skin of this type needs ingredients that tackle oily shine and breakouts while keeping moisture balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33545336/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can this treatment clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores, but initial purging is possible and it may cause dryness for combination skin. To prevent breakouts while managing combination skin, this type of product needs ingredients that clear acne-causing bacteria along with hydrating components that keep moisture balanced.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €37.99 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €380.10 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €129.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Dr. Althea Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dr-althea/amino-acid-gentle-bubble-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €13.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €103.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €18.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Italy 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/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/galderma/benzac-ac-5/for/combination-skin