If you're reading this review, its probably because you're experiencing acne, a teenager's (and often adult's) nightmare. I'm 17 years old and am lucky enough to have managed to clear up most of the acne which made me so uncomfortable - I have mostly this product to thank.
There is no miracle cure for acne, but having gone through as many products as I could to deal with my problem, this was the only one I could recommend. As a younger teenager, I foolishly paid a visit to my GP to try and deal with my acne - this wasn't remotely helpful. My doctor quickly prespcribed me some completely unhelpful medication which I dumped after a year with no results. From Clearasil to lemon juice, I tried everything until finally I heard of benzoyl peroxide, a chemical which seemed to be helping many acne sufferers.
Quinoderm
contains benzoyl peroxide in varying concentration. It was recommended that I started with the lower 5% concentration and worked my way up to 10% but I was eager to see results and bought the 10% version. You're probably expecting me to say that I should have gone for the 5% version, but honestly (and admittedly unlike many users) I had very few problems. Speaking from personal experience, there was some minor irritation at first which my skin soon got used to. I would strongly recommend doing a test on a patch of your skin before your first application however, as I know many people's skin have difficulty tolerating the chemical. You'll quickly learn how much you are expected to apply - apart from the instrucions in the packet, you'll definately feel it. Dehydration in your skin is almost guaranteed, so get a moisturiser! During my first applications the sensation was quite severe and I could barely move my face - moistuising is extremely important, if I didn't do it my skin would have started peeling.
As unappealing as this process sounds, I found it all fairly straightforward and was quick to settle into a routine - doing it in the morning and then before going to bed. I saw results after a week and for a few days my skin was looking far better, this was only short term however and soon my face was full of acne...discouraging as this was, I persisted and the long term gains were really showing after 2 months. Now, after a year, my skin is clear - not perfect, but clear nonetheless. Sticking to my routine no longer has a high priority and I often skip days without worrying. I still dont have the confidence to leave the medication altogether though - I'm almost sure my acne would reappear, the odd spot that appears every now and then reminds me so.
I thoroughly recommend this product, but before you make a rush to the shop consider that despite this being an over-the-counter product, it seems no safer than many of the prescription medications available. Benzoyl Peroxide is subject to some controvesy with claims that it can lead to cancer and premature ageing - and though I don't take these potential hazards too seriously (as there is no actual proof), I'll stop taking this as soon as I feel comfortable that my acne will not resurface. Also, if you're going to be taking this medication don't get it on your clothes (or hair) as it will cause colour changes - my pillow is destroyed, but its a price I'm willing to pay. There is an odour also (which I can only describe as a strong scent of play-doh), but in all fairness it goes unnoticed after constant use. The scent doesn't seem to linger for too long either - I've never gotten comments about it from anyone else. I didn't find the downsides too problematic and as long as you follow the instructions you should be alright. Just remember its as strong as many subscription medications - get it in your eyes and it can blind you, in your stomach it can kill you and in your hair it can make you look very unstylish.
Ultimately, for me, Quinoderm is the cheapest, most effective treatment out there for acne. The value is truly unbeatable, I have always bought the 50 gram tube for under £5, which is incredible seeing as it lasts around two months. 25 gram tubes are also available - just remember that there are two versions, one containing 5% BP and the other 10%BP (the highest over-the-counter BP concentration available). I'm aware that there are other benzoyl peroxide treatments out there - the only one I tried was PanOxyl. Quinoderm beat that hands down as it is cheaper, less irritating, less drying and has a very tolerable scent.
If you're dying for a solution to your acne troubles, give this a shot - its the only thing that worked for me.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
I keep hearing good things about this cream on reviews I have read – I think I may need to pick up some of this as anything that helps my problem skin is worth a try x
Ci-borg 15.02.2006 10:47
Thanks a million! I edited it with some additional information, really hope this helps people - it really is the best thing out there
Nar 15.02.2006 02:02
Only aspect missing from this nicely written and informative review is a general price and if the product has an off putting scent?
Use Quinoderm facewash morning and night in place of your normal soap to help remove any ... more
excess facial oil, grease or dirt leaving the skin feeling clean and healthy. Its anti-bacterial action also helps kill the bacteria that can lead to spots.The Qui...
Postage & Packaging: £2.50 Availability: Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days...
Advantages: It really works and you will notice much clearer, and spot-free skin. Disadvantages: It dries out the skin and it will bleach anything that comes into contact with your face.
GemmaC25 02.08.2009 ·
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
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