AcneFree Review: Is It A Scam?

(Last Updated on November 5, 2022)

Acne stinks.

Everyone experiences it, and we can all agree: we don’t like it.

The good news is that AcneFree created a 3-step system for treating these pesky blemishes.

Their 24 Hour Acne Clearing System utilizes advanced micro-benzoyl peroxide to combat breakouts.

At least that’s the claim.

Does AcneFree truly clear away acne?

We’ve done the research and the results are in.

What Is AcneFree 24 Hour Acne Clearing System?

AcneFree was recently purchased by L’Oreal (the world’s largest beauty company).

AcneFree products are known across the country for mid-range prices on non-prescription cleansers and acne treatments.

Advance micro-benzoyl peroxide (formulated to work faster and deeper in the skin) is exclusive to the AcneFree brand.

The 24 Hour Acne Clearing System is a three step system, including cleanser, toner and lotion.

• These three steps work together to first eliminate excess oil, dirt and acne bacteria.
• Then rejuvenate pores to balance natural oils and uneven skin tone for soft, revitalized skin.
• And lastly, absorb medication deep into pores to prevent breakouts before they begin.

AcneFree Product List

The 24 Hour Acne Clearing System contains three products:

Oil-Free Purifying Cleanser

It gently cleanses the skin for deep repair.

Even after it’s washed it off, the purifying cleanser continues to combat breakouts within pores.

Renewing Toner

It refines pores with the help of witch hazel, chamomile, aloe vera and vitamins — like Panthenol (Vitamin B5) — to soothe and regenerate skin cells.

Repair Lotion

It prolongs the fight against acne-causing bacteria by absorbing easily and deeply into pores.

The medicated lotion works continually throughout the day — 24/7.

AcneFree Ingredients

The active ingredient in the three-step system is micro-sized benzoyl peroxide.

The cleanser and lotion contain this acne medication to diminish sebum (oil) in the skin.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is delivered in different percentages of concentration.

In the cleanser, we see benzoyl peroxide 2.5%, while the repair lotion contains benzoyl peroxide 3.7%.

Research shows the power of benzoyl peroxide is not restrained to it’s percentage concentration.

Studies show that 2.5% is as effective as 5% and 10%, without the adverse side-effects associated with higher concentrations.

Benzoyl peroxide is capable of damaging the skin barrier, which can heighten the chance of infections and inflammation.

It also reduces overall skin moisture by destroying fats in the skin.

These fats house important vitamins (like Vitamin E).

Benzoyl peroxide — even at 2.5 % — significantly reduces fatty acids in the skin surface over a two-week period of time.

It also significantly reduces Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria related to the skin disease known as acne.

So, if you decide to use benzoyl peroxide products to treat acne, make sure you nourish your skin with a separate soothing moisturizer chock-full of fatty acids and vitamins.

Other Ingredients

There are numerous inactive ingredients in the 24 Hour Cleansing System.

Some are thought to be safe, yet show potentially irritating properties.

Several are naturally-derived (yet synethically processed) and considered safe in small concentrations.

Other ingredients — like ginger root extract — are entirely plant-based.

This three-step system is a bit of a mixed bag, honestly.

How Does AcneFree 24 Hour Acne Clearing System Work

Micro-sized benzoyl peroxide is formulated with smaller particles than the typical benzoyl peroxide.

The particle size is thought to affect absorption and associated side-effects.

AcneFree is designed to deliver benzoyl peroxide, without the typical irritation and dryness.

The 24 Hour Acne Clearing System was clinically studied with randomized treatment groups.

The micronized benzoyl peroxide cleared pores and reduced sebum (which feeds acne bacteria).

AcneFree’s Clearing system proved to be as effective as Proactive 3-step system.

How To Use AcneFree 24 Hour Acne Clearing System

The three-step system starts with the cleanser component, then toner, and finally lotion.

All three products can be used on face, check and back.

Oil-Free Purifying Cleanser:

• Massage a dime-size dollop into damp skin (avoid eyes).
• Rinse.

Renewing Toner:

• Apply with a cotton pad (avoid eyes).
• Do NOT rinse.

Repair Lotion:

• Apply (avoid eyes).
• Do NOT rinse.

If the skin begins to peel, reduce use of the cleanser and lotion.

AcneFree 24 Hour Acne Clearing System Side Effects

The 24 Hour Clearing System may cause

• Irritation
• Dryness
• Redness

If these symptoms occur, AcneFree advises you to reduce usage to only one product.

Customer reviews often cited a “red rash” and “burnt skin”.

Swelling, inflamed, itchy and painful skin was also reported.

Use of a sunscreen and reduced sun exposure is recommended.

However, do not apply any topical products immediately after AcneFree.

If you apply a moisturizer, for example, wait half an hour after using AcneFree.

Is AcneFree A Scam?

The science behind benzoyl peroxide is well-documented.

Micronized benzoyl peroxide is a more recent technology that yields significant advantages in bioavailability and clinical application.

Skin moisture and pore penetration are both improved.

However, these improvements are not a cure-all.

The formula may still result in excessive dryness and irritation of the skin.

Is it worth a try? Perhaps.

Less harsh products, however, may suit one better — without risking painful side effects and a possibly worsened skin condition.

AcneFree System Reviews & Complaints

This product boasts impressive ratings overall.

Out of 1340 customers reviews, AcneFree 24 Hour Clearing System receives 4 out of 5.

A whooping 58% of reviewers gave this product 5 stars.

It also received a lower return rate than other similar products on Amazon.

Cheryl shares:

This is a great product. I used it as directed and within two days my skin was clear. I do agree with other reviewers—it would be nice to be able to purchase items separately as they do not all “end” at the same time. The moisturizing gets used up first even though it only takes a tiny bit to do its job.

Isabel Perez explains:

I’m not sure how this got so many bad reviews, I know everyone’s skin is different. But this cleared my face up so perfectly!!! Went from pizza face to clear skin within 2 weeks! My aunt had the same acne problem as me, so I got her this as a gift. And now her skin is flawless!! THANK YOU SO MUCH ACNEFREE YOURE A HERO!

Diana dishes:

My pimples get a lot smaller and go away quicker when I use Acnefree 24h kit. It does not prevent them but at least I have something to use to get rid of them when they appear 🙂 I use 1 and 2. I put lotion on the spot only and it gets smaller overnight. However, it does not go away overnight. u ll have to repeat the process for a few days to get rid of it.

Stacy Sprow states:

If I could give negative stars, I would. After using this product a total of three times, it left a horrible rash that covered my neck and face. It caused burning, itching, and the first layer of skin to come off.

I would NEVER recommend this product to anyone!! It says it’s compared to Proactive! Def not the case!!! I’ve used proactive several times and never had this happen. I decided to give this a try considering the price was so good.

Trust me, spend the extra money and get the good stuff. I’m on my third day of soaking my face with lotion. So if you want your face to look like Freddy Krueger then use this product. If not, stay far away!

AcneFree System Packages, Pricing & Where to Buy

We recommend to buy this product at the official website: www.acnefree.com.

The company website will redirect you to Amazon to complete your purchase.

Check packages and prices below.

• AcneFree 3 Step 24 Hour Acne Treatment Kit: $15.36

Shipping Info

AcneFree 24 Hour Clearing System can only be shipped to the 49 contiguous states.

Those with Amazon Prime are eligible for FREE shipping (4 days).

Federal regulations may prevent this item from 1-2 day shipping due to ground ship methods.

Subscription Option

You can subscribe for this item on Amazon.

Initial savings are 5%, but increase to 15% with the purchase of 5+ products in one month.

First time subscribers are also eligible for a 20% off coupon on their first order.

AcneFree Moneyback Guarantee & Refund Policy

According to Amazon, this product is typically eligible for a 30-day return.

AcneFree Pros & Cons

Pros

• Cost-effective.
• Clinical studies support benzoyl peroxide as acne treatment.
• Majority of customers reviews are positive.

Cons

• Adverse side-effects are common.
• Contains a vast amount of synthetic compounds.
• Formula may not offset downsides of benzoyl peroxide.

AcneFree System Review: Final Verdict

AcneFree may offer those with mild-to-moderate acne a viable solution with this product.

If it’s too strong, the 24 Hour Clearing System can be broken down to it’s component products.

You can always try using the cleanser (without the toner and lotion).

Balancing out the harsh effects of benzoyl peroxide is key.

If you’re willing to be adventurous, you may find a harmonious mixture of products to complement the AcneFree Clearing System.

You may end up using one, two or all three of their Clearing System treatment products (or none).

Everyone is different. It simply depends on you and your specific skin condition.

So, what do you think about our AcneFree 24 Hour Acne Clearing System review? Would you buy it or not? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!