This invention relates to methods of increasing the efficacy of peroxides such as benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of skin conditions such as acne. In a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to methods of increasing radicals formed by peroxides on/in the skin, more specifically near/in the comedone, for topical use in dermatology. In a specific embodiment, the invention relates to the use of transitional metals such as Cu(1) and ferrous ions to increase the efficacy of peroxides such as benzoyl peroxide. In another embodiment, the invention relates to a method by which a peroxide such as benzoyl peroxide and its activator are added to the skin surface at the same time. In another embodiment, the invention relates to the use of a more soluble form of peroxide such as benzoyl peroxide to increase its efficacy. In another embodiment, the invention relates to the addition of a side chain to a peroxide such as benzoyl peroxide so that it is activated by light. In a further embodiment, the invention relates to the addition of a tertiary amine to a peroxide such as benzoyl peroxide at the time of skin application, to improve the efficacy of the peroxide. In another embodiment, the invention relates to the addition of dapsone or other material to a peroxide such as benzoyl peroxide to improve its efficacy.