Should I use salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for spot treatment?

Reviewers generally recommend salicylic acid for blackheads, whiteheads, and clogged pores because it dissolves oil inside the pore, and benzoyl peroxide for inflamed, red, pus-filled pimples because it kills C. acnes bacteria. People with sensitive or dry skin tend to tolerate salicylic acid better; benzoyl peroxide is more drying and can bleach pillowcases and towels.