Benzoyl Peroxide

What Is Benzoyl Peroxide

Topical Benzoyl Peroxide is used to treat mild and moderate acne. It may be used by itself or in combination with other acne treatments. Benzoyl Peroxide works by reducing the amount of bacteria that causes acne and drying out the skin.

Many acne treatments contain Benzoyl Peroxide as an active ingredient. Some require a prescription from a dermatologist; however, most can be purchased over the counter.

I highly recommend talking to a dermatologist or esthetician before using any product containing Benzoyl Peroxide before use, even if it can be purchased without a prescription. They will be able to give you more specific instruction on how much and how often you should use the medicine. Additionally, some skin types are more sensitive and become very dry and flaky even with small doses. If this is the case with your skin you may be better suited to a different acne treatment like Salycilic Acid.

How To Use Topical Benzoyl Peroxide

Some products require shaking before use. Check your product package to see if your form of this medication needs to be shaken.

Benzoyl Peroxide may bleach fabrics and facial hair. If you are concerned about your clothes take off your shirt before applying a treatment to your face. Avoiding all facial hair is difficult, but don’t stress—if you don’t go out of your way to saturate your eyebrows the bleaching effect will be hardly noticeable.

Rinse your face with cool water then apply the Benzoyl Peroxide to the areas of your skin affected by acne. Be careful not to get any of the solution into your eyes, nose, mouth or any open wounds, as this might cause irritation. If it does happen be sure to rinse with cold water immediately.

Rub the cleanser into the skin affected by acne for twenty to thirty seconds. The cleanser will lather like soap. Once you are satisfied rinse off the Benzoyl Peroxide cleanser thoroughly and pat dry. Be sure to use a fresh clean towel to dry your face since your pores will probably be open and any dirt might get caught in your pores and could cause more breakouts.

If you are using a liquid body wash or bar, use it instead of soap as you shower once or twice a day. Make sure to let the soap stay on your body for twenty to thirty seconds before rinsing off to ensure maximum effectiveness.

With medicated sponges or pads, first wash the affected skin with a mild cleanser, then pat dry. Use the sponge or pad gently medicate the skin.

Over the counter treatments will have a recommended dosage, which you can try, but for best results you will want a treatment that is tailored to your skin. If you skin becomes dry you can try using less, or as I recommend get an experts opinion.

Acne is caused by bacteria, Benzoyl Peroxide can help eliminate the bacteria but if you don’t use the medication regularly and consistently then the bacteria will have time to grow and you will feel like you are not getting anywhere. To help you remember, use it at the same time or times each day.

It is common for people to complain that their acne is getting worse after starting treatment. Generally speaking, this is just the acne being pushed to the surface of the skin to be released and is a good sign as frustrating as it may seem now. Typically people will start to see visual improvement after three weeks. If you are still concerned at that point you should consult your dermatologist or esthetician

Side Effects Of Benzoyl Peroxide

Itching, Irritation, Peeling, and reddening of the skin are common side effects of the treatment. They are typical of starting the treatment and you should not be worried unless they persist or worsen after the first two weeks. If they do worsen consult your dermatologist or esthetician to determine your next move.

Side effects beyond the minor but common ones above are unlikely with Benzoyl Peroxide. However, if you show symptoms of an allergic reaction like rash, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breather, then you should seek immediate medical attention.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Benzoyl Peroxide Side Effects

Some forms of Benzoyl Peroxide contain perfumes. Tell your dermatologist if you are allergic to perfumes.

Avoid prolonged sun exposure as Benzoyl Peroxide may make you more sensitive to the sun. Try to use an oil-free sunscreen whenever you are outdoors.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions Between Benzoyl Peroxide And Other Drugs

Make sure your doctor is aware of any other medication you are taking at the same time as Benzoyl Peroxide including nonprescription and herbal products, especially those that are topical. To avoid any unfortunate complications do no to start, or stop any medications without first consulting your physician.