Benzoyl Peroxide

General information:

Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most commonly used ingredients in topical acne treatments.  Benzoyl peroxide is a very popular topical acne treatment because it can be very effective at treating mild cases of non-inflammatory acne and can be used to treat children as well as adults.  

Benzoyl peroxide works by destroying p.acnes, the bacteria that contribute to the acne condition.  Benzoyl peroxide acts as an antiseptic (killing bacteria) and oxidizing agent.  By providing oxygen to the follicles it kills p.acne bacteria, which need an oxygen free environment to survive.

While benzoyl peroxide kills existing p.acne bacteria, it does not increase your body’s natural resistance to bacteria.  This means that even when your acne breakouts subside, you should keep treating acne-prone areas.  Benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria, but it does not affect oil (sebum) production or the rate at which the body sheds scale (dead skin cells).  Another challenge of using Benzoyl peroxide is that of you stop using it, the bacteria — and your acne — will return.  

Benzoyl peroxide is available in a wide range of gels, creams, lotions and cleansers in non-prescription concentrations of 2.5%, 5% and 10%.

Side Effects:

• The most common side effect of Benzoyl peroxide is dryness.  The dryness is usually mild, but if skin appears visibly scaly, apply a light oil-free moisturizer.
• Some patients may experience irritation when using benzoyl peroxide.  If you experience mild irritation, try decreasing the frequency of applixation. If irritation is severe or persists, discontinue use of benzoyl peroxide.
• Contact dermatitis (red, dry, itchy skin) occurs in some patients using benzoyl peroxide and can be due to irritation or allergy to the medication.  If dermatitis occurs, discontinue use immediately and cotact your acne physician.
• 1–2% of the patient population experiences a mild allergic reaction to benzoyl peroxide. This is usually characterized by itching and redness.