What Is Benzoyl Peroxide?
One of the most common and effective ingredients for treating acne is benzoyl peroxide. This powerhouse ingredient clears acne breakouts, prevents new blemishes, and promotes the shedding of dead skin cells. In this article, we’ll discuss what benzoyl peroxide is and what benefits it has for the skin.
Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication that can be found over-the-counter or in higher percentages by prescription. It is bactericidal, which makes it a great ingredient for treating acne. Benzoyl peroxide can be found in many forms like gels, cleansers, and spot treatments and comes in different concentrations for mild to moderate breakouts.
Benzoyl Peroxide For Acne Treatment
Benzoyl peroxide works to treat and prevent acne by killing bacteria underneath the skin, while also helping pores shed dead skin cells and excess sebum. It works particularly well for inflammatory acne, which is characterized by red bumps that contain pus like pustules, papules, cysts, and nodules.
As for a more serious form of acne like cystic acne, it’s more difficult to treat. Cystic acne is characterized by hard bumps below the surface of the skin. If you have this type of acne, we recommend consulting your esthetician or dermatologist.
Blackheads and whiteheads are non-inflammatory acne caused by clogged pores. Although benzoyl peroxide can treat clogged pores, it may not be the best option for blackheads and whiteheads.
How To Use Benzoyl Peroxide For Acne
Benzoyl peroxide comes in many different skincare formulations and it’s important to pick the right one for your skin concern. As for the concentration, this depends on your skin. Some people may be able to tolerate products with a high percentage of benzoyl peroxide, while others are too sensitive. If you are treating acne on the face, start with a lower percentage. If you’re treating acne on the body, you can generally use a higher percentage.
Benzoyl peroxide can be found in the following acne treatment products:
- Gels: Tend to come in the form of spot treatments with higher concentrations. These are to be applied only to the affected area.
- Face washes and foams: These are to be used once or twice daily to prevent acne and treat existing blemishes.
- Acne body washes and soaps: These are ideal if you have frequent breakouts on the chest, back, and other areas of the body.
- Acne creams and lotions: These are typically applied once or twice daily on the entire face as both a preventative and treatment measure.
Side Effects Of Benzoyl Peroxide
While benzoyl peroxide is safe for most people, it can cause negative side effects. This especially may be the case when using the product for the first time. It is usually recommended to begin using the product once daily, and then build up the frequency of application as your skin tolerates it.
Because benzoyl peroxide works by peeling away dead skin cells and excessive oil, it can lead to dryness, redness, or excessive peeling. You may even notice itching and irritation at the site of application as well.
Takeaway
Benzoyl peroxide can be a very effective treatment for acne but it does have negative effects if used improperly. We recommend speaking to your esthetician or dermatologist before incorporating benzoyl peroxide into your daily skincare routine.
