 Benzoyl Peroxid is one of the most commonly used ingredients, which can be very effective in the treatment of mild acne. Benzoyl peroxide reduces the number of Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis types of bacteria. It’s safe for children as well as adults, and may be combined with other topical or oral treatments.
How Does it Work?
Benzoyl peroxide destroys Propionibacterium acne, the bacteria that cause the acne appearance. It acts as an oxidizing and antiseptic agent, reducing the number of comedones, or blocked pores. In 2–3 weeks, you will see amelioration.
Remember! Benzoyl peroxide kills Propionibacterium acnes; but it does not increase your body’s natural opposition to bacteria. So even when your breakouts begin to vanish you have to keep cure your problem-prone areas. This course of acne treatment kills bacteria, but it does not affect sebum production or the rate at which you shed your dead skin cells. Unfortunately, your acne will appear again if you stop using it.
How Long Can This be Used for?
This may be used for as long as it is effective, which may be months or even years.
Where to Get it?
It is available in a range of creams, lotions and gels and is found in several “over the counter” cleansing lotions with concentrations of 2.5%, 5% and 10%. It is also available in presciption medications such as BenzaClin, Benzamycin, and Duac. As with any product, read the label carefully and follow the instructions for proper use.
Common Side Effects
Dryness: The most popular side effect, dryness is usually mild. If the skin is seemingly scaly, apply a light oil-free moisturizer.
Remember! : If you feel skin irritation, dryness, or inflammation and you are using a 5% or 10% solution of benzoyl peroxide, you may want to give your skin some time to heal — then try a lower concentration.
Irritation: If you feel mild irritation, try to use Benzoyl Peroxide not so frequent. If irritation is severe or persists even with infrequent application, discontinue use.
Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis can be due to irritation or allergy. Your skin may be red, dry and itchy. Discontinue use immediately and treat with a mild topical steroid, such as hydrocortisone cream, which is available almost in every drugstore.
Allergy: near 1–2% of the people all over the world have a mild allergic reaction to benzoyl peroxide. This is usually characterized by redness and itching.
Bleaching of clothing: Benzoyl peroxide may bleach clothing and linens. Make sure your skin is dry before touching any cloth.
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