You may have heard or read about benzoyl-peroxide’s effectiveness in clearing skin if you suffer from acne or pimples. You may not fully understand how this ingredient treats breakouts or how you can incorporate it into your skincare routine to keep it clear. Our Skin Health Experts created this short guide to help you understand how benzoyl Peroxide can benefit your skin.
What is the effect of Benzoyl Peroxide on your skin
For many years, benzoyl peroxide has been used in skincare products. Its primary function is to kill bacteria. When applied to the skin, Benzoyl peroxide also acts as a drying agent. It causes your skin’s surface to peel and dry, which removes dead skin cells.
How Can Benzoyl Peroxide Help Acne
Acne is caused by an excess of oil or sebum clogging your pores. It traps bacteria and dead skin, Propionibacterium Acnes (p. Acnes), in your pores. Your skin will become inflamed when dead skin and bacteria, known as p. acnes, are trapped.
Is benzoyl Peroxide good for acne? Yes, benzoyl peroxide is effective for some types of acne. Its antibacterial properties can help reduce acne inflammation and prevent bacteria from getting trapped in your pores.
If you have:
Pimples- This type is characterized by pustules and red bumps on the back, neck, and face.
Whiteheads and Blackheads- These blemishes are either under the skin or appear on the surface.
Cystic Acne- This is the most severe form of acne. This causes painful lesions with pus that extend deep under the skin.
Cystic acne, on the other hand, can be more challenging to treat. It may require prescription medication. Benzoyl Peroxide works best when treating pimples or mildly inflamed acne.
Skin Care Products Containing B. Peroxide
The strength and quality of benzoyl products can vary greatly. Many of these products are available at your local pharmacy:
Face wash- These are often in foam or gel form. Most of them contain a small amount of benzoyl.
Gels- Gels that contain benzoyl peroxide are usually the most concentrated over-the-counter treatments. Do not use the gel on your whole face. You should only use the gel on breakouts.
Lotions- Usually, creams are used with face wash. These lotions have a lower concentration of benzoyl-peroxide than gels and are therefore used to wash the whole face.
Toners may cause your skin to dry out more than benzoyl peroxide alone.
Benzoyl Peroxide Side Effects
Be aware that benzoyl-peroxide acne treatments may cause mild side effects.
Dry, peeling skin
Skin irritation and redness
Itching
Clothing stains
Bleached hair can be used on eyebrows and hairline.
If you have sensitive or irritable skin, these ‘severity side effects may increase. Most skin irritations should subside after several days of using skincare products. Consult your dermatologist or Skin Health expert if you experience any irritation.
Benzoyl Peroxide and Other Acne Treatments
Many acne sufferers can benefit from Benzoyl Peroxide. It is not strong enough for severe acne. Other acne treatments can be combined with benzoyl to combat stubborn breakouts.
The American Academy of Dermatologists recommends the following additional treatments for acne.
Retinoids
Azelaic acid
Antibiotics (oral or topical)
Hormonal contraception
Salicylic acid
Isotretinoin
Laser or light therapy
Injections of corticosteroid
Dietary Changes
Prescription drugs
You can determine the best treatment for you by assessing your acne type and skin sensitivity. On our blog, you can find out if retinol helps acne and if Niacinamide is effective.
It’s important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for maintaining clear, healthy skin. To find the best formula for your skin, you must have patience, work with a dermatologist, and use quality skincare products.