You may already have been using benzoyl peroxide without even knowing it. That’s because it is a common ingredient in many acne fighting products already. Products such as Clearasil and ProActiv both contain levels of benzoyl peroxide. So, benzoyl peroxide is already used in a good number of prescribed and over the counter products designed to help patients who suffer from acne try to overcome it.
The reasons benzoyl peroxide is a popular choice are that it was one of the first treatments discovered to successfully treat acne and it is also, generally, an affordable option. It also can be used for those who have mild to moderate cases of acne. If you fall into this category, and have not yet tried a benzoyl peroxide product, ask your dermatologist if one may be right for you.
How Benzoyl Peroxide Works
Some ingredients work by removing dead skin cells or working on the gland that secretes oil. Benzoyl peroxide actually introduces more oxygen into the pore. This, in turn, kills off bacteria that thrive in conditions where there is not enough oxygen. When dead skin or oils block the pore and prevent it from receiving enough oxygen, bacteria thrives, which causes breakouts. Benzoyl peroxide counterbalances this problem.
Benzoyl peroxide is reported to also help rid the follicle of debris, such as dead skin cells. By freeing the pores of blockages, you have less chance of breakouts and an easier time clearing up already present blemishes. With products containing benzoyl peroxide, you may need to continue use after breakouts have cleared up, though. Usually, this is because products that work to keep the pores unblocked require continued use so the skin can keep free of blockages that cause acne.
Who Can Use Benzoyl Peroxide Products?
First, if you suffer from more severe forms of acne, such as nodules or cysts, you may not be a good candidate for this type of product. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure of whether or not this would work for you. Women who are nursing, pregnant or may become pregnant should also consult their physician before use.
If you have a tendency to be overly sensitive and suffer from dry skin, you may notice more problems from using this. Otherwise, most people struggling with acne can use this and, hopefully, see results. It is not as harsh as some ingredients and tends to have fewer side effects because of this.
The Possibility of Side Effects
As mentioned before, dry skin can be a common side effect among users. You may also experience redness, flaking, burning or other discomfort. Often, this could be remedied with use of an oil-free moisturizer. If you suffer anything more severe or these effects linger or worsen, though, you should discontinue using benzoyl peroxide products. Consulting with your doctor can help determine if you should continue by using smaller amounts or stop completely.
Direct contact with hair or clothing may result in bleaching. Some users, in fact, also experience the same problem with their own skin, so blotchiness or uneven skin could occur. There have even been reports of permanent brown spots surfacing while using or following use of benzoyl peroxide products. Some side effects may depend on the types of products you use.
Products with Benzoyl Peroxide
From creams to gels, there are all kinds of products available that contain benzoyl peroxide to help with skin problems.
- One popular example is the Acne.org 8 oz Treatment.
- Or you may prefer a cleanser, such as the Topix Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Wash. This is a good way to introduce benzoyl peroxide into your skin care routine once or twice a day.
- For those looking for topical solutions, try the Glytone Acne Gel. This is a medical grade product that helps rejuvenate skin. It can be used up to three times a day.
It may take some trial and error by using different products, but you may find benzoyl peroxide works great for treating your acne.