Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the common
ingredients used to treat
acne. You can find this active ingredient in the form of a cream, gel,
lotion, facemask, or cleansing bar. Benzoyl Peroxide is very effective in
treating mild cases of acne. This acne treatment drug is available in
non-prescription form for concentrations of 2.5%, 5% and 10%. If you are looking
for concentrations higher than 10%, you need a doctor's prescription. Several
studies have shown that 2.5% benzoyl peroxide is equally effective to combat
pimples and is less irritating. Therefore, if you want to try Benzoyl Peroxide
to treat your
acne,
you should begin with a low concentration (example 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide).
How Benzoyl Peroxide works
Before we go into details on how benzoyl peroxide can prevent acne, it is useful
to understand how acne is formed. Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes) is a
bacteria that causes the skin disorder acne. P.acnes is a major inhabitant of
human skin and is the causative agent of acne. This skin-dwelling organism will
multiply rapidly within clogged sebaceous follicles if left untreated.
Fortunately, these bacteria cannot live in the presence of oxygen. Benzoyl
Peroxide is an oxygen-releasing chemical in the organic peroxide family. Upon
applying on the affected area, this chemical is absorbed into the pores and
releases the oxygen to destroy P.acnes.
Side Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide
It is important to note that there are some side effects when using this
anti-acne medication:
a. Dryness
If you are using 5% or 10% of benzoyl peroxide, you may want to try a lower
concentration, say 2.5% of benzoyl peroxide.
b. Irritation
For irritation, you can reduce the usage frequency. If you encounter severe
irritation even the usage frequency is low, you should discontinue using the
product.
c. Allergy
If you are allergic to Benzoyl Peroxide, you should discontinue using it and
consult your dermatologist for other
acne treatments.
d. Bleach
Benzoyl Peroxide is a powerful bleaching agent. You should prevent your hair
from contacting this bleaching agent as this medicine can cause permanent color
dampening.
Before using Benzoyl Peroxide for your acne treatment, please take note that
this medicine generates free radicals in the skin. The result is redness of the
skin due to oxidative stress. The effect is similar to unprotected sun exposure.
If you are using a benzoyl peroxide product to treat your acne, you should avoid
unnecessary sun exposure and use a sunscreen during the day.
Please be reminded that the above
information is for informational purposes only and it is not intended to replace
any health care services you need. The information provided is strictly not
meant to diagnose medical conditions, offer medical advice, or endorse specific
products or services. Do not rely upon the information provided alone for
medical diagnosis or treatment. Kindly consult your doctor about any personal
health concerns.
About The Author
Julian Chee is the founder of
Skincare Daily.
This accredited skin care website provides information on
acne,
acne treatments
and
acne products.
For more acne information, please visit
www.skincaredaily.com
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