How Do Benzoyl Peroxide Products Work?

Benzoyl peroxide is a preparation that causes the release of oxygen into the pores of the skin. The bacteria that causes acne, Propionibacteria acnes, cannot live in oxygen rich surroundings so this product stops it from growing and causing a problem. Propionibacteria acnes in pores blocked by dead skin cells, dust and dirt which often happens as a result of surging hormones which are prone to produce too much sebum during the teenage years. Benzoyl peroxide can prevent further outbreaks and flareups and should be used constantly, even if there is no redness or pimples, instead of as a spot treatment.

What Benzoyl Peroxide Preparations are Available?

Benzoyl peroxide is recommended if you have mild to moderate acne and can be purchased over the counter as a gel with a concentration of 2.5% as well as in products with up to 10% of the active ingredient. It is recommended to start with the 2.5 gel, which is usually extremely effective, and use a higher concentration only when your skin has become accustomed to it and you need a better treatment. You would be best to wash your face gently once or twice each day with a benzoyl peroxide wash then use the cream or gel. Make sure you apply all over the affected area to prevent flareups in in areas that are unaffected. If you have body acne, benzoyl peroxide body washes can be very effective.

Some Precautions To Take When Using Benzoyl Peroxide Treatments

Take care when using a benzoyl peroxide containing product as it will bleach your hair and clothes and will also bleach your pillow case! If you are using a body wash with benzoyl peroxide ensure to dry yourself thoroughly before getting dressed or you could ruin your clothes!

Some Side Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide Treatments

In your aim to become acne free, benzoyl peroxide products will usually be extremely effective but you should be familiar with common side effects that may be result from using this product. These can include burning or irritation of the skin, dryness, flaking and redness. While these are usually mild if you find you experience a more than a mild reaction stop using the product straight away and approach a dermatologist who may be able to prescribe an alternative treatment. You shouldn’t use a product with a high concentration of benzoyl peroxide to begin with in case your skin reacts badly, therefore apply a benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel or cream at first and use this until your skin gets used to it.

Does Benzoyl Peroxide Have Any Long-Term Side effects?

These types of acne preparations need to be used for over the course of months or years to be useful and to stop the acne from coming back. It is known that benzoyl peroxide releases free radicals on the skin and some people have thought that skin cancer might result in the following used. Clinical studies have not shown any evidence that this is the case. In spite of this if you are a pregnant woman or nursing, no studies have been undertaken to show if it is safe for your baby so we recommend you not to use these products at this time.

In Conclusion

Benzoyl Peroxide treatments are valuable and typically well tolerated by the majority of people as a cure for acne. These products are generally very safe to use for an extended period of time.

For more information please visit us at Benzoyl Peroxide Products for Acne