Benzoyl peroxide is an affordable medication that works well to clear up acne. It's available over-the-counter and comes in many different forms, but it's not a good option for people with sensitive skin.
Acne
Benzoyl peroxide is an antiseptic. It prevents acne-causing bacteria from growing and multiplying on your face.
Source: DailyMed
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Lower-cost and available over-the-counter
Comes in many different forms (e.g., gel, cream, and lotion) and strengths
Easy to apply
Can be used by people with either dry or oily skin
Makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight
Can bleach your hair, clothing, and bedding
Might not work well for people with severe acne
Can cause uncomfortable side effects, like skin burning and itching
Not a good option for people with sensitive skin
Wash your hands after using benzoyl peroxide to avoid accidentally bleaching your hair or clothing.
Wear sunscreen or a hat when going into the sun, since this medication can cause you to become sunburned more easily.
It is normal to experience skin irritation during the first weeks of using benzoyl peroxide. If the irritation gets worse, talk to your provider, who might switch you to a lower strength of the medication or have you use it less often.
If you are using the gel, foam, or cream form of the medication, clean your skin well before applying it. Start with applying a thin layer 1 time daily and then gradually work your way up using it 2 to 3 times daily if needed or as instructed by your provider.
If you are using the liquid or lotion, shake the bottle well first, then wet the area that needs to be cleaned. Apply the medication to the affected areas of your face and massage it gently into your skin for 10 to 20 seconds, before rinsing off and patting your face dry.
If your skin feels dry after using benzoyl peroxide, talk to your provider to see if you can apply a moisturizer.
Benzoyl peroxide can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Benzoyl peroxide can bleach your hair and clothes. Be careful when you are applying the medication and wash your hands well after using it.
Benzoyl peroxide can cause skin redness, burning, peeling, or swelling, which is more likely to happen if you use other acne medications at the same time. Talk to your provider if the irritation gets worse over time or if it bothers you too much.
Don't use this medication if you have sensitive skin, unless your provider tells you it is okay to do so.
Lotion or liquid: Apply a thin layer to the affected areas 1 to 3 times daily or as directed by your provider, then wash and rinse well.
Gel, cream, or foam: Apply a thin layer to the affected areas 1 to 3 times daily or as directed by your provider.
Foaming cloth: Wet the cloth, clean the face with the cloth for 10 to 20 seconds, rinse well, and then pat dry. Do this routine 1 to 2 times daily.
Burns
Dandruff
Fungal infections
Insect bites
Other conditions that cause thickened skin (such as ichthyosis vulgaris and pityriasis rubra pilaris)
Treatment of inflammatory acne on the face in people ages 12 years and older
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