Benzoyl Peroxide has long been marketed as Acne’s elusive ‘Magic Bullet’. Over 50% of acne products sold all over the world contain Benzoyl Peroxide in varying concentrations. It is available from as little as 2.5% to 10%. It is sold in the form of gels, creams, sticks, balms, etc. However, does it really work and can it really cure your acne?  

What is Benzoyl Peroxide?

Benzoyl Peroxide is essentially an antiseptic agent that occurs in a white powder form. It is commonly infused in acne treatments such as those mentioned above. This treatment is usually used to treat a mild form of acne as well as the occasional pimple outbreak. Severe forms of acne may still benefit from Benzoyl Peroxide – but adjunct forms of treatment may be necessary. Benzoyl Peroxide is also used to treat and prevent blackheads and whiteheads.

How does it Work?

As an antiseptic, Benzoyl Peroxide works by killing off bacteria and yeast present in the surface of the skin. Since bacteria and yeast are considered the main culprits of acne, benzoyl peroxide helps limit outbreaks by controlling the number of microorganisms on the skin surface. Benzoyl Peroxide is also said to aid in opening pores, relieving soreness and inflammation as well as in unclogging blackheads and whiteheads.

Benzoyl Peroxide is known to target the bacteria P. Acnes. It is an oxidizing agent, but it is not an overnight cure for acne. Some individuals may have to wait 2 – 3 weeks before they see any improvement in their skin’s condition.

Will Benzoyl Peroxide Cure Acne?

No. Benzoyl Peroxide does not cure acne it only controls outbreaks. Acne is often a genetic and hormonal condition. Benzoyl Peroxide only works topically .You may have to continuously use Benzoyl Peroxide in order to keep your outbreaks at bay. Once you stop using Benzoyl Peroxide, your acne will most likely return.

However, if you are using a formulation with 10% Benzoyl Peroxide, you can gradually shift to a product with lover Benzoyl Peroxide concentrations. Benzoyl Peroxide’s effectiveness is not affected by the concentration. Although, you should stick with industry standards like 2.5,%, 5% and 10%. These concentrations have been determined safe for use by various dermatologists and researches. Any more and it can cause severe side effects including chemical burns.

Common Side Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide

Most Benzoyl Peroxide users go through their treatments without seeing any negative side effects. However, a certain percentage of the population using Benzoyl peroxide will be overly sensitive to the effects of the drug.

Here are a few of the most common side effects attributed to Benzoyl Peroxide:

·         Dryness and Irritation – As an antiseptic agent, Benzoyl Peroxide works by drying out pimples. This could lead to dry and irritated skin. Some users will find that their skin is not only dry. The skin is often sore and inflamed too.

·         Crusting, Scaling and Peeling – These three are also common symptoms attributed to benzoyl peroxide. Sometimes the peeling can get so severe that users need to turn to doctors for help. Skin treated with benzoyl peroxide also sometimes presents with crusting and has a scaly appearance.

·         Discoloration – People who are sensitive to Benzoyl Peroxide often report discoloration. Some notice a bleaching of the skin, while others report a darkening of the treated area.

·         Burning Sensation – Benzoyl Peroxide also causes a burning sensation on the skin – especially when it is first applied. To avoid this it is recommended to deter from applying benzoyl peroxide products on sensitive parts of the skin like around the eyes, nose and lips.

If you experience any of the above side effects, stop using benzoyl peroxide immediately. Let your skin heal for 1 – 2 weeks and then start again with a product that has a lower concentration of Benzoyl Peroxide. If irritation persists even with the 2.5% concentration – consult your dermatologist, you may have to stop using Benzoyl Peroxide products all together.