Benzoyl Peroxide

For the treatment of acne, Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the most frequently used treatment medications. It is found in a number of various over-the-counter medications, cleansers, topical gels and treatment lotions.  Products such as Clearasil and other facial cleansers will usually contain Benzoyl Peroxide.

How Benzoyl Peroxide Works-

Benzoyl peroxide works by bringing additional oxygen to pores, which creates a more hostile environment for bacteria to grow in. Further, Benzoyl Peroxide helps rid skin of excess skin cells which keeps pores less cluttered and leads to less breakout in the future. Because this product is found in an assortment of products, it is usually the first tried treatment for those suffering from mild acne. Benzoyl Peroxide should generally not be used as a spot treatment, but rather should be applied to the entire face or affected area.

Cautions with Benzoyl Peroxide-

While Benzoyl Peroxide is commonly used to clear up acne breakouts, after the acne is initially treated by the use of Benzoyl Peroxide, the users must continue medication regardless of the current condition of the skin. If treatment is interrupted, the amount of bacteria in the conditioned skin tends to sky rocket, leaving the skin open to breakouts and acne problem. This being said, Benzoyl Peroxide may prove to be a long term treatment to a seemingly short-term problem.

Also, some common side effects of Benzoyl Peroxide include dry, itchy skin, redness, flaking and burning of the skin. Skin may also show sign of swelling due to the chemicals introduces to the pores. Continual usage of this product will leave skin dried up and may contribute to discoloration of the face.

Finally, because of the chemicals used in this product, Benzoyl Peroxide will bleach or cause permanent color dampening in any hair, towels, or clothing that it comes in contact with. Extreme cautions should be taken when using this product around linens.