Does Benzoyl Peroxide Work for Acne?

Wong Darren

June 03, 2009

One of the most widely-used ingredients in many acne treatment formulations is benzoyl peroxide. Women who are more prone to hormone-associated acne can use it to treat existing growths and prevent future breakouts. Acne vulgaris sufferers should use it even when their faces are clear.

Depending on the product, benzoyl peroxide comes in different strengths, ranging usually from 2.5% to 10%. 2.5% strength benzoyl peroxide formulations cause less irritations than the higher 5 to 10 percent strength preparations and are proven to be suitable for just about most users. The good news is that they cost less.

As a rule, preparations containing benzoyl peroxide should be used sparingly at first until regular application is achieved. Carefully follow the treatment´s instructions or ask a health worker to explain it to you in case you can´t understand them.

Use the lowest possible dose at the start of the treatment and gradually step up the strength when required. By doing this, you lessen the risk of skin irritation and save yourself some cash.

How to Apply Benzoyl Peroxide for Acne?

a. Use the preparation every other night. Clean your face with mild soap and water and, afterwards, apply a very small portion of the preparation to affected areas.

b. Keep the preparation out of the eye, lip, and mouth areas as this may cause irritation.

c. Work up to a once or twice daily application if you are not getting the desired results and as long as you have built some tolerance for it.

While benzoyl peroxide formulations are proven to be effective treatments against acne, they do have their share of inconveniences and unwanted side effects.

Side Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide

a. Benzoyl peroxide can cause skin irritation and dryness. Avoid using abrasive scrubs, strong soaps or cleansers while undergoing treatment as these will only aggravate the irritation.

b. If the skin becomes excessively dry or scaly, apply non-oil based moisturizers on the affected area.

c. The initial application of benzoyl peroxide can bring about common side effects such as reddening, itching, peeling or mild burning sensation on your skin which go away in about two or three weeks. If these side effects persist, reduce the number of your daily applications or downgrade to a lower strength. If conditions worsen, the treatment should be discontinued.

d. Dermatitis and other allergic reactions caused by benzoyl peroxide can usually be treated by over-the-counter topical steroid creams like 1% hydrocortisone.

Should you decide to go on a benzoyl peroxide treatment, it is important to be aware of some facts to avoid unnecessary inconveniences later.

Some Facts about Benzoyl Peroxide

1. Benzoyl peroxide has a powerful bleaching agent (peroxide) which can leave stains on your clothing, towels and sheets. Allow the benzoyl peroxide preparation to completely dry before your treated skin comes into contact with clothing or sheets. Also consider wearing an old shirt when treating acne on your chest and back with benzoyl peroxide.

2. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach your hair so keep your hair, eyebrows and eyelashes from getting into contact with the application.

3. Make-up, facial lotions and other skin care cosmetics can be applied over benzoyl peroxide.

Acne treatment can take from a few weeks to several months before substantial results can be seen. To discourage future breakouts, make benzoyl peroxide a part of your daily maintenance even after the acne disappears.


Wong Darren is an online medical researcher on acne treatment and skin care. He has completed 20 Acne Medication Reviews and 30 Acne Treatment Reviews. For more information, visit his website Acne Treatment 2009. Darren has recently updated 2 new reviews: 1. Does Homeopathy Work for Acne? and 2. Do Chinese Herbs Work for Acne?

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