Benzoyl peroxide is a form of benzoic acid used in the treatment of acne. Benzoyl peroxide is found in varying levels in many topical acne treatments, such as creams, lotions, gels and face washes. The medication works to treat acne in several ways, including killing the bacteria that cause acne--known as Propionibacterium acnes.
Function
Benzoyl peroxide is an antiseptic topical treatment that can remove bacteria from the skin that cause acne. When applied to the skin, benzoyl peroxide immediately breaks down into two elements: the first is oxygen, which oxygenates the pores--causing the P. acnes bacteria that causes acne to leave the skin. The other released element is benzoic acid. This acid works to clear oil and dead skin from the hair follicles inside the skin that cause acne.
Time Frame
When you begin applying benzoyl peroxide, you may notice a reduction in acne symptoms, such as skin redness or pimple size, within a matter of days. However, it may take as much as four to six weeks to experience significant relief of acne symptoms following benzoyl peroxide application. For this reason, benzoyl peroxide application requires a significant time commitment for you to experience results.
Types
Benzoyl peroxide can be found in a number of acne treatments and in varying concentrations. Benzoyl peroxide may be included in acne treatments in levels of 1 to 10 percent in over-the-counter products. In face washes, benzoyl peroxide levels are typically lower because the medication is intended for everyday usage. When used as a gel or lotion spot treatment, benzoyl peroxide may be at a higher concentration, varying from 8 to 10 percent. Typically, any level at 2.5 percent or higher will be effective for daily use.
Warnings
While benzoyl peroxide is effective in the treatment of acne, it also can cause skin dryness related to its skin-sloughing properties. For this reason, moisturize the skin following benzoyl peroxide treatment. Benzoyl peroxide has bleaching properties, so avoid the hairline and eyebrows when applying benzoyl peroxide and take care not to get it on your clothes.
Considerations
Because benzoyl peroxide can be drying to the skin, so start with a once-daily application with only a small amount of benzoyl peroxide product. If you don't experience excessive irritation or redness, start using the product twice daily and in increasing amounts. However, if painful irritation or swelling occurs, stop use immediately.
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