Benzoyl peroxide comes in cleansers, lotions, gels, and washes with concentrations ranging from 2.5 percent to 10 percent and can be very effective against no inflammatory acne such as blackheads and whiteheads; however, it doesn’t work as well for treating cystic acne that requires prescription medication, says our Dermatologist.
Consistency with acne products is key; any missed days will throw the treatment back.
1. Benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria
Benzoyl peroxide has long been recognized as an effective acne treatment solution, available in numerous skin care products like washes and gels. It works to minimize breakouts through multiple mechanisms including killing bacteria that leads to infections as well as unclogging pores.
Benzoyl peroxide stands out as an alternative antibacterial product that won’t promote resistant strains of bacteria; benzoyl peroxide acts as both antimicrobial and antibacterial, killing acne-causing bacteria while slowing their reproduction rate, while providing mild anti-inflammatory benefits to reduce redness and swelling.
Benzoyl peroxide combined with antibiotics is an effective combination that can enhance efficacy and patient satisfaction. When starting benzoyl peroxide pimple treatment alongside other acne medications such as antibiotics, however, starting slowly at lower concentrations before gradually increasing as your skin adjusts to it – using too much could result in redness, dry skin peeling and even burning; in such instances contact your doctor immediately as well as ensure you’re using an appropriate product tailored specifically to your skin type/concern.
2. It reduces inflammation
Benzoyl peroxide helps ease acne inflammation by blocking the release of pro-inflammatory triggers that cause reddening, itching and peeling on your skin. Furthermore, its use serves as solution that clears away dead skin cells while simultaneously decreasing oil production from pores.
As such, it makes the best acne treatment for both inflammatory acne (cysts and pus-filled pimples) as well as non-inflammatory acne like blackheads. Furthermore, it may even help lessen the appearance of scarring due to acne.
Benzoyl peroxide can be found in numerous over-the-counter acne products and some prescription acne treatments, including face washes, creams/lotions/exfoliates/scrubs and spot treatments. It comes in numerous forms for easy use such as soap bars and body washes for both body and face use, exfoliates/scrubs/spot treatments etc.
As it’s essential to follow the directions on the packaging and use only what is recommended, overusing benzoyl peroxide may result in side effects such as dryness or peeling of skin. If you’re having difficulty finding the appropriate benzoyl peroxide product for your skin type or experiencing adverse reactions from its ingredients, or have experienced adverse reactions due to them, talk to a dermatologist as they may prescribe a stronger formulation with lower concentration.
3. It reduces oil
Benzoyl peroxide works to remove excess oil that clogs pores. You’ll find it in many skincare products such as face washes, gels and creams; its concentration should suit both your skin type and tolerance – for instance very sensitive skin may benefit more from lower concentrations than 2.5%-10% usually seen in acne treatment products, says our best dermatologist.
Blackheads and whiteheads caused by clogged pores are among the most frequent types of acne; comedian acne (pimples without pustules) may also occur; BPO is particularly useful in managing such cases; however, BPO may also help those who experience more inflammatory forms like papules and pustules.
Be careful when using benzoyl peroxide; make sure you carefully follow product instructions and only apply it directly on the area that needs healing. Since benzoyl peroxide bleaches towels, sheets, clothing etc., keep it away from these items too as initial use could cause redness, irritation and peeling of skin.
4. It reduces dead skin cells
Benzoyl peroxide acts as an exfoliate, encouraging the removal of dead skin cells that clog up pores and unblocking them in turn, helping unclog them further and decrease acne-causing bacteria.
Benzoyl peroxide may be the perfect treatment option if you have oily or combination skin; this treatment can effectively address both inflammatory and no inflammatory acne (blackheads and whiteheads). However, for dry or sensitive skin types, salicylic acid might be preferable.
Conclusion
Benzoyl peroxide and other treatments can help clear up acne. But please remember it can take eight-10 weeks, or sometimes longer, for results to appear. If the condition does not improve after several weeks, consult a dermatologist as you might require stronger medications prescribed only by him/her.
