Benzoyl Peroxide Guide: 5 Uses of Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is a chemical compound that is used as an ingredient in many topical acne treatments, such as cleansers, gels, lotions, and spot treatments. Benzoyl peroxide has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and is considered one of the most effective acne treatments found in over-the-counter skincare products.

Benzoyl peroxide can work to prevent and treat acne by cleansing your pores of bacteria as well as clearing dead skin and sebum (oil) from the affected area. Benzoyl peroxide is often found in combination topical acne treatments with adapalene or clindamycin. People who have sensitive skin should consult with their doctor before using products containing benzoyl peroxide.

Products that use benzoyl peroxide are typically used to treat the following conditions.

1. 1. Treating inflammatory acne: Benzoyl peroxide is the preferred over-the-counter treatment for inflammatory acne, characterized by redness, pus-filled bumps, and blemishes.
2. 2. Treating bodily acne: Body washes and shower gels containing benzoyl peroxide are often used to treat acne on the back, neck, and other parts of the body.
3. 3. Treating blackheads and whiteheads: Benzoyl peroxide is occasionally used to help clear dead skin cells and oil that can cause breakouts of blackheads or whiteheads, but retinoids are considered a more effective treatment.
4. 4. Treating acne scars: Inflammatory acne can often leave red, dry scars. Benzoyl peroxide may assist in clearing dead skin cells from scarred areas, but a better treatment is to regularly use sunscreen to avoid sun damage to acne scars.
5. 5. Treating cystic acne: Cystic acne is a serious kind of acne characterized by large bumps under the skin with no discernible head. Benzoyl peroxide can be used to treat cystic acne in combination with other medications and with the consultation of a dermatologist.

Salicylic acid is another common ingredient that is found in over-the-counter (OTC) skincare products used to treat mild acne. Here is an overview of some of the differences between benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.

• They target different acne problems. Salicylic acid is typically used to treat blackheads and whiteheads, more so than benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is typically used to treat pustules found in inflammatory acne.
• Benzoyl peroxide is stronger. Salicylic acid is not as drying as benzoyl peroxide, making it easier for people with sensitive skin to use.
• They have different side effects. There are common side effects to both salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Possible side effects of salicylic acid can include dryness, hives, itching or peeling skin, and stinging or tingling. Benzoyl acid is a stronger ingredient and can cause severe skin irritation. People who suffer from eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis could suffer an allergic reaction and should get the medical advice of a dermatologist before using benzoyl peroxide products.

Individuals experience different levels of sensitivity to ingredients found in various skincare products. To prevent adverse reactions, consult a dermatologist before applying a new product to your skin. This article is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Get the MasterClass Annual Membership for exclusive access to video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Bobbi Brown, RuPaul, Tan France, and more.