Benzoyl peroxide in skin care products: A classic in acne treatment

February 2024
The Derma Check AI

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BENZOYL PEROXIDE

  • Type of ingredient: Acne treatment
  • Main benefits: Fights acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation and prevents clogged pores
  • Who it is suitable for: People with acne, especially inflammatory and bacterial acne
  • Frequency of use: Once or twice a day, depending on skin tolerance
  • Can be combined with: Non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens
  • Do not use with: Other skin irritating or drying ingredients such as salicylic acid without medical advice

Introduction to benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is a proven active ingredient in acne treatment. Due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is often used in skin care products for acne treatment.


Advantages of benzoyl peroxide

Fights bacteria

Benzoyl peroxide has a strong antibacterial effect and is effective against acne-causing bacteria.

Reduces inflammation

It helps to reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne.

Prevents clogged pores

Thanks to its keratolytic effect, it helps to keep the pores clear and thus prevents new acne breakouts.


Possible side effects

Benzoyl peroxide can cause skin irritation, dryness and redness in some people. It can also have a bleaching effect on hair and fabrics.


Application of benzoyl peroxide

Start with a low concentration

Start with a lower concentration (e.g. 2.5%) and increase it if necessary and if it is well tolerated.

Combination with moisturizer

After using benzoyl peroxide, it is important to apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to soothe the skin and prevent moisture loss.


How not to use benzoyl peroxide

  • Do not combine with other acne active ingredients: You should not combine benzoyl peroxide with other acne active ingredients such as salicylic acid without medical advice, as this can lead to increased skin irritation.
  • Caution with sensitive skin: If you have very sensitive skin, use with caution at first.

FAQ about benzoyl peroxide

Can benzoyl peroxide treat all types of acne?

Benzoyl peroxide is particularly effective against inflammatory acne. It may be less effective for non-inflammatory acne.

How quickly does benzoyl peroxide work?

The effect can vary depending on skin type, but some users report improvements within a few weeks.

Should benzoyl peroxide only be applied to acne areas?

It can be applied selectively to acne, but also over the entire surface to prevent new breakouts.


Conclusion

Benzoyl peroxide remains an essential ingredient in acne treatment. Its ability to effectively fight acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation makes it a popular choice for many sufferers. It is important to keep the skin sufficiently moisturized during treatment and to gradually increase the application to achieve the best results with minimal side effects.

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The Derma Check AI
The Derma Check's AI has been trained with the help of numerous scientific studies. She specializes in cosmetic ingredients and their effects.