An Overview to the Skincare Advantages of Benzoyl Peroxide

There's a good possibility we've come across the acne department of our neighborhood drugstore when exploring the skincare line. If you have skin like mine that is prone to breakouts, we have specifically sought out this area of the store in a frantic attempt to discover a solution for troublesome acne. Though most of us know that pimples always seem to occur at the most undesirable moment, no one passes through life without experiencing them at least once. For some of us, however, breakouts are more often.

Depending on how severe the acne is, there are several treatment options. More severe cases of acne usually necessitate a trip to the dermatologist for prescription drugs, while milder occurrences may only require a medicated cleanser purchased at the store. Benzoyl peroxide has been identified by the majority of dermatologists as one of the most potent substances for treating acne. Now let's take a closer look at benzoyl peroxide and see how it functions, what advantages it can have, and how to use it in our beauty routine. Its wide range of applications outside of the acne domain may surprise us.

Now let's familiarize ourselves with benzoyl peroxide.

The popular topical antibacterial therapy benzoyl peroxide has FDA approval for treating mild to severe acne. This chemical is easily obtainable and reasonably priced for treating acne, and it may typically be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription. It is available in many formulations such as gel, cream, lotion, foam, solution, cleaning bar, or wash, and its concentrations range from 2.5% to 10%. 

Benzoyl peroxide used topically has antibacterial properties against C acnes, a major acne-causing bacterium that resides in hair follicles and on the skin. Although it may be used on its own, it is most effective when combined with topical antibiotics and topical retinoids as acne treatments. 

Despite having several skin-benefiting qualities, benzoyl peroxide is most well-known for its ability to treat acne. Upon absorption by the skin, benzoyl peroxide transforms into benzoic acid, which releases unstable oxygen-containing molecules known as reactive oxygen species. These molecules readily combine with other biological components and degrade the DNA and proteins of bacteria that cause acne. It helps unclog pores by eliminating dead skin cells and excess oil in addition to eliminating the bacteria that causes acne. Acne is shown to improve when excess oil and pathogens that cause acne are reduced. 

Benzoyl Peroxide Side Effects

Colored materials becoming bleached is the most frequent negative effect of benzoyl peroxide. An excellent piece of advice for those who are new to using benzoyl peroxide is to pat dry with a white towel after using the product to cleanse their face or body to make sure no unattractive stains remain.

Similar to the majority of active components in skincare products, there is a chance of local irritation, particularly if we combine many actives in our routine. With higher benzoyl peroxide concentrations, mild dryness and redness may occur; these are frequent side effects that may be effectively treated by reducing the frequency of usage or moisturizing the skin afterward. 

To lessen irritation, we can also use a product that contains benzoyl peroxide that has been micronized. These products have tiny particles that penetrate the skin more effectively since they are more accessible to the skin.  

When administered concurrently with some topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide can interact with the retinoid, reducing its efficacy and therefore nullifying its advantages. Applying our retinoid in the evening and benzoyl peroxide in the morning is an easy method to avoid this. Because benzoyl peroxide during the day might make skin more sensitive to the sun, make sure to apply sunscreen. 

Ways to Utilize Benzoyl Peroxide in Our Skincare Regimen

Using benzoyl peroxide consistently for up to 8 to 12 weeks might result in noticeable improvements in flare-ups of acne. It is noteworthy that the most efficacious way of treating acne is through prevention. 

Fight the temptation to go back to our previous habits once our skin starts to clean up—using a benzoyl peroxide solution on a daily basis will be necessary to keep the results. Starting with a face clearing bar or gel or cream cleanser once or twice a day is highly recommended. Particularly if we are just beginning off, stick to 4% to 5% on the face to prevent potential dryness and irritation.

With good reason, benzoyl peroxide is a fighter for acne. Because to its accessibility, affordability, and positive side effect profile, the majority of individuals may safely and successfully include it into their skincare routine. Follow the aforementioned advice for the best outcomes with the fewest, if any, negative consequences. 

Benzoyl peroxide can be used to treat a variety of ailments, including folliculitis, acne, body odor, and many more. Consult a dermatologist for more advice if we are still having trouble achieving our skincare objectives.