Benzoyl peroxide can help kill the bacteria that contribute to acne. While it does not bleach dark skin, it can bleach clothing and other fabrics.
Benzoyl peroxide is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor before using this medicine if you: have ever had an allergic reaction to benzoyl peroxide or any other medicine. have damaged or broken skin where you need to use the treatment.
Treating acne
Starting with a milder retinoid product (such as adapalene 0.1% gel) and gradually increasing strength and frequency of use allows the body to adjust without excessive irritation. A benzoyl peroxide wash can also help eliminate bacteria on the skin that contribute to the development of acne.
Benzoyl Peroxide for Acne-Prone Skin. Salicylic acid (SA) and benzoyl peroxide (BPO) are two of the most popular non-prescription active ingredients in acne treatments. They can be found in many of the same types of anti-acne products, such as cleansers, treatment gels, moisturizers, and serums.
This skincare ingredient can be helpful for many people with acne-prone skin. However, there are some instances where your dermatologist may not recommend benzoyl peroxide. For instance, it may not be suitable for people with very sensitive skin or existing skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis.
Serious skin reactions (eg, skin irritation, contact dermatitis) including pain, irritation, itching, burning, redness, peeling, dryness, scaling, or stinging of the skin can occur during treatment with this medicine. Your doctor may tell you to use a moisturizer to treat skin irritation.
Benzoyl peroxide has been used for acne therapy for over 60 years. It can take as long as 3-4 months for full effect. It is harsh and will cause the skin to be very dry and peel, making moisturizing necessary. It's best used with the guidance of a dermatologist for optimal improvement.
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser has an average rating of 5.5 out of 10 from a total of 2 ratings on Drugs.com. 50% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 50% reported a negative effect. PanOxyl 10% Acne Foaming Wash has an average rating of 9.5 out of 10 from a total of 2 ratings on Drugs.com.
For sensitive skin, start with salicylic acid, since it's less likely to cause irritation. If you're already using an oral or topical treatment for acne, benzoyl peroxide might be a more effective option — but start with a lower concentration and gradually move up from there to see what your skin can tolerate.
Benzoyl peroxide
While it does not bleach dark skin, it can bleach clothing and other fabrics. Benzoyl peroxide can irritate or dry out the skin, so it is best to start with a 2.5% solution or a 4% wash and use it every other day, gradually working up to daily use with a more concentrated solution, if necessary.
Avoid products that contain retinol and Vitamin A because they deprive your skin of moisture. It's much better to use a moisturizer that is specially designed for black skin. Our Healing Body Balm will keep your skin moisturized naturally. It also helps heal eczema, psoriasis, and severely dry skin.
African black soap is valued as a gentle cleanser, especially for those with rosacea or skin irritation. Thanks to its antibacterial properties (from plantain extract), it can help treat and prevent acne breakouts.
The most common adverse effect of benzoyl peroxide is its bleaching quality, potentially causing the discoloration of colored fabrics and hair bleaching. At higher concentrations, topical benzoyl peroxide causes mild dryness, erythema, and scaling.
Try to stay clear of retinols and other acids (salicylic, glycolic, lactic) when using a product with benzoyl peroxide. If you do want to incorporate other actives, try and alternate days of application to prevent unnecessary dryness.
Use an antibacterial wash to clean the area, such as benzoyl peroxide. Try one with 2.5%-5% Benzoyl Peroxide to start, as you may find it can be very drying. Apply a topical salicylic acid to the spot. If you find the over-the-counter creams to be too harsh and drying, try a toner with salicylic acid.
So, the short answer is a resounding YES – Panoxyl does work. The caveat is that patients must understand this medication has its limitations, too. When benzoyl peroxide cannot clear more stubborn or severe acne, there are alternatives.
For Acne-Prone Skin
CeraVe is the #1 dermatologist-recommended cleanser brand for acne*, and our Acne Control Cleanser with 2% salicylic acid is formulated to clear acne, reduce blackheads and improve the appearance of pores, while purifying clay helps absorb excess oil.
If you require a robust and effective solution, the 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Foaming Wash is recommended. If you're looking for a daily solution to maintain skin health without excessive dryness, the 4% Benzoyl Peroxide Creamy Wash is the ideal choice.
You can usually leave a benzoyl peroxide gel, lotion, or cream on your face overnight. Other products, such as cleansing bars and solutions should be used to wash your face 1-2 times a day. Read the package instructions carefully for proper use.
If you use too much benzoyl peroxide, your skin may become irritated. Wash off as much as you can and wait for the irritation to go away. When your skin has calmed down, you can start using benzoyl peroxide again. Be careful to follow the instructions on the package.
You likely have mild hormonal acne if you experience the occasional breakout of blackheads and a few pimples. This grade of acne can usually be treated with skincare products containing active ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
Does benzoyl peroxide darken skin? Benzoyl peroxide does not usually darken your skin. Some brown or purplish spots may appear in the acne-affected areas, which are completely normal and part of the healing process. But in rare cases, benzoyl peroxide can cause hyperpigmentation and dark skin.
Home remedies, such as cleansing the skin, applying ice, and using benzoyl peroxide, can help shrink a cystic pimple. However, in some cases, cystic acne may require dermatological help. Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that causes large bumps to form under the skin.
Try a benzoyl peroxide wash that you can use every day, day and night. Most skin types can handle a twice daily BPO routine. But, sensitive skin may find it to be a bit too drying. If that's the case, reduce your use to two or three days a week.