Benzoyl peroxide creates free radicals and is known to cause premature skin aging, just like repeated sun exposure or persistent acne. Damage is determined by the concentration of benzoyl peroxide and the frequency and duration of use.
When benzoyl peroxide products are used properly and in a very light application, they will not cause wrinkles. If they are used too heavily they can over dry the skin and anytime the skin is over dried, existing lines and wrinkles will become more apparent, particularly fine lines.
The side effects of benzoyl peroxide can affect the areas of skin to which a person applies it. They can include: dryness and peeling skin. irritation, which can cause a burning or stinging sensation.
This dehydrated skin condition is only temporary and does not affect the skin's collagen and elastin or age the skin in any way. Second, while benzoyl peroxide does create an oxidative environment, which creates free radicals, it's important to understand that not all free radicals are bad for you.
Is it safe to take for a long time? It is generally OK to use Benzoyl peroxide for a long time, as long as you do not have any serious side effects. When you stop using benzoyl peroxide you may find that acne comes back. You may want to keep using it to keep acne under control.
Skin side effects
Benzoyl peroxide works by peeling away the skin to get rid of dead skin cells, excessive oil, and bacteria that may be trapped underneath. Such effects can lead to dryness, as well as redness and excessive peeling. You might notice itching and general irritation at the site of application too.
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.
Dermatologists have long noted that the skin of acne sufferers appears to age more slowly than the skin of those with no history of acne. Signs of aging such as wrinkles and skin thinning often appear much later in people who have experienced acne in their lifetime.
As you continue to use the benzoyl peroxide, your skin builds up a tolerance to the medication. The side effects ease up. As for those pimples, you may still be getting new breakouts. But, if you take a really close look at your skin, you may notice those pimples aren't quite as big and inflamed.
Using benzoyl peroxide topically will give you even-looking skin tone due to its bleaching properties. With regular use, it might also make your skin appear brighter.
Benzoyl peroxide is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans (Group 3).
Treatments that work on top of the skin include Benzoyl Peroxide, salicylic acid, or a retinoid treatment. Dr. Reed says she recommends a variety of these treatments and a combination approach to treating acne can be particularly effective. Retinoids and salicylic acid focus more on the skin's surface.
During the first 3 weeks you are using benzoyl peroxide, your skin may become irritated. Also, your acne may seem to get worse before it gets better. If your skin problem has not improved within 4 to 6 weeks, check with your doctor.
First, lather your face with a Benzoyl Peroxide wash. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Then rinse it off with water.
Adapalene is a third-generation topical retinoid primarily used in the treatment of mild-moderate acne, and is also sometimes used off-label to treat aging as well as other skin conditions. It is effective for the treatment of mild to moderate acne where comedones, papules and pustules predominate.
benzoyl peroxide may be effective for fine lines, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
It is recommended that you use benzoyl peroxide products once or twice each day. If you have sensitive skin or you experience excessive skin redness or peeling, just use the product once each day at night time.
For example, if you suffer from hormonal acne, salicylic acid tends to be effective, while benzoyl peroxide might be all you need if you have garden-variety whiteheads.
Benzoyl peroxide is a bactericidal substance, meaning that it kills bacteria. Propionibacterium acnes is the type of bacteria that is involved in the growth of acne. Benzoyl peroxide effectively kills this acne causing bacteria and is available as an over-the-counter product in different forms.
If you have blackheads and whiteheads, salicylic acid alone should work well to clear out your pores. If your acne tends to be inflammatory, such as papules and pustules, opt for benzoyl peroxide to stop outbreaks at the source. For sensitive skin, start with salicylic acid, since it's less likely to cause irritation.
1 If you're just beginning with your benzoyl peroxide treatment, start using moisturizer now, even before you notice any uncomfortable dryness. You may be able to stave off the worst of it. If you've already succumbed to benzoyl peroxide-induced dryness and flakiness, slather on moisturizer as often as necessary.
You should avoid using Vit. C with benzoyl peroxide, which can oxidize the Vit. C and, therefore, make it less potent. You can still use your benzoyl peroxide products, just not in the same part of your routine as the Vit.
Your skin is very smart; it regulates itself and produces only as much sebum as it needs to stay healthy, hydrated, and youthful. However, when we wash it too much, it first becomes overly dry. This leads to a backup of dead skin, and in turn triggers an overproduction of sebum.