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.
Benzoyl peroxide is a bleaching agent and can turn the skin whiter. While you are using topical benzoyl peroxide, you may notice your skin turning one shade lighter after prolonged use.
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.
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.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a characteristic of acne, and benzoyl peroxide does little to help. It can create significantly more hyperpigmentation, especially in medium to darker skin because of the irritation that it can cause.
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 again, you can start using benzoyl peroxide again. Be careful to follow the instructions on the package.
In higher concentrations, the product can be found in teeth whitening agents and hair bleaching products because it does have a bleaching quality. It can even remove dark spots and pimples or acne scars.
Benzoyl Peroxide and Premature Skin Aging:
Benzoyl peroxide creates free radicals and is known to cause premature skin aging, just like repeated sun exposure or persistent acne.
Its enduring popularity goes beyond its availability and affordability — benzoyl peroxide can help treat inflammatory acne lesions and related scarring. It's most helpful when used together with other treatments, such as topical retinoids.
This medication is used to treat mild to moderate acne. It may be used in combination with other acne treatments. When applied to the skin, benzoyl peroxide works by reducing the amount of acne-causing bacteria and by causing the skin to dry and peel.
Before applying, wash the affected area with a nonmedicated cleanser. Then rinse and pat dry. Using a circular motion, apply a thin layer of the mask evenly over the affected area. Allow the mask to dry for 15 to 25 minutes.
Salicylic acid is more effective for blackheads and whiteheads. Benzoyl peroxide works well for mild pustules. The severity of your breakouts. Both ingredients are intended for mild breakouts, and they can take several weeks to take full effect.
As a pimple heals, your body sometimes produces cells with too much melanin in them to replace the damaged skin. This results in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which we sometimes just call a dark spot.
It's normal for benzoyl peroxide to burn or sting just a little bit when you apply it. Your skin may also get red and a little itchy. 1 This doesn't necessarily mean you're allergic to benzoyl peroxide. It's just a typical side effect, especially during the early stages of treatment.
Thoroughly rinse off benzoyl peroxide cleansers. Let benzoyl peroxide creams and lotions dry completely before dressing, or lying on your pillow at night. And always wash your hands well after using any benzoyl peroxide treatment.
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.
How long does it take for benzoyl peroxide to start working? Generally it takes around 4 weeks for your acne to improve, but full effects from the medication can take 2 to 3 months. Keep in mind that your acne will get worse in the first few weeks before it starts getting better.
Often found spot treatments and acne-focused skincare products, benzoyl peroxide is generally okay to use either in the morning or night, with one exception. "Benzoyl peroxide can be used during the daytime, but is often combined into formulations with other acne-fighting retinoids.
Benzoyl peroxide is an antimicrobial, which means it helps reduce the amount of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. 3 Less bacteria leads to less breakouts. Benzoyl peroxide also helps keep the pores clear from blockages. It's the most effective over-the-counter acne treatment available.
If you use a product containing benzoyl peroxide, it is best to wait until this product has been fully absorbed before applying a serum and/or moisturiser. Benzoyl peroxide works best when it has the chance to absorb into the skin first. This only takes a few seconds.
You've probably seen these emergency pimple treatments at the drugstore — usually an extra-strong solution of salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide. And yep, they can actually get rid of pimples overnight.
But for an occasional breakout, there's an effective way to tame it at home. The best way to make a zit go away fast is to apply a dab of benzoyl peroxide, which you can buy at a drug store in cream, gel or patch form, says Shilpi Khetarpal, MD. It works by killing bacteria that clogs pores and causes inflammation.
For most people, the redness appears immediately after use and fades within a few minutes to an hour, although it can last longer. If your skin is very irritated, start with a lower concentration of benzoyl peroxide first, and move up. There is no reason to use a 10% benzoyl peroxide if a 2.5% will do.