When selecting a benzoyl peroxide product, you may want to start with a 2.5 percent concentration, as it causes less drying and irritation, and then move to a 5 percent concentration if you see minimal results after six weeks.
The 2.5% benzoyl peroxide formulation was more effective than its vehicle and equivalent to the 5% and 10% concentrations in reducing the number of inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules).
"Even at low levels, benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and opens pores," says Dr. Zeichner. In fact, studies show that high amounts of benzoyl peroxide (the most available is 10 percent) are more irritating but no more effective than their lower-concentrated counterparts.
They all essentially do the same job, but if you were to ask a dermatologist, they're likely to recommend trying a lower strength to begin with. That's because, the higher you go, the more chance there is that you'll dry out the skin excessively and cause irritation.
Benzoyl peroxide is good for all types of acne, including cysts, blackheads and whiteheads, but it's particularly great at treating inflammatory cystic acne.
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.
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.
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.
Benzoyl peroxide is used to treat acne. It works as an antiseptic to reduce the number of germs (bacteria) on the surface of your skin. It comes as a gel or face wash containing 5% benzoyl peroxide. This is available to buy from pharmacies under the brand name Acnecide.
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.
Yes, you can use benzoyl peroxide and niacinamide at the same time. In fact, many experts suggest teaming highly potent and drying ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide with hydrating ones, such as niacinamide. With benzoyl peroxide penetrating further into the skin, it can sometimes cause some irritation and dryness.
Can I Use Both Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide Together? "It's safe to use both together at low concentrations to attack your acne on all fronts," the dermatologist explains.
Consider any medicines and skin care products you already use. Some may make your skin more sensitive, such as prescription retinoid creams or products containing retinol or benzoyl peroxide. Exfoliating while using these products can trigger acne breakouts or excessive dryness.
Benzoyl peroxide makes an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne. 2 Start with a lotion or gel in a 2.5 percent strength. Higher percentages are available but may irritate the skin. Start with a lower strength to allow your skin to become acclimated to the treatment.
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.
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.
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.
It can even remove dark spots and pimples or acne scars. The key difference between any benzoyl peroxide product and other topical antibiotics for acne like clindamycin is that our bodies do not build up an antibiotic resistance to the product.
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.
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.
Apply the clindamycin solution first and then the benzoyl peroxide gel as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Wash your hands after each use. Follow the instructions provided with these medications.
Differin (adapalene)
Benzac (benzoyl peroxide) is the most effective over-the-counter treatment for mild acne. Treats acne. Differin (adapalene) is commonly used for treating acne, but, it can cause skin irritation. Available over-the-counter from many brands.
Dermatologists recommend CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser for people with acne as it works to cleanse the skin and remove oil, without disrupting the skin's protective barrier. It won't clog pores or dry the skin out, and contains niacinamide and ceramides to help calm and moisturize irritated skin.
Your treatment plan could include salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide at the same time, but it is best to space them out to decrease your risk for peeling, redness, dermatitis and drying. Doctors suggests switching between products every night, or using one in the AM and the other in the night.
As for benzoyl peroxide and retinol, they cancel each other out. "It is not recommended to use benzoyl peroxide and retinoids together as they can literally cancel each other out rendering them less effective," explains Dr. Marchbein.