What should you not use after benzoyl peroxide?

Author: Anastasia Rohan DVM  |  Last update: Tuesday, May 3, 2022

Some products and medicines can irritate your skin if you use them while you're treating your skin with benzoyl peroxide gel or wash. Do not use benzoyl peroxide with any other medicines that may have drying or irritating effects on your skin. These include alcohol-based skincare products.

What should you not use benzoyl peroxide with?

Don't mix: Benzoyl peroxide + vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide + retinol (with the exception of a specifically formulated acne treatment called Epiduo), benzoyl peroxide + AHAs/BHAs.

Can you use other products with benzoyl peroxide?

Works Well With: Benzoyl peroxide works well in combination with salicyclic acid to treat acne. Don't Use With: Don't use multiple benzoyl peroxide products at once. Benzoyl peroxide may also reduce the efficacy of vitamin C products when used as part of the same routine.

Is it okay to use moisturizer after benzoyl peroxide?

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.

Can I use niacinamide with benzoyl peroxide?

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.

BENZOYL PEROXIDE Explained! EVERYTHING! How to use it, Before and After, Side Effects and More

What goes on first moisturizer or benzoyl peroxide?

The best way to apply to apply benzoyl peroxide is by cleansing the skin, then applying non-comedogenic moisturiser, wait for the cream to get absorbed and dry out on the skin. It hardly takes 5-10 minutes and lastly apply benzoyl peroxide cream/ointment.

Can I use benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid together?

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.

Can benzoyl peroxide worsen acne?

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.

Can I use Vitamin C after benzoyl peroxide?

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.

Will benzoyl peroxide clear acne scars?

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.

Can I use AHA and BHA with benzoyl peroxide?

Benzoyl Peroxide + AHAs/BHAs (Exfoliating Acids)

Both salicylic acid (a BHA) and benzoyl peroxide are effective against acne, but using them at the same time can lead to excessively dry skin. Try using them on alternating nights instead for an equally effective anti-acne regimen!

Can I use BHA after benzoyl peroxide wash?

The truth is that salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide both have their benefits, so the most effective way to treat breakouts is to use both. Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can work beautifully together to deliver a potent one-two punch! First, use BHA to exfoliate the skin.

Can you use vitamin C in the morning and benzoyl peroxide at night?

Benzoyl Peroxide can potentially oxidise Vitamin C, which will in turn make it less effective. Use them in your routine like this: Much like retinoids, these two will need to be kept separate. And since Vitamin C is such a gun in the AM, keep that for mornings only and use your Benzoyl Peroxide at night.

Should I moisturize at night if I have acne?

You should absolutely moisturize your skin even if you have active acne. It's an absolute myth that moisturizing your face will worsen your acne. In fact, moisturizers are necessary to keep acne-prone skin as relaxed as possible.

Why am I breaking out even though I wash my face?

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.

Is CeraVe good for acne?

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.

Can I use benzoyl peroxide in the morning and salicylic acid at night?

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.

Is niacinamide good for acne?

Niacinamide helps build cells in the skin while also protecting them from environmental stresses, such as sunlight, pollution, and toxins. Treats acne. Niacinamide may be helpful for severe acne, especially inflammatory forms like papules and pustules. Over time, you may see fewer lesions and improved skin texture.

Which is better for acne benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid?

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.

Do I use niacinamide before benzoyl peroxide?

For acne prone or oily people, this hydration “tricks” oil glands into making less oil. Products containing Niacinamide are fantastic to pair with dehydrating ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinols to balance the skin.

Can I use toner after benzoyl peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide may be used up to twice per day. After cleansing and toning, apply the product in a thin layer around the entire affected area of skin. Let the product dry for a few seconds before applying your moisturizer.

How do you apply benzoyl peroxide cream effectively?

How to use benzoyl peroxide 5% wash
  1. Wet the area you want to treat.
  2. Place a small amount of the product onto your hands.
  3. Smooth it onto the affected area.
  4. Keep the wash on your skin for no more than 1 to 2 minutes.
  5. Rinse your face thoroughly with water.
  6. Gently pat your skin dry.

Can I use Paula's Choice BHA with benzoyl peroxide?

Paula's Choice Skincare CLEAR line offers two benzoyl peroxide–based solutions for you to try. If you have stubborn to severe acne, be sure to use the benzoyl peroxide–based product twice per day, morning and evening, after applying the BHA exfoliant.

Can I use salicylic acid with niacinamide?

Can niacinamide and salicylic acid be used together? The simple answer is yes. They complement each other well. Being oil soluble, salicylic acid can penetrate deeper into the skin layers, but it can also dehydrate and irritate skin.

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