Benzoyl peroxide topical

Topical benzoyl peroxide is a well-tolerated and effective acne treatment. It works by delivering oxygen into the pores, which helps kill the bacteria that leads to acne. It also helps unclog pores by gently exfoliating dead skin cells and reducing oil buildup. 

Benzoyl peroxide is available in various concentrations (typically 2.5% to 10%) and formulations, such as gels, creams, washes, and foams. It is advised to start with lower concentrations and gradually increase as tolerated. 

Benzoyl peroxide is often recommended for treating mild acne and may be used in combination with topical retinoids or antibiotics in cases of moderate-to-severe acne. It’s generally considered safe for long-term use, including during pregnancy, and results are often seen within four to six weeks of consistent use.

Common side effects include dryness, irritation, redness, and peeling, particularly when you first start using it. Daily use of non-comedogenic moisturizers and broad-spectrum sunscreen is advised in order to minimize irritation and protect the skin.

Benzoyl peroxide 10% is used:

• For the treatment of acne

Topical antibiotic

Stop use and ask a doctor if:

• Irritation becomes severe

The cost of benzoyl peroxide varies depending on factors such as the formulation and concentration of the product, the brand, and where you buy it. But it is a relatively inexpensive active ingredient available in a number of over-the-counter products. In general, over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide may range in price from about $3 to $35.

You can buy products that contain benzoyl peroxide over-the-counter at various pharmacies and online retailers. Some benzoyl peroxide products are only available via prescription from a healthcare provider; these products typically combine benzoyl peroxide with other active ingredients for managing acne, such as antibiotics or retinoids.

• Do not use if you have sensitive skin

• Do not use if you are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide

• Skin irritation and dryness is more likely to occur if you use another topical acne medication at the same time. If this occurs only use one topical acne medication at a time

• Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and use a sunscreen

• Avoid contact with the eyes, lips, and mouth

• Avoid contact with hair and dyed fabrics which may be bleached by this product

• Skin irritation may occur characterized by redness, burning, itching, peeling, or possibly swelling

• Irritation may be reduced by using the product less frequently or in a lower concentration

• If swallowed get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away

There are other medications prescribed to treat acne, some of which may be better suited to you than others. If you’re interested in finding an alternative to benzoyl peroxide, talk with your provider to learn more about other medications that may work well for you.

Other over-the-counter acne treatments may include one or more of the following active ingredients:

• Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), including glycolic acid and lactic acid

• Azelaic acid

• Retinol 

• Salicylic acid 

Prescription acne treatment options include:

• Clascoterone (Winlevi^®)

• Hormonal birth control pills, including Beyaz^®, Ortho Tri-Cyclen^®, and Yaz^®

• Oral retinoids such as isotretinoin (Absorica^®) 

• Other topical prescription retinoids, including tazarotene (Tazorac^®) and tretinoin (Retin-A^®)

• Spironolactone (Aldactone^®, CaroSpir^®)

• Topical medications that include salicylic acid or azelaic acid 

• Topical or oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline, minocycline, or sarecycline

• Combination medications

Medical procedures that may be used instead of or in addition to medications to help manage acne include:

• Acne surgery

• Chemical peels

• Corticosteroid injections

• Laser or light treatments

*This information is from the benzoyl peroxide 10% gel label used by Axia Medical Solutions, LLC. See the full label for more complete information. Benzoyl peroxide may also be the active ingredient in other medications, and this information may not be accurate for all medications that include the active ingredient benzoyl peroxide.