Benzoyl Peroxide

Ingredient name

Benzoyl Peroxide

Type of ingredient

Antibacterial

Commonly found in

Facial cleansers, body washes, lotions, creams and gels.

What are the benefits of benzoyl peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide is an effective topical treatment for inflammatory acne. It treats and prevents acne breakouts by targeting the bacteria that causes acne, reducing the buildup of dead skin cells and unclogging skin pores. 

What is benzoyl peroxide? 

Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is an organic compound in the peroxide family. It is a powerful antimicrobial agent that is effective at reducing Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria that contribute to acne in the skin. It also has keratolytic properties, so it can soften and loosen dead skin cells on the surface. It also has comedolytic properties, as it can help unclog pores and prevent the formation of acne. 

Benzoyl-peroxide

Is benzoyl peroxide safe for all skin types?

Benzoyl peroxide is available in a range of concentrations in over-the-counter acne products, from 2.5% to 10%. It is generally well tolerated, but those with sensitive skin may experience side effects such as peeling, irritation and dryness of the skin. In those with sensitive skin, it is best to start with a lower concentration. 

Contraindications

Benzoyl peroxide has a bleaching quality that can cause discoloration of colored fabrics. Do not combine benzoyl peroxide with Vitamin C, as it can decrease the efficacy of a Vitamin C product. Benzoyl peroxide also increases skin sensitivity to the sun, so it is important to limit UV exposure and apply sunscreen to decrease the risk of photosensitivity.

It is contraindicated in those with a known history of hypersensitivity to benzoyl peroxide. Patients with hypersensitivity to cinnamon and other benzoic acid derivatives should be cautious when using benzoyl peroxide, as cross-reactivity may occur.

Sources

Sagransky M, Yentzer BA, Feldman SR. Benzoyl peroxide: a review of its current use in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2009 Oct;10(15):2555-62. doi: 10.1517/14656560903277228. PMID: 19761357.

Foti C, Romita P, Borghi A, Angelini G, Bonamonte D, Corazza M. Contact dermatitis to topical acne drugs: a review of the literature. Dermatol Ther. 2015 Sep-Oct;28(5):323-9. 

Matin T, Goodman MB. Benzoyl Peroxide. [Updated 2022 Oct 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537220/#