Benzoyl peroxide products for acne are very effective and used by many people who use them successfully to become acne free. Benzoyl peroxide is the main active ingredient in products such as Clearasil, ProActive and the Acne Free range of products. The side effects from using benzoyl peroxide products are usually mild and most people with mild to moderate acne find them to be very useful in treating their acne. How does benzoyl peroxide work and how should it be used to be the most effective? We'll try to answer your questions here.
How do Benzoyl Peroxide Products Work?
Acne is caused by the bacteria Propionibacteria acnes which needs an oxygen free atmosphere to grow. This bacteria thrives in the pores of the skin which become clogged by dust, dirt, dead skin cells which happens when the hormones that increase during puberty produce too much sebum. The sebum attracts the dust and dirt resulting in clogging of the pores and encourages the growth of the acne causing bacteria. Benzoyl peroxide releases oxygen into the skin's pores and prevents the bacteria from growing. However, once the acne is under control the underlying causes, the excess of sebum clogging the pores, will still be present so treatment should continue or new breakouts and flareups will occur. In addition it is best to use benzoyl peroxide all over the skin, not just in the affected spots, to prevent outbreaks occurring on previously clear skin.
Benzoyl peroxide products are available in a range of different strengths and preparations. We recommend that you start with a 2.5% gel which is very effective and will give you the minimum of side effects. Only if this does not work sufficiently well should you increase the concentration to 10%. Gently wash your face once or twice a day, no more, and then apply the gel all over the areas that are affected, not just the spots, to make sure you prevent the clear skin from breaking out. For those who have acne on the body you can purchase a benzoyl peroxide body wash.
Are There any Side Effects?
Benzoyl peroxide products have been known to cause some side effects but these are generally mild, especially if you start with a low concentration and only increase it when your skin has become accustomed. Some people have experienced redness, irritation and burning sensations as well as some flaking of the skin. These symptoms are generally very mild and will subside in a few days but if you find they are more severe stop using the preparation and talk to a dermatologist who may be able to offer you alternatives.
You should also take care when using a benzoyl peroxide product as the active ingredient is a bleach and can damage your clothes and even your hair! When using a body wash containing benzoyl peroxide you should make sure you are thoroughly dry before putting on your clothes or laying down to sleep or you could bleach your clothes or the bedclothes!
Are Benzoyl Peroxide Products Safe to Use Long Term?
If you have more than the occasional acne breakout you may be using a benzoyl peroxide product for a very long time? Are they safe to use this way? It is known that these products produce free radicals in the skin which have been associated with skin cancer but studies have shown that this is not the case and that long term use is safe. However there have not been any studies to date on the effect of benzoyl peroxide on unborn or nursing babies. Although no one has shown that using these products when you are pregnant or nursing is harmful to your baby it has not been shown to be safe so it is best to avoid their use in these circumstances.
Conclusion
In conclusion then we can say that benzoyl peroxide products are safe, effective treatments for mild to moderate acne and are freely available to buy. If you use them sensibly and start with a lower concentration product you should not have more than temporary side effects and you should see a big improvement in your acne and achieve a clear skin in a reasonably short time.
