ACNE AND BENZOYL PEROXIDE – hero to black-and-white head civilians

Acne medication uses a number of natural and man-made chemicals that treats the skin to deal with acne, pimples and annoying blemishes. The one ingredient that never changes is Benzoyl Peroxide, the ‘Superman’ to our ‘Lex Luthor’ whiteheads.

When you look at your acne creams and lotions, you will always find benzyl peroxide on the list because it is the most active in clearing up acne problems. ProActiv and Clearasil are a few examples, as well as Oxy and products from Clean and Clear.

Over-the-counter gels, cleansers and lotions (as well as their stronger prescribed types) contain benzoyl peroxide which helps in mild to moderate acne. Whatever expensive brand or inexpensive local product, the chemical works the same way and is a first choice before invasive alternatives.

Benzoyl Peroxide works against the bacteria that causes acne called Propionibacteria Acnes (shortened to P. acnes). P. acnes will die in oxygen-filled environment. Oily skin blocks out oxygen on the skin and cause bacteria to grow.

Benzoyl Peroxide breaks down into oxygen when it reaches your pores and kills P. acne, lowering the bacteria count and reducing breakouts. It also makes dead skin cell fall off easily, clear up blocked pores and lower oily sebum levels.

Unfortunately, you need to continue after it’s cleared up as it is not an antibiotic, and bacteria will keep growing. Eventually, the bacteria will build up a resistance. High-strength benzoyl peroxide would be needed or another strong chemical. Either way, consult with your doctor for options.

Most medications use only 2.5 percent of benzyl peroxide because it is most effective. Other brands will consider five to 10 percent concentrations but they are still only affective as 2.5 percent due to added ingredients to dilute it so it will not dry easily when expose to air.

Start with 2.5 percent so your skin can get use to it. However, a small amount can irritate your skin and, if so, consult with your doctor. If no results are shown after a few weeks, try higher-strengths ones.

The best treatment is to apply a thin layer of lotion/gel/cream over clean and dry skin / affected acne area. It works as both spot treatment and a precaution to future breakouts. If night skin care treatments are being used, let the benzoyl peroxide lotion dry out first.

There are possible side effects for those with very sensitive skin. As mentioned, even 2.5 percent is high for some users. Irritation, burning, itchiness, skin peeling and possible swelling can happen for a while. Use small amounts to develop tolerance and work your way up.

You can also expect mildly dried or flaking skin which can be dealt with by applying oil-free moisturizing lotion twice a day. For prescribed lotions by dermatologists, they will give you this or other gels to fight off side effects.

If the above situations happen too frequent and painful, stop immediately and consult with your dermatologist.

On a lighter note, benzoyl peroxide bleaches towels and clothing so take care or a ‘white head’ will appear on your bed sheet. Additionally, if you put the cream on your body or face before bedtime, wear something old (or non-fashionable).

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