Benzoyl Peroxide Formula

Benzoyl Peroxide (also referred to as BPO) is an antimicrobial treatment for acne. When applied to your skin, BPO penetrates pores and releases oxygen compounds that kill acne-causing bacteria. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help fight acne.

Another important function of benzoyl peroxide is to prevent antibiotic resistance. Topical and oral antibiotics are commonly used for the treatment of acne, but your skin’s bacteria can become resistant to them which renders these treatments ineffective. Due to its mechanism of action, benzoyl peroxide prevents skin bacteria from becoming resistant to antibiotics so they can keep working.

Directions:

• Apply a thin layer of benzoyl peroxide to all acne-prone areas of the skin.

Tips to avoid irritation:

It's not uncommon to experience some occasional redness and peeling from benzoyl peroxide, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. To reduce your side effects, follow these directions carefully.

• Apply just enough medication to lightly cover the affected areas. Using more does not mean it will work better! It often only means more irritation.
• If your skin dries easily, apply a facial moisturizer either immediately before, or immediately after.
• Do not apply the medication to your skin if it is irritated. You can skip a few days until the irritation resolves, and then resume application.

Things to keep in mind:

• Even if your acne starts to get better, keep applying the medication to keep your acne under control.
• Benzoyl peroxide can bleach clothing and towels – be careful! You might consider white towels and pillowcases.
• Benzoyl peroxide can break down generic tretinoin, making it ineffective. This medication should not be applied at the same time as tretinoin.
• Consistent usage is key!

If you become pregnant while taking this medication, discontinue use immediately and message your doctor for an alternative.