Benzoyl peroxide was first made in 1905 and came into medical use in the 1930s. It is on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. Benzoyl peroxide is available as a generic medication and over the counter.
Benzoyl peroxide is effective for reducing the number and severity of acne lesions. It has a bactericidal effect on Cutibacterium acnes bacteria associated with acne and does not induce antibiotic resistance. It may be combined with salicylic acid, sulfur, erythromycin or clindamycin (antibiotics), or adapalene (a synthetic retinoid). Two common combination drugs include benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin and adapalene/benzoyl peroxide, an unusual formulation considering most retinoids are deactivated by peroxides. Combination products such as benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide/salicylic acid appear to be slightly more effective than benzoyl peroxide alone for the treatment of acne lesions.
Benzoyl peroxide for acne treatment is typically applied to the affected areas in gel, cream, or liquid, in concentrations of 2.5% increasing through 5.0%, and up to 10%. No strong evidence supports the idea that higher concentrations of benzoyl peroxide are more effective than lower concentrations.
Benzoyl peroxide commonly causes initial dryness and sometimes irritation, although the skin develops tolerance after a week or so. A small percentage of people are much more sensitive to it and liable to suffer burning, itching, crusting, and possibly swelling. Applying the lowest concentration and building up as appropriate is most logical. Once tolerance is achieved, increasing the quantity or concentration and gaining tolerance at a higher level may give better subsequent acne clearance. Irritation can also be reduced by avoiding harsh facial cleansers and wearing sunscreen prior to sun exposure.
Active ingredient in Proactiv is BP, and as well PCA skin care carries a facial wash and acne cream with BP that is at the same time moisturizing. When using BP it’s important to add some moisturizing to the skin that will help skin not to get too dry form BP.
Brilliant Massage Therapy,
Burlignton, Vermont
