One of the most popular acne treatments used today is the use of a chemical called benzoyl peroxide. Jack Breitbart of Revlon laboratories first developed the use of benzoyl peroxide for treating acne in the 1920s. The chemical is typically placed over the affected areas in gel or cream form, in concentrations of 2.5% increasing to the usually effective 5% to up to 10%. According to montclair dermatology centers, 5 and 10% concentrations are not significantly more effective than 2.5% and 2.5% is usually better tolerated.

It 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, peeling and possibly swelling. To combat this, specialists from the montclair dermatology centers suggest an application of the lowest concentration and to gradually build up. Once tolerance is achieved, increasing the quantity or concentration for the second time and gaining tolerance at a higher level usually gives better subsequent acne clearance.

Other Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide

In addition to its therapeutic effect as a keratolytic (a chemical that dissolves the keratin plugging the pores), benzoyl peroxide also prevents new lesions by killing P. acnes. In one study, roughly 70% of participants using a 10% benzoyl peroxide solution experienced a reduction in acne lesions after 6 weeks. Unlike other forms of acne treatment, such as antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide has the advantage of being a strong oxidizer (essentially mild bleach) and thus does not appear to generate bacterial resistance. However, it routinely causes dryness, local irritation and redness. A sensible regimen may include the daily use of low-concentration (2.5%) benzoyl peroxide preparations, combined with suitable non-comedogenic moisturizers to help avoid over-drying the skin.

Safety Concerns Surrounding Benzoyl Peroxide

*Pure benzoyl peroxide is highly flammable, explosive, toxic, a possible tumor promoter, and may act as a mutagen, and should be handled with care.

*Avoid applying cream near or on hair growth as it may relegate facial hair if benzoyl peroxide is applied regularly. This is no major health risk as it will not affect the user in any way other than temporary hair loss.

*Higher concentrations are used for hair bleaching and teeth whitening. According to montclair dermatology centers, benzoyl peroxide, like most peroxides, is a powerful bleaching agent. Contact with fabrics or hair can cause permanent color dampening almost immediately. Even secondary contact can cause bleaching.