Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Spot Treatment

Benzoyl peroxide is an active therapeutic agent in many over-the-counter and prescription skin care treatments. It is supplied topically to treat mild to moderate acne spots. It is also a very effective adjunct therapy to other topical formulations in severe cases of acne. Products containing benzoyl peroxide come in many forms, including creams, gels, and lotions.

Benefits of Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is a proven acne treatment, and it has been used in many skin care products. Dermatologists and skincare experts widely recommend the therapeutic agent to reduce the appearance of acne. However, the effectiveness of this formulation varies from person to person. It is primarily used to eliminate acne-causing bacteria and can remain active as an acne treatment for an extended period.

Here are some benefits of Benzoyl Peroxide for people with Acne:

1. Packed with antibiotic properties

A benzoyl peroxide formulation is an antibiotic and kills bacteria that are responsible for causing acne. The bacteria are known as Propionibacterium, or P.acnes, which also results in inflammation. Benzoyl peroxide helps eliminate bacteria and is more effective than other topical solutions, including salicylic acid. Many acne treatments combine Benzoyl peroxide with other therapeutic agents to increase effectiveness.

2. Decreases Oil Production

Benzoyl peroxide Is extremely effective in reducing the skin’s oil production. It is believed that overactive glands are one reason for causing acne, excess oil blocks skin pores which prevent dead skin cells from sloughing away. Accumulation of dead skin cells further clogs the skin’s pores. This blockage turns into whiteheads or blackheads, which leads to pimples. Sometimes, pimples can develop into large painful cysts under the skin that can ultimately cause scarring. 

Is Benzoyl Peroxide make you peel?

Even if you start with a low dose, you may expect to have dry skin issues. Your skin may rough, peel, or become flaky too. These are some commonly reported side effects of a benzoyl peroxide cream. However, you can manage this dryness using a good quality moisturizer per your requirements. You can also consult your dermatologist to recommend a moisturizer that suits your skin type. If your skin feels super dry, apply the moisturizer first and then apply your benzoyl peroxide cream, gel or lotion. Make sure you leave a gap of 5 minutes between the application. Some people find their skin gets used to the therapeutic agent as time passes, and dryness disappears. However, your skin may take several days or weeks to adjust to the medication.

Experiencing some fairly intense dryness, peeling, flaking, redness, burning, or itching after applying the cream, gel, or lotion. Some people are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide and can’t handle the topical treatment.  If you are allergic to the formulation, you may experience swelling, severe redness, incredibly irritated skin, and blisters. If any such reactions exist, stop using it immediately and call your dermatologist immediately.

How long does it take to see improvement?

Like all other skin treatments, benzoyl peroxide takes time to exert its action. You may need to wait for 8 to 10 weeks, sometimes a bit more, to see noticeable changes in the appearance of acne. Results may vary, it is not possible the time your friend’s acne takes to heal, the same time your acne improves, your acne might make a bit more or less time than your friend. In the hope of getting quick results, don’t slather on more medication or apply more often than directed by your dermatologist. Excessive use may increase your chances of annoying side effects, and it won’t eliminate acne faster. You might get new breakouts at any time during the treatment, so don’t panic. As the therapy goes over time, you will slowly get fewer breakouts and then no breakouts.

Suppose you have been using an over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide preparation for more than 12 weeks and see no changes in the appearance of your acne. In that case, it is the right time to speak to a dermatologist for a prescription formulation. Using a benzoyl peroxide formulation under a dermatologist’s supervision is wise. This way, you will be less likely to experience side effects.

What to expect from a Benzoyl Peroxide cream?

Once you have decided to use a benzoyl peroxide product, use it as instructed by your dermatologist. Before starting a skin care treatment, knowing what to expect from it is essential, as it will help you get the best possible results. This is because many people discontinue using it before it ever has a chance to work.

So, when you are ready to start using a skin care product containing Benzoyl peroxide, be sure to be consistent with its use. Consistency plays a crucial role in treating acne with any skincare product. Skipping applications will no longer help you and set your treatment back. You will see quick results if you use it regularly without skipping doses.

Using a benzoyl peroxide product prescribed by a dermatologist is an effective way to eliminate stubborn acne. When over-the-counter products are not appropriate for acne, consider a prescription treatment to help get it under control in any situation. Prescription treatments always work better. Calling a dermatologist for a prescription treatment is the first step towards clearer skin.

If the treatment doesn’t work for you, don’t consider this a failure. Most people must try a few options to find the best conditions. By consulting a dermatologist, you are just one step closer to finding the best acne treatment. If you get the relief and the good results, don’t stop using your benzoyl peroxide product. The topical treatment doesn’t cure acne. If you discontinue, your acne will come back. This may be troubling sometimes, but having clear skin is worth it.