What are the common side effects of benzoyl peroxide. How to manage dry skin caused by benzoyl peroxide. When to seek medical attention for benzoyl peroxide reactions. What precautions should be taken when using benzoyl peroxide topically.

Understanding Benzoyl Peroxide as an Acne Treatment

Benzoyl peroxide is a widely used topical medication for treating acne. It works by combating acne-causing bacteria and reducing excess oil on the skin. While effective, it’s important to understand its proper use and potential side effects.

How Does Benzoyl Peroxide Work?

Benzoyl peroxide functions through two primary mechanisms:

• Antibacterial effect: It kills the bacteria responsible for acne
• Drying effect: It helps remove excess oils and dirt from the skin

These actions combined make benzoyl peroxide an effective treatment for various forms of acne.

Common Side Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide

While benzoyl peroxide is generally safe, it can cause some side effects in more than 1 in 10 people. Understanding these common reactions can help users manage their treatment more effectively.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is a frequent side effect of benzoyl peroxide use. To manage this:

• Apply an oil-free moisturizer for sensitive skin regularly
• Use a gentle lip balm to prevent chapping
• Take shorter showers with warm, not hot, water

Peeling or Red Skin

Skin peeling and redness can occur, especially in the early stages of treatment. To address this:

• Reduce the frequency of application
• Temporarily stop use if irritation is severe
• Avoid other skincare products until the skin improves
• Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen

It’s worth noting that redness may be less noticeable on darker skin tones.

Burning or Stinging Sensation

Some users experience a burning or stinging sensation upon application. To minimize this:

• Apply the product less frequently (once daily or every other day)
• Pause use for a few days if irritation is severe
• Consult a healthcare provider if discomfort persists

Serious Side Effects and Allergic Reactions

While rare, serious side effects can occur in less than 1 in 1,000 people using benzoyl peroxide. It’s crucial to recognize these symptoms and seek immediate medical attention when necessary.

When to Stop Using Benzoyl Peroxide

Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Swelling of the treated skin
• Blistering of the skin
• Symptoms that worsen or don’t improve within a few days

Signs of Severe Allergic Reaction

In rare cases, benzoyl peroxide can cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Seek emergency medical help if you notice:

• Sudden swelling of lips, mouth, throat, or tongue
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Tightness in the throat or trouble swallowing
• Skin, tongue, or lips turning blue, grey, or pale
• Sudden confusion, drowsiness, or dizziness
• Fainting or unresponsiveness
• In children: limpness, floppiness, or unusual unresponsiveness

These symptoms may be accompanied by a swollen, raised, itchy, blistered, or peeling rash.

Precautions When Using Benzoyl Peroxide

To ensure safe and effective use of benzoyl peroxide, certain precautions should be taken.

Who Should Avoid Benzoyl Peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide is not suitable for everyone. Avoid use if you:

• Are allergic to benzoyl peroxide
• Have very sensitive skin

Special Considerations

Consult a healthcare provider before using benzoyl peroxide if you:

• Have any existing skin conditions or allergies
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Plan to use it on a child

Proper Application and Use of Benzoyl Peroxide

Correct application of benzoyl peroxide is crucial for maximizing its benefits and minimizing side effects.

Application Tips

• Clean the affected area thoroughly before application
• Apply a thin layer to the affected areas only
• Start with once-daily application and increase gradually if needed
• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes
• Wash hands thoroughly after application

Combining with Other Skincare Products

Can benzoyl peroxide be used with other acne treatments? It’s generally safe to combine benzoyl peroxide with other acne treatments, but caution is advised. Some combinations may increase skin irritation. Always consult with a healthcare provider or dermatologist before combining treatments.

Managing Expectations and Treatment Duration

Understanding the timeline for benzoyl peroxide’s effectiveness can help users maintain realistic expectations and adhere to their treatment plan.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Improvement in acne symptoms is not immediate. Typically, users may start to see results within:

• 2-4 weeks for mild acne
• 4-6 weeks for moderate acne
• 6-8 weeks or more for severe acne

Consistent use is key to achieving and maintaining results.

Long-Term Use and Maintenance

Is it safe to use benzoyl peroxide long-term? For many individuals, long-term use of benzoyl peroxide is safe and effective for maintaining clear skin. However, it’s important to monitor for ongoing side effects and consult with a healthcare provider periodically to assess the need for continued treatment.

Alternative Acne Treatments and When to Consider Them

While benzoyl peroxide is effective for many, it may not be suitable for everyone. Understanding alternative options can help individuals make informed decisions about their acne treatment.

Over-the-Counter Alternatives

Other OTC acne treatments include:

• Salicylic acid
• Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)
• Tea tree oil
• Sulfur

Prescription Options

When OTC treatments are ineffective, prescription options may include:

• Topical retinoids
• Oral antibiotics
• Hormonal treatments
• Isotretinoin for severe cases

Consulting with a dermatologist can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for individual cases.

Lifestyle Factors and Acne Management

While topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide play a crucial role in acne management, lifestyle factors can significantly impact skin health and treatment efficacy.

Diet and Acne

Does diet affect acne? While the relationship between diet and acne is complex, some studies suggest that certain foods may influence acne severity. Consider:

• Reducing intake of high-glycemic foods
• Limiting dairy consumption, particularly skim milk
• Increasing consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant-rich foods

Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate acne for some individuals. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques may help:

• Regular exercise
• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Adequate sleep
• Time management and relaxation techniques

Skincare Routine

A consistent, gentle skincare routine can complement benzoyl peroxide treatment:

• Use non-comedogenic products
• Avoid harsh scrubs or over-cleansing
• Protect skin from sun damage with SPF
• Remove makeup thoroughly before bed

By combining proper use of benzoyl peroxide with these lifestyle considerations, individuals can optimize their acne management strategy and work towards clearer, healthier skin.

Side effects of benzoyl peroxide

Like all medicines, benzoyl peroxide can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

These common side effects of benzoyl peroxide happen in more than 1 in 10 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Dry skin

Apply a moisturiser and lip balm regularly. The best type of moisturiser is an oil-free face moisturiser for sensitive skin. Try to take shorter showers, using warm water rather than hot.

Peeling or red skin

Redness may be less obvious on brown or black skin. Try using the gel or wash less often, or stop using it for a few days until the irritation goes away, then start again. Do not use other products on your skin until it gets better.

Speak to a doctor if your symptoms do not get better or are severe.

Burning or stinging (skin irritation)

Try using the gel or wash less often (once a day instead of twice, or every other day). It might help to stop using the gel for a few days until the irritation goes away, then start again.

If the irritation does not go away after this time, stop using it and speak to a doctor.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or does not go away.

Serious side effects

Serious side effects are rare and happen in less than 1 in 1,000 people.

Stop using benzoyl peroxide if:

• the skin that you’re treating becomes swollen
• you get blisters on your skin

If your symptoms do not get better within a couple of days or if they get worse at any time, call a doctor or call 111 straight away.

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to benzoyl peroxide.

Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:

• your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
• you’re breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you’re choking or gasping for air)
• your throat feels tight or you’re struggling to swallow
• your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
• you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
• someone faints and cannot be woken up
• a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)

You or the person who’s unwell may also have a rash that’s swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.

These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

Other side effects

These are not all the side effects of benzoyl peroxide. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

Page last reviewed: 30 September 2022

Next review due: 30 September 2025

Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment)

Brand Names:Acne-10, Acne-Clear, Acne Foaming Cream Face Cleanser, Acne Treatment, Ben-Aqua, Benoxyl 10

Reviewed: June 23, 2020

Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect. It also has a mild drying effect, which allows excess oils and dirt to be easily washed away from the skin.

Benzoyl peroxide topical (for the skin) is used to treat acne.

There are many brands and forms of benzoyl peroxide available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Benzoyl peroxide topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

uses

What is Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment) used for?

• Acne

warnings

What is the most important information I should know about Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment)?

You should not use benzoyl peroxide if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• very sensitive skin.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have any skin conditions or allergies.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not use this medicine on a child without medical advice.

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment)?

Benzoyl peroxide topical can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. These reactions may occur just a few minutes after you apply the medicine, or within a day or longer afterward.

Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, itching; difficult breathing, feeling light-headed; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using benzoyl peroxide and call your doctor at once if you have any of these side effects on the treated skin:

• severe itching or burning;
• severe stinging or redness;
• swelling; or
• peeling.

Common side effects may include:

• mild stinging or burning;
• itching or tingly feeling;
• skin dryness, peeling, or flaking; or
• redness or other irritation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Can I take Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

C

Risk cannot be ruled out

Based on FDA pregnancy categories

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment)?

Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth.

Avoid using skin products that can cause irritation, such as harsh soaps, shampoos, hair coloring or permanent chemicals, hair removers or waxes, or skin products with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.

Dosage Guidelines & Tips

How to take Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment)?

Use Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

What should I do if I missed a dose of Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment)?

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

Overdose Signs

What happens if I overdose on Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment)?

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment),  call your doctor or the Poison Control center

(800) 222-1222

If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Benzoyl Peroxide Topical (Acne Treatment), call 911

911

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Drugs A-Z provides drug information from Everyday Health and our partners, as well as ratings from our members, all in one place. Cerner Multum™ provides the data within some of the Overview, Uses, Warnings, Side Effects, Pregnancy, Interactions, Dosage, Overdose, and Images sections. The information within all other sections is proprietary to Everyday Health. 

ICSC 0225 – BENZOYL PEROXIDE

ICSC 0225 – BENZOYL PEROXIDE

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	SPECIAL HAZARDS	PREVENTIVE MEASURES	FIRE EXTINGUISHING
FIRE AND EXPLOSION	Many reactions can lead to fire or explosion. Risk of fire or explosion. Explosive. See Chemical Hazards.	DO NOT use open flames, DO NOT spark, DO NOT SMOK. NO contact with flammable substances. DO NOT allow contact with hot surfaces. DO NOT subject to friction or shock. Use a hand tool that does not generate sparks.	Use plenty of water. In case of fire: cool drums, etc. spraying water. Fight fire from cover.

PREVENT DUST!
	SYMPTOMS	PREVENTIVE MEASURES	FIRST AID
Inhalation	Cough. Sore throat.	Use local exhaust or respiratory protection.	Fresh air, peace.
Leather	Redness.	Protective gloves. Protective clothing.	Remove contaminated clothing. Rinse and then wash skin with soap and water.
Eyes	Redness.	Wear protective goggles.	First of all, rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if possible without difficulty), then seek medical advice.
Ingestion		Do not eat, drink or smoke while working.	Rinse your mouth. Give one or two glasses of water to drink. Seek medical attention.

NOTES
Carrier solvents used in commercial formulations may alter physical and toxicological properties. Wash contaminated clothing with plenty of water as there is a risk of fire.

Benzoyl peroxide – description of the substance, pharmacology, use, contraindications, formula

Contents

• Structural formula

• Russian name

• English name

• Latin name

• chemical name

• Gross formula

• Pharmacological group of the substance Benzoyl peroxide

• Nosological classification

• CAS code

• pharmachologic effect

• Pharmacology

• Application of the substance Benzoyl peroxide

• Contraindications

• Application restrictions

• Use during pregnancy and lactation

• Side effects of benzoyl peroxide

• Dosage and administration

• Trade names with the active substance Benzoyl peroxide

Structural formula

Russian name

Benzoyl peroxide

English name

Benzoyl peroxide

Latin name

Benzoyli peroxydum ( 9037 8 genus Benzoyli peroxydi)

Chemical name

Dibenzoyl peroxide

Gross formula

C ₁₄ H ₁₀ O ₄

Pharmacological group of the substance Benzoyl peroxide

Antiseptics and disinfectants

Dermatotropic agents

Nosological classification

ICD-10 code list

CAS code

94-36-0

Pharmacological action

Pharmacological action 90 414-

antibacterial , keratolytic .

Pharmacology

Active against Propionibacterium acnes. Reduces lipids and fatty acids, has a moderate desquamative effect, reducing the appearance of comedones and acne. With local application, it is practically not absorbed. A small amount absorbed by the skin is metabolized to benzoic acid and excreted in the urine as benzoate.

Application of the substance Benzoyl peroxide

Acne.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity.

Restrictions for use

Pregnancy, lactation, under 12 years of age.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Use during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary.

FDA fetal category C.

Stop breastfeeding for the duration of treatment (excretion in milk is possible).

Side effects of the substance Benzoyl peroxide

Hyperemia, peeling, swelling and dryness of the skin, hair discoloration, allergic contact dermatitis.

Method of administration and doses

Topically (avoid contact with eyes, lips and mouth), thoroughly cleanse the skin and apply pointwise to comedones 1-3 times a day.