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Benzoyl Peroxide
*) Benzoyl peroxide (Pronounced - ben-zoil peh-rok-side) was the first agent to be proven effective in the treatment of mild to moderate acne and has been used for several decades.
*) Benzoyl peroxide's principal side effect is to cause dryness of the skin.
*) Benzoyl peroxide destroys *P. acnes (the bacteria that causes acne) and may also reduce oil production.
Some Brand Names Containing Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is available *OTC in lotions, gels, creams and cleansing liquids you apply to the affected area of the skin.
- Clearasil
- Fostex
- Persa-Gel
- PanOxyl Dryox
- Proactiv
- Oxy-5
- Oxy-10
Many of these products contain benzoyl peroxide in strengths of 2.5 percent, 5 percent, or 10 percent. It's best to try the lower dosage level first, to keep your skin from getting too dry. If your face doesn't clear up while using these products, or if your skin gets overly dry or breaks out in a rash, contact your doctor.
Benzoyl peroxide can also increase your sensitivity to sun, causing you to burn more easily. If you use a product with benzoyl peroxide remember to wear sunscreen during the day to protect your skin.
Other products (including some Clearasil and Oxy products) contain sulfur, sulfur combined with resorcinol, or salicylic acid.
Benzoyl peroxide can bleach hair and fabric, including sheets, towels and clothing, so care should be taken when applying it. An old shirt should be worn overnight, when benzoyl peroxide is applied to the back or chest.
Do not allow benzoyl peroxide medication to get into your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Do not use benzoyl peroxide on children less than 12 years of age without talking to your doctor.
Side Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide may cause side effects:
- Excessive dryness or peeling of skin
- Tingling
- Feeling of warmth
- Slight stinging
If any of these side effects become severe or you experience other serious side effects, call your doctor.
Always read the package insert pamphlet that comes with the acne product you buy, and follow the instructions for proper use and safety. Before buying any product you haven't already used, it's best to read the labeling and, if possible, ask the pharmacist how the product works and what it should be used for. And, if still in doubt, check with your doctor.
Glossary For This Page
*P. acnes
P. acnes stands for Propionibacterium acnes. P. acnes is a Gram-positive, *microaerophilic *bacterium that causes skin wounds.
*OTC (over-the-counter)
Products you can buy at a pharmacy or on store shelves without a doctor's prescription, such as acne topical medicines, cold medicine, medicines for stomach pain, or pain relievers. A few examples - aspirin, advil (pain reliever), aleve (pain reliever), ibuprofen (pain reliever), antacids (heartburn, gas, indigestion), Monistat (treats yeast infections), laxatives (for constipation), sleep aids, and benzoyl peroxide for acne.
*Microaerophilic
Requires reduced levels of oxygen to survive.
*Bacterium
Pronounced - bak-teer-ee-um
Bacterium is a tiny micro-organism that reproduces by cell division and usually has a cell wall. Bacterium can be shaped like a sphere, rod, or spiral and can be found in virtually any environment. Bacteria (Pronounced - bak-teer-ee-uh) is plural (more than one) for bacterium.
This summary does not include everything there is to know about the products mentioned above. Side effects other than those listed above may occur. Prescription formulas of benzoyl peroxide may be prescribed by a doctor. If you have questions or concerns, or want more information, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist.