Using Benzoyl Peroxide Products – Some Tips

September 30, 2009 · Filed Under Acne 

There are lots of preparations to help you become free from acne, benzoyl peroxide acne preparations are one of the most prevalent. OTC products containing benzoyl peroxide include the the Acne Free range, ProActive and Clearasil. Even though benzoyl peroxide does have some side effects, they are normally slight and it is an effective therapy for the acne of most people. In this benzoyl peroxide examination let’s consider some of the treatments that are available and find out how successful they are.

How Do Benzoyl Peroxide Preparations Work?

Benzoyl peroxide is a preparation that releases oxygen into the pores of the skin. The bacteria that causes acne, Propionibacteria acnes, can’t survive in an oxygen rich environment so this product prevents it from increasing and causing further outbreaks. The acne causing bacteria thrives in pores blocked by dirt, dust and dead skin cells which often results from of rising levels of hormones which produce far too much sebum during the teenage years. Benzoyl peroxide can prevent further flareups and breakouts and is best used without a break, even when the skin becomes clear, instead of as a pimple cure.

What Benzoyl Peroxide Treatments are Available?

Benzoyl peroxide is recommended if you have acne that is mild to moderate and can be bought OTC as a 2.5% gel as well as in products with up to 10% of the active ingredient. It is recommended to start with the 2.5 gel or cream, which can be extremely successful, and only increase the concentration as your skin has become used to it and you feel it is necessary to improve the effects. You should gently wash your face no more than twice every day with a benzoyl peroxide wash then apply the gel or cream. Ensure that you apply it all over the are that is affected to stop flareups in otherwise clear skin. For those with acne on the body, benzoyl peroxide body washes can be very effective.

Some Precautions To Take When Using Benzoyl Peroxide Treatments

Be careful when using an acne free benzoyl peroxide product as it is able to bleach your hair and clothes and even your pillow case when you lay down to sleep! After using a body wash that contains benzoyl peroxide ensure you dry yourself thoroughly before you get dressed or you will more than likely bleach your clothes!

Side Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide Products

In the treatment of acne, benzoyl peroxide preparations are often very effective but you should be familiar with any side effects that can be caused by this product. These include irritation and burning of the skin, dryness, flaking and redness. Although these are generally mild if you experience a severe reaction stop using the product straight away and consult a dermatologist who may be able to prescribe an alternative treatment. You should never choose a preparation with high levels of benzoyl peroxide at the outset in case your skin reacts badly, so purchase a benzoyl peroxide 2.5 gel at first and use this until your skin becomes accustomed to it.

Do Benzoyl Peroxide Products Have Any Long-Term Side effects?

Benzoyl peroxide acne products need to be applied for over the course of months or years to be really effective and to prevent recurrence of the problem. It has been known for a long time that benzoyl peroxide releases free radicals in the skin and it might be thought that this might result in skin cancer later on. However studies have not shown that this is the case up to this date. Nevertheless if you are a nursing or pregnant woman, be aware that there are no studies to show that using benzoyl peroxide is safe for your baby so we recommend that you do not use it at this time.

Conclusion

Benzoyl Peroxide treatments are useful and usually well tolerated by most people as a remedy for acne. These preparations are normally safe to use for a long time.

For more information please visit us at Benzoyl Peroxide Products for Acne

 

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