Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid, Topical Antibiotics, Topical Retinoids and Nicotinamide are most popular topical Treatments. Out of these Benzoyl Peroxide is most commonly used to treat acne.
Benzoyl peroxide treats acne by-
1. Unclogging the closed pores- when the clogged pore is opened, the infected sebum inside flows outside on the skin. As there is no more accumulation of sebum, the acne shrinks and clears.
2. Reducing the infection causing bacteria P.acnes - by reducing the bacteria the infection is controlled. Please note that it is the infection that causes deeper damage to skin. By stopping this acne is treated at an earlier stage.
3. Reducing inflammation- by reducing inflammation Benzoyl peroxide reduces the severity of acne and the associated pain.
Formulation- Benzoyl peroxide is available in the form of cream, gel, liquid washes, soap bars, acne pads etc. It is available both - OTC and on prescription.
Benzoyl peroxide may cause excessive dryness of the skin. Benzoyl peroxide should not be used with tretinoin because it reduces effect of tretinoin. You should consult with your doctor
If you have eczema, or raw skin because of sunburn, etc. Benzoyl Peroxide may cause irritation if used on such skin.
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding. No studies have been done about absorption of benzoyl peroxide in the pregnancy or in the mother´s milk. Let your doctor decide.
If you want to use benzoyl peroxide on a child or a very old person.
If you are using other topical that may peel or irritate the skin on the same place, where you plan to use benzoyl peroxide.
If you are allergic to any dyes, preservatives, etc.
If benzoyl peroxide produces side effects such as skin warmth, blisters, excess peeling, etc., inform your doctor.
This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.
To know more about the types of products available for acne treatment click- acne treatments To find more information, articles and tips about acne , skin care, STDs, skin diseases and conditions, skin treatments, procedures, skin care products, etc visit the comprehensive website on skin care

