apollo
logo
0Login

BENZOYL PEROXIDE

About BENZOYL PEROXIDE

BENZOYL PEROXIDE belongs to the class of medication called ‘antibacterial agents' primarily used to treat bacterial skin infections like acne (pimples). Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells.

BENZOYL PEROXIDE contains ‘Benzoyl Peroxide’ that kills bacteria, reduces inflammation and unplugs blocked pores. BENZOYL PEROXIDE decomposes to release oxygen when applied to the skin. This oxygen acts as a bactericidal agent and kills Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria that causes acne. BENZOYL PEROXIDE increases the turnover rate of epithelial cells (cells that line the surface of the skin), eventually helps in peeling the skin and treating comedones (skin-coloured, small bumps due to acne). BENZOYL PEROXIDE also has a mild drying effect that allows excess oils and dirt to be washed away from the skin.

BENZOYL PEROXIDE is for external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, eyelids, lips, mouth and nose. If the medicine comes in contact with any of these areas, rinse with water immediately. Do not use BENZOYL PEROXIDE on sunburned, windburned, dry, or irritated skin. Common side effects of BENZOYL PEROXIDE include dry skin, erythema (skin redness), burning sensation, itching, skin irritation, swelling, blistering, crusting, and skin rash.

Let your doctor know if you use any other medicines, including vitamins, before starting BENZOYL PEROXIDE. Your skin may become more sensitive in the sunlight, hence always use sunscreen and protective clothing before you step outdoors. Care should be taken while applying BENZOYL PEROXIDE on sensitive areas, such as the neck. Avoid BENZOYL PEROXIDE contact with hair or fabrics since it has bleaching properties. Please limit the use of products that contain large amounts of alcohol (astringents, shaving creams or after-shave lotions), hair removal products, and products containing lime or spices while using BENZOYL PEROXIDE. It is essential to let your doctor know if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or a breastfeeding mother.

Uses of BENZOYL PEROXIDE

Acne (pimples).

Medicinal Benefits

BENZOYL PEROXIDE contains ‘Benzoyl Peroxide’, an antibacterial medication used to treat bacterial skin infections like acne (pimples). It is an organic compound with an irritant, keratolytic (remove warts, calluses), comedolytic (inhibits the formation of blemishes), and anti-inflammatory activity. BENZOYL PEROXIDE kills bacteria, reduces inflammation and unplugs blocked pores. It decomposes to release oxygen when applied to the skin. This oxygen acts as a bactericidal agent and kills Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria that causes acne. BENZOYL PEROXIDE increases the turnover rate of epithelial cells (cells that line the surface of the skin), eventually helps in peeling the skin and treating comedones (skin-coloured, small bumps due to acne). BENZOYL PEROXIDE also has a mild drying effect that allows excess oils and dirt to be washed away from the skin.

Directions for Use

Cream/Gel/Lotion/Ointment: Take the advised amount with clean and dry hands. Gently massage the medicine onto the affected areas of the skin with your fingers. Wash your hands before and after applying. Do not put a dressing or bandage on the affected areas. Foam/Creamy wash: Apply a generous amount to the affected areas with your hands and massage it with your fingers. Rinse off with clean water. Cleansing bar/Soap: Work the soap into a nice lather and apply it to the affected areas with your hands. Gently massage in circular motions and rinse off with clean water. Shave cream: Wet the area to be shaved. Apply a small amount of the shaving cream, rub it gently and shave. Rinse and pat dry. Do not use after-shave lotion.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight

Side Effects of BENZOYL PEROXIDE

  • Dry skin
  • Erythema (skin redness)
  • Burning sensation
  • Itching
  • Skin irritation
  • Swelling
  • Blistering
  • Crusting
  • Skin rash

Patients Concern

Disease/Condition Glossary

Acne vulgaris (acne) is a skin condition caused when the hair follicles are plugged with oil and dead skin cells. Whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, cysts, and nodules are all types of acne. It commonly occurs in teenagers though all age groups are affected. Symptoms include blackheads, pus-filled pimples, and large/red bumps. Break-outs can happen on the face, neck, back, shoulders, and chest. The risk factors for acne are hormonal changes, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), poor sleep, stress, smoking, dermatological and cosmetic products with high oil content, and genetic conditions. Treatment involves antibiotics, retinoids, and topical benzoyl peroxide with diet and lifestyle changes.

FAQs

BENZOYL PEROXIDE contains ‘Benzoyl Peroxide’, an antibacterial medication used to treat bacterial skin infections like acne (pimples). It kills bacteria, reduces inflammation and unplugs blocked pores. BENZOYL PEROXIDE decomposes to release oxygen when applied to the skin. This oxygen acts as a bactericidal agent and kills Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria that causes acne.

Your doctor may advise the initial dose as once daily in the evening. The dose may be increased to twice or thrice daily in the morning and evening.

BENZOYL PEROXIDE usually improves your skin condition in 4-6 weeks of treatment. If you notice no improvement after a month of treatment, please reach out to your doctor.

You can leave BENZOYL PEROXIDE overnight on the skin if you are using cream/gel/lotion formulations. However, if any irritation occurs, please stop usage and consult your doctor.

It is advised to limit the use of products that contain large amounts of alcohol (astringents, shaving creams or after-shave lotions), hair removal products, and products containing lime or spices if you are using BENZOYL PEROXIDE.

BENZOYL PEROXIDE can make your skin more sensitive to the harmful effects of sunlight. Hence it is advised to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing while using BENZOYL PEROXIDE. It is recommended to avoid tanning booths and sunlamps.

Available Medicines for

BENZOYL PEROXIDE

VIEW MORE PRODUCTS