Recent research shows that there are more benefits available from using benzoyl
peroxide than we originally believed. Benzoyl peroxide, an agent which is
commonly used in a wide variety of acne treatment products, works by actually
killing the bacteria that causes acne. Due to this fact, benzoyl peroxide is a
popular treatment for mild to moderate acne in both teens and adults. The one
problem related to benzoyl peroxide; however has been that it does not contain
any anti-inflammatory properties. What this means to users is that while benzoyl
peroxide is a great topical agent for the purpose of killing the p. acnes
bacteria, it won’t clear up any inflammation or infection that have occurred as
a result of the acne.
Research has indicated; however that benzoyl peroxide can boost the
effectiveness of other medications when they are used in conjunction with
benzoyl peroxide. This means that while benzoyl peroxide itself won’t fight acne
related infection, it will make other medications more effective and can round
out a complete skin care regimen. Another added benefit of benzoyl peroxide is
that while patients generally tend to develop an immunity to acne antibiotics,
benzoyl peroxide seems to reduce that likelihood.
Users should be aware that there are some side effects related to the use of
benzoyl peroxide. The most commonly reported side effects include blistering of
the skin, possible crusting of the skin as well as a rash or severe burning or
redness of the skin in some patients. Due to the fact that benzoyl peroxide can
work as a bleach; it may also cause darkening or lightening of the skin as well
as discoloration in hair and fabrics.
At the current time it appears that the only long term side effect of benzoyl
peroxide is an increased sensitivity to sunlight which would require the patient
to use sunscreen; an advisable action without the use of benzoyl peroxide over a
long period of time. It should be noted that some patients, a small percentage,
are allergic to benzoyl peroxide and exhibit symptoms of skin allergy when using
the product. These patients may desire to either discontinue use of the product
all together or use the product on a reduce dosage.
It should also be noted that benzoyl peroxide should be kept away from all fabrics. It will stain clothes, pillow cases, and bed sheets very easily.
