Ahh benzoyl peroxide... If you've struggled with acne, you've probably heard of this guy before. Benzoyl peroxide is an ingredient that has the longest track record in acne management and continues to be the #1 recommended compound for the treatment of acne.
The reason why benzoyl peroxide works so well against acne is that one, it is antibacterial, specifically toward the acne-causing bacteria called p. acnes. These bacteria lie in our pores and cause acne. There are other medications that target bacteria on our skin, however, the one benefit of using benzoyl peroxide is that it targets the bacteria in multiple different areas which make it extremely hard for the bacteria to develop resistance to it.
Not only does benzoyl peroxide kill these pesky bacteria off our skin, it is also anti-inflammatory. This is because it aids in eliminating the reactive oxygen species (ROS) within our skin cells, which are the root causes of redness and inflammation.
Benzoyl peroxide is also keratolytic, meaning it can help shed/peel away the top layers of our skin. However, it is so keratolytic, that it can cause a lot of dryness, peeling, and irritation to someone who might be using it consistently for the first time. This is why it is crucial that you start out slowly when you start using benzoyl peroxide and then work your way up.
I personally use this acne.org 2.5% benzoyl peroxide: https://store.acne.org/treatment/3-4-oz-treatment-2-5-benzoyl-peroxide
I've also heard great things about 10% Zapzyt: https://www.amazon.com/Zapzyt-Acne-Treatment-Gel-Pack/dp/B00E4MP3WA/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=zapzyt&qid=1552692350&s=gateway&sr=8-1
***It's important to note here that the higher concentration does not mean better results! Research has found that 2.5% is JUST as effective as 10% in eliminating the acne-causing bacteria. 10% usually causes more irritation but it varies from person to person.
If you're struggling with acne, I would say give benzoyl peroxide a chance! You are most likely going to experience some irritation in the beginning but as long as you start out slow and work your way up, using benzoyl peroxide will definitely be a huge aid in controlling acne.
The reason why benzoyl peroxide works so well against acne is that one, it is antibacterial, specifically toward the acne-causing bacteria called p. acnes. These bacteria lie in our pores and cause acne. There are other medications that target bacteria on our skin, however, the one benefit of using benzoyl peroxide is that it targets the bacteria in multiple different areas which make it extremely hard for the bacteria to develop resistance to it.
Not only does benzoyl peroxide kill these pesky bacteria off our skin, it is also anti-inflammatory. This is because it aids in eliminating the reactive oxygen species (ROS) within our skin cells, which are the root causes of redness and inflammation.
Benzoyl peroxide is also keratolytic, meaning it can help shed/peel away the top layers of our skin. However, it is so keratolytic, that it can cause a lot of dryness, peeling, and irritation to someone who might be using it consistently for the first time. This is why it is crucial that you start out slowly when you start using benzoyl peroxide and then work your way up.
I personally use this acne.org 2.5% benzoyl peroxide: https://store.acne.org/treatment/3-4-oz-treatment-2-5-benzoyl-peroxide
I've also heard great things about 10% Zapzyt: https://www.amazon.com/Zapzyt-Acne-Treatment-Gel-Pack/dp/B00E4MP3WA/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=zapzyt&qid=1552692350&s=gateway&sr=8-1
***It's important to note here that the higher concentration does not mean better results! Research has found that 2.5% is JUST as effective as 10% in eliminating the acne-causing bacteria. 10% usually causes more irritation but it varies from person to person.
If you're struggling with acne, I would say give benzoyl peroxide a chance! You are most likely going to experience some irritation in the beginning but as long as you start out slow and work your way up, using benzoyl peroxide will definitely be a huge aid in controlling acne.
LOL, I have the same problem. Thanks for this kind of information, it is very useful! I have tried out for two types of acne treatment, but it will happen again which makes me give up. It is useful, and I will take a look at it. I have a wrong idea on the concentration, I always think a higher concentration will have better results. Now, I understand the concentration of the acne treatment, thanks a lot. :)
ReplyDeleteI'm back! I love learning new things about what I can do to improve my skincare regime and you're very detailed about everything you share. Luckily my acne isn't as bad as it used to be but its great to know that benzoyl peroxide specifically targets acne bacteria. If my acne ever acts up again, I'll know that benzoyl peroxide is something that I can try out to help with my acne. Not sure if you'll do this later on, but do you recommend any products to minimize pores?
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah! I'm glad you're enjoying the blog posts :) and as for the minimizing pores, I would recommend AHA's which I've talked about before, and also BHA's (Beta Hydroxy Acids) like salicylic acid, which I will talk about in the future. There are also a group of compounds called retinoids (adapalene and tretinoin are the most well known), which can help as well. I'll be making posts about BHA's and retinoids in the future so stay tuned!
DeleteThat's pretty awesome! I always knew this product was good to clean cuts but never thought of it as a way to help clear acne. I actually have benzoyl peroxide spray and it's interesting to know that I could use it for other than cuts and scrapes.
ReplyDeleteJeanne, I think you might be mistaking HYDROGEN peroxide with BENZOYL peroxide. They are two very different things! Please read your labels before you use any product on your face.
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