What Do Different Concentrations of Benzoyl Peroxide Products Do?

Found in cleansers, lotions, and creams, benzoyl peroxide is one of the most common acne treatments available. By killing Propionibacteria acnes (P. acnes), the bacteria responsible for breakouts, benzoyl peroxide also helps unclog pores and reduce inflammation of the skin. Available in different concentrations, benzoyl peroxide products are sold over-the-counter as well as in prescription strengths from 2.5% to 10%.

How Benzoyl Peroxide Works

Benzoyl peroxide works by removing unwanted dead skin cells to exfoliate the skin and helping to loosen impacted pores, thereby disinfecting and killing acne-causing bacteria. Used as both a treatment and a preventative measure, dermatologists recommend using benzoyl peroxide products on affected areas and any other areas where you commonly experience breakouts.

The FDA allows the use of benzoyl peroxide in non-prescription acne medications at concentrations anywhere from 2.0% to 10%. Different products use the active ingredient at different levels. For example, Proactiv contains 2.5% benzoyl peroxide, which gentlet but effective when used regularly.

Benzoyl peroxide is commonly available in these concentrations: 2.5%, 4%, 8%, and 10%. At a 2.5% concentration, benzoyl peroxide can effectively treat mild forms of acne. At a 4% concentration, benzoyl peroxide is optimal for oily skin. At this concentration, benzoyl peroxide can also have a drying effect*. In concentrations of 8 to 10%, benzoyl peroxide becomes a very active remedy, with increased possibility of adverse reactions.

*Contact your dermatologist to determine whether such a high concentration is right for you, or if you feel extreme discomfort, hard itching, or redness

How to Use Benzoyl Peroxide Products

It is advisable that you start at lower concentrations to let your skin adapt to the acne treatment. Consider finding products with 2.5% concentrations of benzoyl peroxide to start Most acne treatments have a 2.5% concentration, which is safe and effective for most users. Some products, like Proactiv, are formulated at 2.5%, but the active ingredient is 4%. When your skin becomes comfortable with that level, you can increase to a product with a 5% concentration. If you are unsatisfied with the results, you can eventually move on to a 10% concentration. There is no need for more than 10%, as this is enough to cause sufficient changes in even severe facial acne.

If you have body acne, try using a benzoyl peroxide body wash. Be sure to clean and dry your skin before applying any treatment solution, once or twice a day. Use it over the whole area that is affected to prevent flare-ups in all areas.

Benzoyl peroxide is a bleaching agent that can leave stains on your clothing, towels, and sheets. Be sure the benzoyl peroxide is completely dry on your skin, before it comes into contact with anything else. It may also bleach your hair, so keep your hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes from making contact with the acne product.

Side Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide Products

Although benzoyl peroxide is very effective, it does have known side effects including redness, flaking, dryness, and itching or burning of the skin. These side effects are usually mild and occur more frequently upon initial use. Benzoyl peroxide products with a higher concentration can cause more severe side effects and should not be used until your skin is used to a lower concentration. If you do experience any extreme side effects, consult a dermatologist immediately.