A Warning About Benzoyl Peroxide

If you didn't know this already, I'll be the one to break your heart: there is no cure for acne. Yes, there are treatments of all kinds available, and for those of us with persistent, stubborn acne, we have tried almost everything out there. Most acne treatments out there, particularly those available OTC, use one of two alternative medications that are meant to help fight acne and its effects (swelling, redness, etc.): salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid is closely related to aspirin and is used to slough off dead skin cells for exfoliation purposes while also treating inflammation on the face. In higher doses, it can also be used to treat calluses and warts, among other skin troubles.

Benzoyl peroxide has been used in the treatment of acne since the 1920's. It can be very effective in the treatment of particularly stubborn acne, which is why it is the main active ingredient in the cleanser portion of the popular treatment system ProActiv Solution.

But what you need to understand about benzoyl peroxide is that many, many people (about 5%) are sensitive or intolerant of benzoyl peroxide.

Benzoyl is a very harsh chemical that is also used as a bleaching agent for dyeing hair and turning flour white. Yes, that's right. Though research has suggested that higher concentrations of benzoyl in acne-fighting products (5%-10%) are not any more effective than a low dose of 2.5%, most over the counter products as well as more specialized treatments like Proactiv contain a 5% or higher concentration. If you decide to use a product that had benzoyl in it, you need to watch your skin carefully for signs of sensitivity or allergy. This happened to me when my skin started going sickly pale, while former scar tissue and current flare-ups starting turning very, very red. Others might experience skin peeling or burning. If this happens to you, discontinue use of that product right away! Until you can find an alternative acne treatment, switch to an inexpensive over the counter gentle cleanser. Your skin should begin healing almost immediately.

If you aren't sure whether or not you have a benzoyl peroxide sensitivity, then start with a low-dose product--one with a 2.5% concentration. These can be difficult to find, but a few minutes in the drugstore's skincare aisle should help you find something. But in my personal opinion, it is probably best to stick to salicylic acid as the active acne fighter in your cleanser--1-2% concentration will do the trick. If you have an allergy to aspirin, though, it is best to stay away from that, too. Consult with your doctor or dermatologist to find the best solution for you.

Kay Mc