Benzoyl Peroxide

What it is: Benzoyl peroxide is available in prescription and over-the-counter medications, in cream, gel, and wash form. It is an anti-bacterial agent.

What it does: Benzoyl peroxide kills P. Acnes, the bacteria that causes acne. Also, there is a mild drying and peeling effect which is thought to help prevent breakouts.

Things to be aware of while using it:
(see full story for details)		 About 3% of people are allergic to benzoyl peroxide and experience an inflammation of the skin.

Benzoyl peroxide may bleach hair or fabric.

Return to over-the-counter medications

References

"Benzoyl Peroxide (Topical)." MedlinePlus. 2004. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. 2000 link.

Berger, Timothy G., William D. James, and Richard B. Odom. Andrew's Diseases of the Skin. Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders Company, 2000.

Drobil, M., and H. Lindemayr. "Contact Sensitization to Benzoyl Peroxide." Contact Dermatitis 7.3 (1981): 137-40. Abstract, PubMed. 12 Apr. 2002 link.

Ives, T.J. "Benzoyl Peroxide." American Pharmacy 32.8 (1992): 33-8.

Weinberg, J.M. "The Utility of Benzoyl Peroxide in Hydrophase Base (Brevoxyl) in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris." Journal of Drugs in Dermatology 5.4 (2006): 344-9. Abstract. PubMed. 5 Sept. 2006 link.