Acne is a hormonal problem quit common now a days. Every person once in their life has to face it. It is a common problem in both men and women. In fact men have more severe kind of acne then women but women are more conscious about their condition. They tend to go for more treatments then men.

Acne is curable disease and thousands of treatments are available to treat this condition. Severe acne needs a dermatologists advice but milder cases can be treated at home by using home remedies and over the counter products. But it is necessary to discuss all possible side effects and other issue with your health advisor before stating any over the counter product.

Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most famous active ingredients in over the counter products. It works wonder on mild acne. Moderate acne can be cured as well by using this medicine. Result varies from person to person. Benzoyl peroxide is used in different over the counter products as active ingredient with different concentrations, from 2.5% to 10% solution.

How does benzoyl peroxide work?

Benzoyl peroxide is an anti bacterial agent. It kills bacteria which cause acne. It reduces yeast on our skin as well. Actually P. bacteria are responsible for acne breakouts and they cannot live in oxygen rich environment. Benzoyl peroxide contains oxygen, enter into the pores and kills bacteria. In such a way, acne breakout reduces. Another quality of this miracle is that it reduces the chance of blockage of pores by clearing the pores of cellular debris.

How to use it?

It is available in gel, cream, lotion and in facial masks form. For purpose of treating acne it is advised that use it in gel or cream form with a concentration of less then 10%. First use it in small amounts then gradually increase its amount. 2.5% concentration is considered ideal for starting a treatment. If you use in higher concentrations then it could irritate your skin. Use in lower concentration first and then observe your skin condition, if it does not work then gradually increase its concentration. Use it once or twice daily depending on your skin condition. More then 10% concentration is of benzoyl peroxide is used under prescription.

Precautions:

Benzoyl peroxide is bleaching agent so take good care during application. It may bleach your hair, towel and clothing. If you are applying on body then wear some old clothes to avoid any contact with your new clothes.

While using benzoyl peroxide avoid over exposure to sun.

Side effects:

Dryness and flaking are most common side effects of benzoyl peroxide but they are very mild. To reduce dryness you can use oil free moisturizer. In very rare cases serious redness, burning, itching, peeling, swelling or rash are noticed. If any of these side effects occur contact your dermatologists and discontinue the use immediately.

Conclusion:

Benzoyl peroxide is miracle treatment for mild to moderate acne. Before starting any treatment it is necessary to consult a dermatologist to discuss its side effects. Lie every other treatment benzoyl peroxide take 4 to 6 weeks to show effectiveness so be patient while using it. If you notice no improvement even after a month then consults your dermatologist.