26/09/2024
WHAT IS BENZOYL PEROXIDE
Benzoyl peroxide is a keratolytic meaning “keratin-dissolving” and works by loosening dead cells stuck in the follicles. By doing so, it unclogs pores and prevents new breakouts. This makes benzoyl peroxide particularly effective against inflammatory acne, characterized by red, swollen pimples. It is also antibacterial because it penetrates the skin and releases oxygen in the follicles. Because acne bacteria are anaerobic, they cannot survive in the presence of oxygen..
Benzoyl peroxide is an excellent treatment medication that works well for most forms of acne and occasional pimples. Estheticians use and sell benzoyl-peroxide as a corrective skincare because it is highly effective and most popular. And just like any other skincare ingredient, it needs to be used correctly to get the best result and to avoid irritation.
Benzoyl peroxide is available in masks, creams, gel and lotions. Dermatologists mostly prescribe lotions and gels. You will find benzoyl peroxide in 3 strengths:
2.5 per cent for mild acne and thin, sensitive skin
5 percent for moderate acne
10 percent for severe acne
Additional strengths are available based on prescriptions.
Why Choose Benzoyl Peroxide for Acne?
It is because benzoyl peroxide basically works. It targets the root cause of acne. Many people find it more effective than any other over-the-counter treatment, although, some people may be allergic to it. It is also more easily accessible than any other acne treatment product.
Choosing the Right Benzoyl Peroxide Product
Just like I mentioned earlier, benzoyl peroxide is available in different strengths (from 2.5 to 10%). A lower concentration (2,5-5%) is recommended for beginners with sensitive skin as it minimizes the risk of irritation and dryness. Higher concentrations (5% to 10%) are more suitable for those with severe acne or who have built up a tolerance over time.
Formulations to Consider
Benzoyl peroxide is available in various formulations, including gels, creams, lotions, and cleansers. Gels and creams are best for targeted spot treatments, while cleansers or washes can be used as part of your daily skincare routine. If you’re dealing with widespread acne all over your body, a wash might be the most efficient option. However, for spot treatments, a gel or cream allows for precise application.
How to Incorporate Benzoyl Peroxide into Your Skincare Routine
First and most important, check that you are not allergic to benzoyl peroxide. If you are allergic, do not use it. Another thing to consider is to check if you have overused benzoyl peroxide in the past that resulted in peeling and dryness of your skin, which could be assumed to be an allergy. If you are in doubt, do not use benzoyl peroxide.
After washing your face with a gentle cleanser that does not contain any exfoliating acids, apply benzoyl peroxide thinly all over your face (except the eyes) to keep follicles flushed of debris and to prevent new acne lesions from developing.
Apply benzoyl peroxide at bedtime after cleansing and toning. Apply several dots across your face and gently massage until the product is well absorbed.
After applying it across your face, apply small dots to individual acne lesions as needed. Be sure the product is well absorbed before bedtime.
Be careful though, as benzoyl peroxide is a natural bleach and will bleach your hair or fabric if overapplied.
Finally, follow up with a moisturizer suitable for your skin type to lock in hydration and protect the skin barrier.
If you experience any dryness and peeling which may be purging, start using the benzoyl peroxide product every other night, alternating on the other night with a noncomedogenic moisturizer. As your skin begins to get used to the benzoyl peroxide, you can start using the product every night.
If benzoyl peroxide causes you to itch, burn or rash, this is an allergic reaction. You need to discontinue use ASAP and consult your dermatologist.
If you are dark-skinned, benzoyl peroxide should be used with caution and it is recommended not to exceed 5% strength of benzoyl peroxide.
Frequency of Use
When introducing benzoyl peroxide to your routine, it’s essential to start slow. Begin with a once-daily application, preferably in the evening. Monitor your skin’s response closely. If you experience excessive dryness or irritation, reduce the frequency to every other day. As your skin builds tolerance, you can gradually increase usage to twice daily. Consistency is key here.
Skincare Routine using Panoxyl Washes
Use a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, mascara or anything you may have applied before using panoxyl 4% to 10% wash. Please don’t apply Panoxyl wash directly onto a film of make-up and water-resistant sunscreen. The benzoyl peroxide may begin to cause more irritation.
After you have rinsed off your makeup, then lather on the benzoyl peroxide on your face. Particularly those areas that are acne-prone. You can also apply it on your chest or back, whichever body part you have acne.
Leave the benzoyl peroxide for approximately 2-3 minutes before rinsing off.
After rinsing, while your skin is still damp, use a moisturizer. This will help reduce any form of dryness and irritation associated with benzoyl peroxide.
If you are using benzoyl peroxide as part of your morning skincare routine, you need to apply moisturizing sunscreen that is oil-free.
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