What Is Benzoyl Good for?

People faced with pimples have many options, such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl or benzoyl peroxide is one option that treats acne lesions by destroying blemish-causing bacteria. A chemical found in everything from face washes to face creams, benzoyl peroxide is good for treating mild to moderate cases of acne.

How Does Benzoyl Help Acne?

• According to Drugs.com, benzoyl peroxide works in two ways. The medication acts as an antibacterial agent, reducing the amount of bacteria on the skin. Benzoyl also encourages the skin to dry and peel. This action reduces the size of pimples and acne lesions.

How to Use Benzoyl Peroxide

• Benzoyl peroxide is an over-the-counter medication, as well as a prescription medication. Since benzoyl peroxide is a type of medication, this topical skin medication must be used as directed. The U.S. National Library of Medicine suggests consumers test their reaction to benzoyl by first using the medication once a day. Benzoyl peroxide should also only be applied to problem areas. Areas such as the eyes, nose and mouth should be avoided. Benzoyl users can expect to see results within six weeks.

Side Effects of Benzoyl

• According to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, common side effects of benzoyl include skin dryness, irritation, tingling and stinging. If severe redness or irritation occurs, users should seek medical attention. Benzoyl may bleach items, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Therefore, the chemical should be kept away from hair and clothing. Drugs.com advises benzoyl peroxide users to either avoid the sun or apply sunscreen.

Considerations

• Benzoyl peroxide is the active ingredient in Zoderm, 10 Benzagel, Clearskin and PanOxyl Aqua Gel. Benzoyl concentrations typically range from 2.5 to 10 percent. As the concentration increases, the chances of side effects increase as well, according to MayoClinic.com. Starting with low levels of benzoyl peroxide lessens potential side effects, allowing the skin to adjust benzoyl treatments.

Alternatives to Benzoyl Peroxide

• One alternative to benzoyl peroxide is salicylic acid. According to MayoClinic.com, salicylic acid works to prevent clogged pores by slowing cell shedding. The ingredient sulfur removes dead skin cells from clogged pores. Some find that benzoyl peroxide is more effective when combined with other acne treatments, according to MayoClinic.com. Consumers, for example, can use one product at night and another product in the morning. Some medications such as Face Up and Sulfoxyl combine sulfur with benzoyl peroxide.