Acne Focus: What is Benzoyl Peroxide & What Does it Do? 

What is benzoyl peroxide? It’s a commonly searched question online for anyone looking for ways to address persistent acne – mainly because it’s one of the most effective at dealing with inflammatory acne. If you’d like to know more about this hero compound, you’re in the right place, as over the next few minutes, we’ll be telling you all about it. 

In this brief blog we’ll be touching upon how it works and what makes it so effective at dealing with pimples. Without further ado, let’s dive straight in!

What is Benzoyl Peroxide & Why Is It So Effective Against Acne?

Spend just a little time researching acne treatment and you can’t help but come across benzoyl peroxide products. So, what is benzoyl peroxide? It’s a chemical compound that’s able to eliminate bacteria while at the same time, reducing inflammation. 

It’s also a keratolytic (meaning it’s able to gently break down dead skin cells) agent that comes in a variety of different strengths. They usually range between 4% and 10%, with the correct option depending very much on the severity of your acne and your skin type. 

How Does Benzoyl Peroxide Stop Zits?

One of benzoyl peroxide’s main functions is to kill acne bacteria and introduce oxygen into your pores. It creates conditions in which bacteria simply can’t survive and thanks to its ability to break down dead skin, it’s also great at unblocking hair follicles (another name for pores). 

Acne is most often accompanied by inflammation. It’s what makes those breakouts so darn uncomfortable! Thankfully, benzoyl peroxide can also provide relief by soothing the swelling and redness that’s so familiar to anyone with chronic breakouts. 

Who Should Use Benzoyl Peroxide Products?

Not all acne is the same. There are several different types and while benzoyl peroxide is a great choice for acne issues for many, it’s not right for everyone. So, who should use it then? You should consider it if you have any of the following:

• Moderate to Severe Acne: It’s particularly effective for deeper acne (pustules and pimples).
• Body Acne: If you have back, chest or shoulder acne, as the skin is thicker in these areas and needs the extra power that BP offers (compared to other options).
• Maintenance: Once your moderate to severe acne is under control, benzoyl peroxide can be used as a preventative treatment to keep breakouts at bay. 

If your acne is mild, then you might be better served using a salicylic acid product that’s designed to deal with surface-level zits and unclog pores. 

What Is Benzoyl Peroxide? It’s Your Key to Healthier, Blemish-Free Skin

Essentially, benzoyl peroxide is a proven, science-backed solution for dealing with acne. By targeting bacteria, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation, it addresses the root causes of breakouts effectively, and if you have moderate to severe acne, it’s likely the right option for you. 

While it might not be without potential side effects (such as dryness/soreness), careful and consistent use can help you achieve clearer, healthier skin. Just remember to think about the type of skin you have, as well as the severity of your acne.