Benzoyl Peroxide Gel: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Benzoyl Peroxide Gel contains benzoyl peroxide, an antiseptic medicine applied to the skin. It is used to treat mild to moderate acne, and some prescription creams are used for rosacea. It works by reducing bacteria and inflammation on the skin and helping clear blocked pores. It is available in several forms, including gel, cream, lotion, and face wash.

What is Benzoyl Peroxide Gel

Benzoyl peroxide is a medicine that comes as a skin cream, gel, lotion, wash, or other forms. It is used to treat acne, and some prescription creams are used for rosacea.

Benzoyl Peroxide Gel uses

• Treats mild to moderate acne
• Treats inflammatory lesions (pimples and red bumps) caused by rosacea (prescription cream)
• Helps improve blocked pores such as blackheads and whiteheads

Benefits of Benzoyl Peroxide Gel

• Reduces the number of acne-causing bacteria on the skin
• Helps clear pores from blockages
• Does not cause bacterial resistance the way antibiotics can

How Benzoyl Peroxide Gel works

Benzoyl peroxide works by reducing inflammation and killing or preventing the growth of bacteria on the skin, which helps clear up spots and blocked pores.

Benzoyl Peroxide Gel dosage

Wash the affected skin gently and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of gel to the affected area. Start once daily; it may be increased to twice daily if tolerated or as directed. Wash your hands after applying. Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, mouth, and broken or irritated skin. Avoid abrasive or alcohol-based skin products that may increase irritation. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach hair and colored fabrics.

Available forms and strengths

• Gel
• Cream
• Lotion
• Face Wash / Cleansing Gel
• Liquid
• Soap
• Pad
• Facial Mask

Side effects of Benzoyl Peroxide Gel

Common

• Itching
• Warmth or tingling
• Skin irritation
• Swelling in the treated area
• Rash

Serious

• Dryness of the skin
• Peeling or flaking
• Redness
• Burning or stinging

Warnings and precautions

• Do not use if you are allergic or sensitive to benzoyl peroxide.
• Do not use on very sensitive skin unless advised by a healthcare professional.
• Do not apply to cuts, grazes, infected skin, or severely irritated/broken skin.
• Do not apply to the eyes, lips, mouth, or other mucous membranes.
• Avoid using it together with other topical acne medicines unless advised, as this can increase irritation and dryness.
• For external use only.
• Avoid contact with the eyes, lips, mouth, and nose.
• Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and use sunscreen.
• Avoid contact with hair and dyed fabrics because it can cause bleaching.
• Do not apply to severely irritated or damaged skin.
• Stop use and consult a doctor if severe irritation, swelling, blistering, or burning occurs.

Storage

• Store at room temperature, 15–30°C (59–86°F).
• Keep the tube tightly closed.
• Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not freeze.
• Keep out of reach of children.

When to see a doctor

• Seek medical help if severe skin irritation, burning, swelling, blistering, or severe redness develops.
• Stop using it and seek urgent medical help if you develop hives, swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat, or difficulty breathing. These may indicate a serious allergic reaction.
• Seek medical help if the product is swallowed accidentally.
• Contact a doctor or pharmacist if side effects persist or do not improve after reducing the frequency of use.
• If acne gets worse or does not improve after about 12 weeks, consult a doctor.

Alternatives

• Adapalene Gel
• Salicylic Acid Gel
• Azelaic Acid Gel