Pharmacy Clinic
Benzoyl peroxide

•        Is one of the most effective agents against acne vulgaris, causing mild desquamation
and comedolysis in its usual formulations by increasing epithelial cell turnover and unblocking
pores.
to 75 percent reduction in inflammatory lesions can be seen after 8 weeks to 12 weeks of
treatment; efficacy can be enhanced by combining with minimally reduces sebum production,
it significantly lowers FFA concentrations, so it can improve both inflamed and non-inflamed
lesions. A 50 percent

•        Benzoyl peroxide is available over the counter and by prescription in a variety of
dosage forms and concentrations (2.5 percent to 10 percent) and should be applied sparingly
once or twice daily to affected areas.
•        Patients may experience transient warmth or stinging, significant drying or skin
irritation from benzoyl peroxide.
•        Decreasing the frequency of application may alleviate excessive skin dryness or peeling.
•        The liquid and cream formulations are less irritating and may be preferred in patients
with dry skin,
•        The gel formulation is more irritating but also more effective for patients with oily skin.
•        A patient with dry skin may choose either a lower strength or less drying formulation of
benzoyl peroxide.
•        Allergic contact dermatitis characterized by inflammation and pruritus can result from
the use of benzoyl peroxide, but the condition usually will resolve after discontinuation of
therapy.
•        Patients should be warned that it might discolor certain types of fabric and bleach hair
upon contact.
Acne treatment