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Benzoyl peroxide review
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Benzoyl peroxide is a member of the class of organic compounds known as peroxides that is used anti-acne preparations. Benzoyl peroxide preparations come in concentrations of 2.5% and stronger versions can contain 5% to 10% of benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide clears acne by increasing skin shedding in the face – clearing up pores and renewing skin tissue. This drug also has an antibacterial effect which is improved by the peeling action which also lowers the overall bacterial levels in the face.
Benzoyl peroxide also finds itself used in making hair dyeing products, creating teeth whitening preparation, and in the preparation of making flour.
Benzoyl peroxide is a very widely used anti-acne medication available in a wide variety of products rangin from over-the-counter products such as soaps, cleansings agents such as Clearasil and ProActiv, lotions, and stronger products like specially-prepared benzoyl peroxide creams. It is among the first proven effective treatments for acne and is both one of the most successful and popular treatments available on the market.
It can be used on its own or as a part of a comprehensive acne treatment involving other drugs such as antibiotics and other anti-acne preparations containing, salicylic acid or retinoic acid.
Since so many different benzoyl peroxide products on the market are available, usage will vary – depending on both the product used, the severity of your acne problem, and the dermatologist’s specific order.
If you are using facial foams or bar soaps containing the medication, you can use this in place of your regular facial soap in cleaning your face. Apply it on your face after wetting the skin with warm water, working up lather for 10 to 20 seconds before rinsing.
If using a facial cream, lotion or other similar products, wash your face first with soap and warm water and pat dry before applying benzoyl peroxide on the affected area.
Some dermatologists may ask you to use a moisturizer after applying the benzoyl peroxide treatment to counteract possible dryness of the skin.
Use the product regularly, and for best results use it the same time each day. Your dermatologist will determine how long you need to continue the treatment, but improvements can be seen after 3 weeks of use, and may take up to a maximum of 8-12 weeks of use to achieve optimal effect. The dermatologist may prescribe the products for you continuously to maintain the benefits.
The most common side effects experienced during benzoyl peroxide treatment are dryness of the skin and increasing skin shedding in the treated area. Moisturizers may help deal with this effect, and can be reduced by following all your dermatologist’s instructions and directions included in your medication.
Rarely, you may experience redness, itching and burning sensation, excessive flaking and peeling, or swellings and rashes. When any of these occur discontinue use immediately and consult with your dermatologist.
Be careful when using benzoyl peroxide products in areas where hair growth is present, as higher concentrations of the chemical may cause bleaching of the hair or even temporary hair loss. This bleaching effect can be quite potent; textile and clothing may also experience color loss when coming in contact with benzoyl peroxide products and even secondary contact (i.e. using a towel previously coming in contact with the product) can cause further bleaching.
Benzoyl peroxide has the following structural formula:
• Molecular formula of benzoyl peroxide is C14H10O4
• Molecular weight is 242.23 g/mol
• Benzoyl peroxide available : 5mg tablets, 10mg tablets, 50mg tablets and 100mg tablets
Brand name(s): Benzac
Review published on: 14 June 2009
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