All the best acne treatments work through multiple actions and benzoyl peroxide is no exception. It works by releasing oxygen in the pore inhibiting the growth of acne causing bacteria and reducing inflammation. It also flushes out the pores by creating a mild peeling effect, clearing away accumulated dead skin cells, bacteria and oil in the pore. In practical terms, this means it reduces the appearance of angry red spots and prevents new ones from appearing by helping keep the pores clear.
Benzoyl peroxide can be drying. During the initial weeks, you may experience some mild dryness. To counter this, make sure to use both a moisture toner, a hydrator and a moisturizer. A healthy barrier is super important to clearing your skin. We like:
Do not use benzoyl peroxide on your neck or eye area as it can over-dry and irritate the delicate tissue in these areas. Also do not apply a moisturizer over BPO as it can cause BPO to migrate into the eye area.
Do not use eye cream or moisturizer around the eyes as the benzoyl peroxide will migrate through the cream and cause irritation and possible swelling. Pillow cases should be changed regularly to avoid eye issues as well.
Traditional moisturizers cannot be used under or over benzoyl peroxide. They interfere with efficacy and cause the Acne Med to travel into the eye area. It is important to use a hydrator under acne med to keep the skin barrier from getting irritated. This is our favorite hydrating gel to use under Acne Med:
BPO flushes the contents of the pores to the surface. It's important to use an exfolating serum starting every other day in the AM when starting BPO building to both AM and PM use. This is because as the pores are flushed, the acne bacteria, oil and dead skin cells in the pores will expel to the surface and the acne that has now surfaced need to be chemically exfoliated to clear. We like to start cleints on Mandelic serum.
Do not wear benzoyl peroxide when you expect to perspire. If you plan to exercise, engage in physical labor, or be outside in the sun, be sure to fully remove your Acne Med to avoid irritation.
Benzoyl peroxide will bleach fabric, so we suggest using white towels and linens when using your Acne Med. We also recommend wearing an old t-shirt to bed if you are using Acne Med on the body. Additionally, make sure to thoroughly wash your hands following each application to avoid bleaching towels.
Allergies to benzoyl peroxide are rare but do occur occasionally. Dry skin does not constitute an allergic reaction. An allergy is characterized by itching, swelling, or burning associated with a rash similar to a mild case of poison ivy dermatitis. If you are experiencing unusual irritation or an allergic reaction occurs, stop using Acne Med and contact us immediately.
If you choose to skip a day or two or only spot treat, this break in your treatment gives a chance for acne to form. You will NOT achieve clear skin if you skip your home care treatment plan or you spot treat.
While spot treating can be effective for those who are mildly blemish-prone, those with inflamed acne must use benzoyl peroxide serum over the entire acne-prone area, every day. This is what will help prevent future breakouts.
Benzoyl peroxide increases sun sensitivity, so it is vital to add sun protection into your daily routine.
520 Hillside Ave. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
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