What Is Benzoyl Peroxide?

Possible Side Effects

It seems that benzoyl peroxide has several possible side effects. Patients may notice many skin changes, such as flaking, peeling, dryness, and redness. These side effects may be the most severe in the first few weeks of using a product with benzoyl peroxide. Unfortunately, this ingredient appears to be more drying than other acne medications. It seems as if the higher the percentage, the more dryness patients may experience. Rough skin patches may be another side effect.

Some patients may deal with immediate side effects, such as itching, redness, and burning. However, these effects should go away. Severe or persistent issues may merit a doctor's call. An allergic reaction to this ingredient seems to be possible. Thankfully, it may be rare. Of course, patients may need emergency help for signs like tongue swelling, hives, and breathing problems.

Get information on the precautions for this medication next.

Precautions

As mentioned, this medication may trigger significant skin problems. Thus, individuals may wish to think about starting this medication slowly. This may help them lower the severity of side effects. It seems that the recommendation is starting with using products every other day for up to two weeks. Patients appear to benefit from applying moisturizer more often as well. Some may want to apply it before this medication. This is often considered buffering. After a few weeks, patients may be able to increase their use of benzoyl peroxide. However, should side effects develop, this timeline may change.

This medication appears to trigger sun sensitivity. Thus, patients may want to wear sunscreen every day and reapply as necessary. In addition, it may stain clothing. This may mean putting on clothes before application and waiting extra time to ensure that the medication has dried fully. Patients should wash their hands with soap and water after applying this medication as well.

Continue reading to reveal the potential medication interactions next.