Benzoyl Peroxide for acne: Is it safe to use?
Benzoyl peroxide has been hailed as an ‘acne expert’ for a while. This is a common ingredient in the skincare industry. Primarily a bleaching agent, it is available as a prescriptive remedy and over the counter in the form of gels, spot treatments or cleansers that deeply cleanse the pores and better skin. The multiple concentrations vary from mild to extreme.
Benzoyl peroxide has been known to provide some beneficial effects for inflammatory acne through external use. It works by creating an oxygen-rich environment in which the anaerobic (oxygen-free environment essential for bacterial growth) acne-causing bacteria, P. acnes, perish. Besides inflammatory acne, benzoyl peroxide has been found to work on pimples, cystic acne and acne scars. But, just like the well-known pros, there are some significant cons as well.
Benzoyl peroxide has been shown to cause skin dryness, irritation, peeling of the skin and erythema (skin reddening) in a few skin types. You must also be careful when using it before heading to the gym, as sweat can cause benzoyl peroxide to reach your hair and clothes and cause skin irritation and burns.
Not all kinds of acne benefit from benzoyl peroxide!
When it comes to other types of acne, like non-inflammatory whiteheads and blackheads, benzoyl peroxide is ineffective in handling them. Also, it cannot be used in cases where you also have sensitive skin, psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Most of you may find this astounding, but there is no need to worry. Instead of benzoyl peroxide, there is another high-science solution you can turn to– one that smartly regularises the skin’s microbiome to resolve acne.
After several rounds of research and trials, dermatologists have formulated a revolutionary blend of clinically-proven ingredients that are highly specific in their action and safe for usage. This technologically driven, path-breaking combination of thymol and terpineol (TT) targets the root cause by killing and inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Moreover, it spares good bacteria, restoring your skin’s natural microbiome. It even works on PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), with noticeable improvement from week one! TT technology has been clinically proven to reduce acne within 3–7 days and diminish acne marks in 2 weeks.
Benzoyl peroxide has been used for ages in skincare products. Its potent action on P. acnes bacteria helps reduce acne. But you need to be careful about using this and other over-the-counter skincare products, as they may compromise your skin’s barrier in the long run.
Skincare technologies are evolving at a rapid pace. The clinically proven combination of thymol and terpineol promises more safe, holistic and thorough management of acne. Do keep in mind that you must consult a dermatologist in cases of resistant acne and other skin conditions before heading for any skincare ingredient.
