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Treating acne requires patience, willpower and dedication. With countless acne ‘solutions’ on the market, it is extremely hard to refrain from tampering with your skin while you search for that one hero product.
I experienced my worst breakout last summer and struggled to get it under control until I came across benzoyl peroxide. I was initially unfamiliar with the ingredient but decided to cease use of all other actives and try one last time to clear my skin. The results were immaculate and so I set out on a hunt to learn exactly how benzoyl peroxide is just so beneficial.
Most cases of acne are caused by a build up of bacteria, dead skin cells and oil. “Benzoyl peroxide works deep in the pores of the skin by killing the bacteria that causes acne called p.acnes and as such is particularly helpful in inflammatory pustular acne. It also works to accelerate skin turnover and dry up oily skin, therefore decongesting the skin and improving and reducing acne breakouts,” says Dr Yusra Al-Mukhtar, founder of www.dryusra.com.
I realised the results from benzoyl peroxide were far more visible than that of a popular counterpart, salicylic acid, especially in the areas where my acne became cystic. Dr Tatiana Lapa of www.drtatiana.co.uk describes the difference: ‘Both are effective at removing dead kill cells, but the main difference is that benzoyl peroxide is also a disinfectant that kills bacteria’. As benzoyl peroxide targets acne from the inside rather than just the surface of the skin, making it quite the multi-functional ingredient, it will also quickly aid in the reduction of blackheads, whiteheads and pustular bumps.
I used a prescription strength and saw results within 5 days. However, this was rather strong and I experienced very dry skin as a side effect. As I already suffer from dry, eczema-prone skin, I would recommend a lower strength as this is easier (and safer) to work with. The Acnecide 5% Gel Benzoyl Peroxide allows you to build up your tolerance and results can be expected after around 10 days. Be sure to moisturise frequently and use this product with caution as it can bleach dark fabrics (I learnt the hard way!). I also strongly advise that you moisturise very frequently when using benzoyl peroxide. I took this a step further and began to hydrate my skin daily about a week into use with The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 when I could feel my skin becoming a little too dehydrated. I also continued to do this after I had finished using the benzoyl peroxide.
As beneficial as this ingredient is, I would not recommend long-term use. Discontinue use once you have achieved your desired result and aim to focus on creating and maintaining a healthy and effective skin care routine.
If you’re concerned about scarring, check out out definitive guide to acne scarring prevention and treatment. And for any popaholics among us, don’t even think about touching your face until you’ve read these words of warning from Dr Pimple Popper.