Benzoyl Peroxide

I bet everybody have heard about benzoyl peroxide. It is one popular drug that has been used for treating several conditions caused by infectious bacteria. It is noted specifically as a treatment for acne, but is recently known to be potent for treating other skin imperfections.

Benzoyl peroxide, on the most basic, is a chemical that belongs in the family of organic peroxide. It is formulated to contain two groups of benzoyl which are joined by a group of peroxide, hence the name. Now, it is offered as a powerful agent capable of eliminating most, if not all, of the bothering symptoms of skin bacterial infections. It comes under brands names NeoBenz Micro, Stioxyl, Benzac, OXY, Brevoxyl, Panoxyl, and Basiron.

How Does Benzoyl Peroxide Work?

According to several studies, the benzoyl peroxide works to attack bacteria lurking in the skin by releasing an anti-inflammatory agent capable of restoring the balance in the hair follicles. In this manner, the solution control the growth of acne and other skin problems, then allowing the skin to develop into its best state. However, studies have revealed that although the solution is capable of killing the bacteria, it doesn’t work to increase the resistance of the human body to fight against it. It does not also affect the production of oils in the body. It is for this reason that when using benzoyl peroxide, one should take it continually even after the desired result is achieved. The good thing is that it can be used alone or with any other medication, including retinoic acid, salicylic acid, sulfur, and antibiotics.

When the treatment is continued even after the desired result is obtained, the skin condition will tend to improve in just a matter of two weeks to one month.

Strengths Of Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoly peroxide is said to be helpful in a number of ways. In the first place, it is deemed one of the most effective treatments for all types of acne, be it mild or chronic. Other than that, it is so easy and quick to apply with you only required to place an amount of it in its gel or cream form directly onto the skin. Once applied correctly, this solution will start working as a peeling agent, then clearing the skin pores and minimizing the number of bacteria present.

Not only that. Unlike the other acne treatments, benzoyl peroxide can be used as a whitening agent. It works effectively in whitening teeth, as well as in dyeing hair. There are also some researches which state that it can be applied as one major ingredient in the preparation of flour. It also works as a catalyst and initiator for resins found in polyester thermoset.

Although that useful, there are certain side effects associated with the use of benzoyl peroxide. Included in the list are crusting, burning, blistering, swelling, itching, and severe redness of the skin. Dryness and skin peeling may also develop after a few days of use. Whoever is using it will also experience mild stinging and a warmth feeling. If any of these side effects are felt, one should inform a specialist or doctor regarding the symptoms as soon as possible. This is necessary to determine exactly whether the treatment is still safe for you or not at all.

While informing the doctor regarding the side effects of benzoyl peroxide, every interested party must note that this treatment is only formulated to be used externally. Contact with the eyes, lips, throat, or nose must be avoided for once touched by this drug, such areas will develop irritations and burning. Other than that, the use of this drug must be stopped once the skin becomes tremendously irritated. A special medical attention must also be called.