Are you also troubled by acne that doesn't seem to be getting better after using various products? Then your doctor may have recommended a face wash, cream, or soap that contains Benzoyl Peroxide. Many people are a little scared when they hear this name. But if used correctly, this is a medicine that can help a lot in controlling acne. So today, let's talk about what Benzoyl Peroxide is, how to use it, and what things to be careful about.
Simply put, what is Benzoyl Peroxide?
Benzoyl Peroxide is a medication used to treat
acne . It belongs to
the antibiotic class. It works by killing the bacteria that cause acne on our skin. It also removes excess oil and dead skin cells, making the skin dry. This also helps to control the formation of new acne. This medication comes in different forms:
- Wash / Cleanser: As a liquid for washing the face or body.
- Creamy Wash: A slightly thick, creamy cleanser.
- Bar: Like a regular bar of soap.
- Cream / Gel: As a cream or gel that can be applied to the skin.
Your doctor will prescribe the most suitable type for you based on the nature of your acne and skin type.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Your doctor will need to know your complete medical history before prescribing this medication. If you have any of the conditions listed below,
be sure to tell your doctor .
- If you have burns, scratches, or large areas of injury on your skin.
- If you have a lung disease or asthma .
- If your skin is very sensitive, or if you have other skin conditions.
- If you have previously had an allergic reaction to Benzoyl Peroxide or other medications, foods, or preservatives.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
If you tell these things without hiding them, the doctor can accurately determine whether this medicine is safe for you or not.
Okay, now let's see how to use this exactly.
This is very important. To get the full benefit of the medicine, you must use it correctly. 1.
External use only: This medicine is for external use only.
Never drink it. 2.
Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the medicine. However, if you are applying the medicine to your hands, wash your hands only before applying it. 3.
Eye protection: Do not let it get into your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately flush your eyes with plenty of water. 4.
How to apply it correctly:- First, moisten the area of skin where the medicine is to be applied with a little water.
- Then take some medicine and apply it slowly to the area. Massage gently until it lathers well.
- Then rinse well with water.
- Pat dry with a clean towel until the skin feels dry, without rubbing vigorously.
5. Take the
medicine at the right time, in the right amount: Take it exactly as your doctor tells you, at the same time every day. Do not take more than the recommended amount. 6.
Complete the course: Take the medicine for the full duration prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel a little short. Do not stop early. If you need to stop, do so only as directed by your doctor.
What if it is used for small children?
Children may need special care when given this medicine, so be sure to talk to your doctor about it.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have accidentally taken too much of this medicine, immediately call
the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go
to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Remember, this medicine is prescribed for you only. Don't give it to a friend of yours who also has acne. Not everyone's skin is the same.
What if I forget to take my medicine?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time.
Never take a double dose. Other things that may interact with this medicine
Some medications can interact with Benzoyl Peroxide, so tell your doctor about everything you're taking.
- Other acne medications: Medications like `(Adapalene)`, `(Isotretinoin)`, `( Tretinoin )`.
- Products that dry out the skin: Products containing salicylic acid or sulfur.
- Topical antibiotics: Things like `( Clindamycin )` or `(Erythromycin)`.
This list is not complete. Therefore, tell your doctor not only about
any other medications, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, but also
if you smoke or drink alcohol .
Things to consider when using
- Be patient: This medicine may take some time to show results. Maybe a few weeks. So be patient and continue using it. Don't miss out on seeing your doctor to check your progress.
- Avoid other things that dry out the skin: Avoid using toners, astringents, or harsh scrubs that contain alcohol, as this medicine can dry out the skin.
- Be careful with the sun: This is very important. When using Benzoyl Peroxide, your skin becomes very sensitive to the sun (photosensitive). So, limit your exposure to the sun as much as possible. If you must go out in the sun, be sure to wear a good sunscreen , a hat, and clothing that covers your body. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds.
- Take care of clothes and fabrics: Benzoyl Peroxide can bleach clothes, pillowcases, and towels, just like chlorine. So be careful not to get this medicine on colored or non-white fabrics.
What side effects can occur?
Like all medications, there is a chance that this one may have minor side effects. But don't worry, most of them are not serious.
Side effects classificationThings to report to your doctor immediatelyThings that are usually not serious, but should be reported to your doctor if they persist
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If this happens, the medicine should be stopped immediately. |
| Minor skin changes | Slight redness, dryness, peeling, or mild inflammation of the skin. These are normal for the first few days. But if they persist or are severe, tell your doctor. |
| Sensitivity to sunlight | Skin turns red or burns quickly when exposed to the sun. |
How do you store and dispose of the medicine?
- Storage: Keep out of reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Avoid storing in damp areas such as bathrooms.
- Disposal: Get rid of expired or no longer needed medications. Some hospitals have programs to take back unwanted medications. Otherwise, remove the medication from the container, mix it with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil, put it in a bag, seal it, and throw it in the trash. Never flush it down the toilet. If you are unsure, ask your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Benzoyl Peroxide is a medication that treats acne and kills bacteria.
- Your skin will become very sensitive to sunlight when using this, so be sure to use sunscreen .
- This medicine may bleach colored fabrics, so be careful with clothes and towels.
- It's normal for the skin to be a little red and dry in the first few days. However, if you experience any allergic symptoms like excessive itching or swelling, see a doctor immediately.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- It takes time to see results, so be patient and continue using it as directed by your doctor.
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