Acne is a really annoying thing, isn't it? Especially at a young age, many people are depressed because of acne that appears all over their face. So, there are various medications in the market to control this acne. Today we are going to talk about pads containing Benzoyl Peroxide, a medicine that many people use and that is recommended by doctors. Let's find out exactly what this is, how to use it, and what things to be careful about.
What is Benzoyl Peroxide?
Simply put, this is a medicine used to treat acne. We know that the main cause of acne is the bacteria on our skin. So what this medicine does is kill those bacteria or stop them from growing. It belongs to a group of drugs called antibiotics . This medicine comes in the form of pads, so it is very easy to use. But it can also have other benefits, so if you have any questions, it is best to ask your doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before a doctor prescribes this medication for you, it is very important to give him a complete description of your health condition, because that information will determine whether this medication is suitable for you or not.
Be sure to inform your doctor, especially if you have any of the following conditions:
| Situation to be concerned about | Description |
|---|---|
| Skin problems | Tell us about any burns, large areas of wounds, other skin conditions, or skin sensitivity you have. |
| Allergies | Let us know if you have any allergies to Benzoyl Peroxide or any other medicine, food, or dyes. |
| Respiratory diseases | If you have lung diseases like asthma, tell your doctor about it. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, always consult your doctor before using this medicine. |
Okay, now let's see how to use this exactly.
The method of using this is very simple, but doing it correctly is very important for the results.
1. Cleanse the skin: Before applying the medication, wash the acne-prone area with a gentle cleanser, pat dry with a clean towel, and pat dry.
2. Apply the medicine with the pad: Now take the medicated pad and apply it only to the areas with acne.
3. Be careful: When applying the medicine, be careful not to let it get into sensitive areas like the eyes, lips, nostrils, or inside the mouth . Also, do not apply it to raw or irritated skin.
4. Do not wash: Do not wash the area with water for at least an hour after applying the medicine. You need to give the medicine time to work.
5. If your skin becomes dry: If your skin feels very dry, flaky, or irritated while using this, tell your doctor about it.
What if it is used for children?
This medicine may require special care when used in children. Therefore, always seek medical advice before giving this to a child.
What if the medicine is used too much?
Although this is a topical medication, it is not advisable to use it excessively. If someone accidentally ingests it, or if they experience any unusual symptoms after using it excessively, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What are the contraindications for using this medicine?
When you use this medicine, some other medicines may interact with it. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking.
- Adapalene
- Isotretinoin
- Products containing salicylic acid or sulfur
- Other topical antibiotics, such as clindamycin or erythromycin
- Tretinoin
This list is not complete. Tell your doctor about any other medications, herbs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking, as well as if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs .
Things to consider when using
- Be patient: This medicine may take some time to show results. So don't stop suddenly because you're not seeing results. Continue using it as directed by your doctor.
- Avoid other things that dry out your skin: It's best to avoid using things like toners that contain alcohol and abrasive cleansers during this time, as these can also dry out your skin a bit.
- Be careful in the sun: Your skin may become more sensitive to the sun (photosensitivity) while using this medication. Therefore, avoid going out in the sun as much as possible. If you do go out, it is essential to wear long-sleeved clothing, a hat, and use a good sunscreen.
- Clothes may change color: This is very important. Benzoyl Peroxide can bleach or change the color of your clothes, towels, and pillowcases. White clothes in particular may turn yellow. So, wait until the medicine has completely dried before putting on clothes and going to bed.
Let's also learn about side effects.
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Excessive skin inflammation | If there is severe inflammation, itching, crusting, or severe peeling of the skin in the areas where the medicine was applied. |
| Side effects that are usually nothing to worry about, but if they persist, you should tell your doctor. | |
| Minor skin changes | Mild burning, redness, or dryness of the skin (this may occur in many people at first) |
| Sun sensitivity | Skin sensitivity to the sun more than normal. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual, tell your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Benzoyl Peroxide is just a topical medication that treats acne. It is not good to ingest for any reason.
- Before using this medicine, tell your doctor about all other medical conditions you have and all medicines you use .
- Be sure to use sunscreen when going out in the sun while using the medication.
- This medicine may discolor clothes and fabrics, so be careful.
- If you experience any serious side effects, such as severe skin irritation or swelling , see a doctor immediately.
- Acne is something that can be treated and cured. So, don't worry, and seek the right treatment based on proper medical advice .
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