Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the most common treatments for acne. Many of the products in the market contain Benzoyl Peroxide as an active ingredient including several popular lotions, soaps, cleansers, gels and creams. Few examples of over the counter acne treatment product containing Benzoyl Peroxide as an active ingredient are: Neutrogena Acne, Benoxyl, Clear by Design, PanOxyl, Clean & Clear, Clearasil and Oxy.

Benzoyl peroxide can be found in several different forms of products including gels, creams, cleansing bars, cleansing lotions, facial masks and sticks. It is strongly advised to use benzoyl peroxide only as directed. The quantity suggested by your dermatologist or in the instructions provided with the product, is intended to avoid skin irritation and allergic reactions. Be careful and avoid sensitive areas such as eyes, mouth or inside the nose, while applying any product that contains benzoyl peroxide. If accidentally applied to these areas, wash it away with cold water immediately. Make sure to clean and dry your skin before you apply benzoyl peroxide. You can start with a lotion or gel in a 2.5% concentration. Higher concentration may irritate the skin. It is better to start with a lower concentration to let your skin get used to the benzoyl peroxide treatments. Later you can move up to a higher concentration product if results are not seen after several weeks.

Benzoyl peroxide has three basic properties. It is very effective when used as an antiseptic, it is also an oxidizing agent and it acts as an anti-inflammatory as well. Benzoyl Peroxide is effective in reducing skin surface bacteria and yeast on the surface of the skin. For these reasons, it is considered to be most effective in treating acne, by many dermatologists. OTC acne treatment products with Benzoyl Peroxide as an active ingredient have 2.5% and 5% concentration. Prescription medications are also available with 10% concentration of Benzoyl Peroxide for more severe skin condition. It is advised to use products with low concentration of Benzoyl Peroxide, as it is a high drying agent and some acne sufferers get allergic to this chemical.

It is recommended to follow the directions that are provided along with the product package or by your dermatologist since the chances of experiencing the side effects can be reduced noticeably by following all the directions carefully. If unwanted side effects occur, you may want to reduce the use of the product to every other day, or use a benzoyl peroxide product with a lower concentration. The effects of benzoyl peroxide vary from person to person. It is always wise to consult a doctor or a skin specialist before beginning any treatments.

The most noted side effects of benzoyl peroxide are dryness of the affected area and flaking. These side effects are usually not that severe and can possibly be reduced by using an oil-free moisturizing lotion. Some other side effects include too much dryness and flaking, redness, and burning.