When benzoyl peroxide is applied on acne, the bacteria are killed by the oxygen that is released by the compound. Hence, acne products with benzoyl peroxide are one of the several remedies that can be used to cure this problem – a horror that almost every teenager has to face.
Benzoyl peroxide, one of the oldest acne cures, is a proven treatment. The compound is used in many skin care products that include lotions, ointments, and facial remedies. These items have shown considerable success.
Acne Problems
Acne is one of the most prominent skin conditions that teenagers tend to suffer from, as a result of the hormonal changes that take place in the body. The immediate and also the only symptom is the appearance of marks on the face. The oil from the facial skin is one of the reasons that they appear on the face. The problem is, once the bacteria settle down, infection often occurs. The biggest drawback is that it leaves behind a scar on the skin.
At times, it also happens that the bacteria and oil give rise to more marks. The marks that have a presence of bacteria also tend to evolve into blackheads or whiteheads. These kinds of marks are known as Propionibacterium acnes. The best way to cure this is to kill the bacteria and microbes within it and also prevent more bacteria from invading that portion of the skin again. Benzoyl peroxide is also a wonderful remedy that works against cystic type of acne.
How Benzoyl Peroxide Works
The best treatment that has assured and fast results against the Propionibacterium acnes is benzoyl peroxide. This type has bacteria that cannot survive in an aerobic environment, i.e., environment where there is large amounts of oxygen. A lotion containing this compound can be used. The extermination of bacteria prevents any further breakout on the skin.
However, the best benefit is visible in the chemical’s cleansing property. When applied on the mark, it removes the dead cells in the follicles. These dead cells block the sweat and oil pores on the face. The advantage of cleaning the oil pores is that the oil and sweat does not get accumulated in there. This helps prevent marks and infection.
Most of these gels and lotions should be applied in small quantities and in thin layers. Excess use can also result in skin irritation. Most of them contain 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide and they are applied on dry and cleaned skin.
Even though the acne products with benzoyl peroxide are over-the-counter lotions and gels, I would recommend that you take the guidance of any medical practitioner. Inappropriate use of these medications can cause serious side effects that include extreme dryness, flaking, itching, irritation, and burning of the skin. Though, these side effects would not appear to be serious, they can cause damage to your skin in the long term. It is better to be cautious, than sorry.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.