What is benzoyl peroxide?
Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is one of the most effective and most commonly used acne compounds. It is available without prescription and has been used successfully for decades. The big advantage: There is no resistance development.
Benzoyl peroxide acts antibacterially by releasing oxygen which kills the anaerobic acne bacteria. In addition, it has a slightly peeling (keratolytic) effect.
Available in various concentrations (2.5%, 5%, 10%) and formulations (gel, cream, wash lotion). Known brands are Benzaknen®, PanOxyl® and Aknefug BP®.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Benzoylperoxid 2,5-10%
Benzoyl peroxide acts via oxygen release:
Antibacterial mechanism:
- BPO disintegrates on the skin to benzoic acid and oxygen
- The free oxygen oxidizes bacterial proteins
- P. acnes (anaerobic) is killed
- No resistance development possible!
Ceratolytic action:
- Light peeling effect
- Sold horn plucks in the pores
- Opens clogged follicles
Why not resistance? The oxidative mechanism is non-specific – bacteria cannot develop resistance. Therefore, BPO is indispensable for resistance prevention in antibiotic therapy.
Who is it suitable for?
Benzoyl peroxide is suitable for:
- Light to moderate acne
- All acne forms with inflammation
- In addition to antibiotics (prevents resistance)
- For maintenance therapy
- As OTC treatment without prescription
Advantages:
- No resistance development
- Recipe-free
- Quickly effective (within days)
- Good combination
Restrictions:
- Can bleach textiles
- Irritating in sensitive skin
- dry skin
Available Dosages
Concentrations:
- 2.5% – mild, for sensitive skin
- 5% – Standard
- 10% – strong, with robust skin
Important: Higher concentration = more irritation, but NOT more effectiveness! 2.5% is as effective against bacteria as 10%.
Depletion forms:
- Gel (standard)
- Cream (dry skin)
- Washing lotion (less irritating)
- Spot-Treatment
Recommendation: Start with 2.5%, only with good compatibility.
How to Take
Application Gel/Creme: 1. Clean and dry skin Two. Apply thin to affected areas 3. 1-2x daily (start with 1x daily) 4. Let's move
Waschlotion (at least irritating): 1. Apply to moist skin Two. leave for 1-2 minutes 3. rinse thoroughly 4. 1x daily
Conciliation:
- First week: Every 2nd day
- Then slowly increase
- Pray with strong irritation
**
- Blight textiles (towels, pillowcases, clothes)!
- Use white linen and old towels
- Wash hands after application
Contraindications
Do not apply at:
- hypersensitivity to benzoyl peroxide
- On damaged or strongly irritated skin
- In the area of eyes and mucosa
Preview at:
- Very sensitive skin
- Atopic dermatitis
- Rosacea (can worsen)
- Simultaneous application of other irritating products
pregnant and breastfeeding: Can be applied. Low systemic recording.
Possible Side Effects
**
- dry skin
- Roasting
- dandruff
- Burning in application
- Itching
Occasionally:
- Contact dermatitis
- Allergic reaction (same)
- Increased sun sensitivity
Measurement: In the first days, the acne can work briefly worse.
Textile bleaching: No side effect, but important: BPO makes substances irreversible!
Interactions
Preview with simultaneous application of:
- Retinoids (Tretinoin, Adapalen) – enhanced irritation
- Other drying products
- AHA/BHA peeling
Ingenious combination:
- With Adapalen (Epiduo = fixed combination)
- With topical antibiotics (Duac = fixed combination)
- Time-replaced with retinoids (morgens BPO, evening retinoid)
Sustainability problem: Tretinoin is inactivated by BPO – do not apply simultaneously. Adapalen is more stable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is benzoyl peroxide right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.