Acne is the most common cause of dark spots. Most people with acne are aged between 12 and 25, but some older and younger people also experience acne. The small sebaceous glands lie just beneath the skin’s surface and produce sebum, which keeps the skin supple and smooth. Tiny pores on the skin’s surface allow the sebum to enter the skin. Some of these tiny pores become blocked in acne, causing small pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads.
It comes in many forms, including creams, gels, lotions, soaps, and pads. Some of the best features of Benzoyl Peroxide are here below:
- Fast Acne Removal
One of the biggest advantages of Benzoyl Peroxide is that it clears blemishes fast by killing the acne-causing bacteria. Initially, it was used on affected areas because it dries up the pimples very quickly. New concentrations and formulations have been introduced; products that contain lower concentrations are as effective as those with higher concentrations. It means you can get the same results without any dryness.
- Acts as an Anti-Inflammatory agent
Benzoyl Peroxide also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent by reducing skin oxygenation, thereby reducing pore bacteria. It works to reduce inflammation within the blemish.
- Decreases Oil Production-
Benzoyl peroxide can decrease the skin’s oil production. Overactive oil glands contribute to acne because excess oil plugs pores or hair follicles and also prevents dead skin cells from sloughing away. A build-up of dead cells further irritates and clogs pores. Blocked pores can turn into whiteheads or blackheads, which may then become swollen, red, pus-filled bumps known as pimples. They also develop into large, painful cysts or nodules under the skin surface that can cause scarring.
- Antibiotic Properties-
Benzoyl Peroxide is a topical antibiotic that kills Propionibacterium acnes. Propionibacterium acne is the bacterium that causes acne and also results in inflammation. Propionibacterium acnes is anaerobic, which means it cannot survive in an oxygenated environment. Benzoyl Peroxide is an oxidising agent; applying this substance moves oxygen into clogged pores and eliminates anaerobic bacteria. It is more effective at eliminating this bacteria than other topical solutions, including salicylic acid, resorcinol, and sulfur. Some acne treatment products and systems combine Benzoyl Peroxide with one or more strong ingredients to increase effectiveness.
Side Effects-
- Causes dehydration and, at times, premature ageing
Benzoyl Peroxide is associated with premature ageing and dehydrated skin because it causes irritation; anything irritating is usually dehydrating. If a quality moisturiser is consistently used, the skin can bounce back to normal.
- Can lead to hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a vital feature of acne, and Benzoyl Peroxide does little to help it. It causes significantly more hyperpigmentation, especially in medium to dark skin tones, due to its irritation.
- Induces sun damage
Benzoyl Peroxide cleans pores, but some experts say that as it does so, it makes the skin thicker and reduces its ability to protect itself from the sun. Benzoyl Peroxide weakens the effects of your SPF and makes the skin more sensitive to the sun.
Precautions-
- Before using Benzoyl Gel, tell your dermatologist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as perfumes) that can cause allergic reactions or other skin problems.
- Benzoyl may make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, sunlamps, and tanning booths. Use sunscreen and protective clothing when going outside.
