Whether you’re someone who is constantly battling breakouts or you just get the occasional pimple, you’ve probably heard of (or even tried) benzoyl peroxide, one of the top FDA-approved acne-fighting ingredient recommended by dermatologists. “Benzoyl peroxide has been used to treat acne for over 85 years,” says Christine Choi Kim, M.D., a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Los Angeles, CA. “Benzoyl peroxide is the ultimate multi-tasker: It’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, keratolytic [meaning it breaks up the top layer of dead skin cells] and comedolytic [meaning it dissolves blackheads and whiteheads].” The powerful acne-blasting ingredient can also help kill certain bacteria that contribute to acne formation, making it key for pimple prevention, too.
What kind of skin is benzoyl peroxide good for?
Like many acne treatments, benzoyl peroxide “is best for people with oily, acneic, blemish-prone skin, as well as those with body acne on the chest, back, shoulders or buttocks,” explains Dr. Choi Kim. Benzoyl peroxide is good for all types of acne, including cysts, blackheads and whiteheads, but it’s particularly great at treating inflammatory cystic acne.
However, BP, as it’s often called, is drying, so it’s not ideal for those with dry or particularly sensitive skin, while those with rosacea or eczema should also avoid it. And if you’re pregnant, you’ll want to talk to your doctor before using any products with benzoyl peroxide.
What should I look for in a benzoyl peroxide product?
If you suffer from severe acne, you can get heavy-duty prescription benzoyl peroxide products from your derm, but for those with mild to moderate acne you can easily find over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide products that come in various strengths. When first choosing a product with BP, Dr. Choi Kim suggests starting with a lower percentage, like 2.5 or 5%, “to maximize effectiveness and minimize irritation.”
If your skin is on the sensitive side, look for a formula that also includes humectants like glycerin, hyaluronic acid and allantoin to soothe and hydrate skin simultaneously. Alternatively, if you are looking for an extra-potent acne treatment, try a product that combines BP with the breakout-minimizing ingredient salicylic acid, topical antibiotics or certain topical retinoids, like adapalene. Since each of these skincare ingredients combats acne differently, they can work synergistically to treat and prevent all types of breakouts.
Here are the best benzoyl peroxide products you can buy to clear your skin for good, according to dermatologists, the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab skincare product experts and glowing online reviews, including top-rated gels, spot treatments, face washes and more.
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