Benzoyl Peroxide For Acne
Benzoyl peroxide is being used to treat Acne for a while now. Although its effective in the majority of Acne cases, some users are dissatisfied. Benzoyl Peroxide should work on just about anybody. Because this treatment has dual action to provide control and relief from Acne . Why it doesn't work is usually because of poor compliance and/or a lack of supportive measures
Acne is a problem that plays havoc with a person's self image. Every time someone says "oh my Gaaawwd! what HAPPENED to your FACE?", it's a kick in the heart!!!. If you suffer from Acne you must have tried everything over-the-counter, and then some, to get rid of those nasty pimples that so stubbornly refuse to go away. Benzoyl Peroxide is a chemical that you'll find in a lot of preparations which are available in superstores, for the treatment of Acne. Does it work? Yes it does. If used in the right amount in the right manner it helps clear out the complexion and make it zit-free.
How It Works:
Benzoyl Peroxide is made by combining Benzoyl Chloride with Barium Hydroxide. The pure form is potentially explosive. don't worry, your cream or gel won't explode in your face. There's just a percentage of Benzoyl Peroxide in the commercial products. What benzoyl Peroxide does is that it acts as an antimicrobial agent, killing the Acne-causing bacteria: P. Acnes. It also peels the epidermal layers, increasing the cell turnover and preventing blockade of the sebaceous glands. Blocked ducts of the sebaceous glands provide the optimal environment for the bugs to grow..
How To Use:
Benzoyl Peroxide is available in the strengths of 2.5%, 5% and 10%. Research shows that 5% and 10% strengths aren't superior in treating Acne, so go with a gel that contains 2.5%. It might be a good idea to increase the dosage later on depending on how your skin responds. After proper cleansing of the face and/or other involved areas of your body at night, apply a pea-sized amount of Benzoyl Peroxide all over. Keep the quantity of the gel/cream in check initially, as Benzoyl Peroxide is an irritant, and initial redness, dryness and burning sensation are common. You can keep a soothing moisturizer at hand if your skin becomes overdry. Your moisturizer should be oil-free, and ideally a product that has especially been developed for oily and blemish-prone skin. Wear little or no make-up on the affected areas. Just wear a tinted Sun-block if you want to conceal the blemishes.
Benzoyl Peroxide is also available combined with Clindamycin; an antibiotic. It's a sensible approach as the antibiotic works in synergy with Benzoyl Peroxide and quadruples the efficacy. Try it if you have yellowish pus-filled pimples.
If you are about to use Benzoyl Peroxide for the first time, start with 2.5% on alternate nights until your skin adjusts with it. After a couple of weeks it can be used daily without irritating your skin a lot. Since peeling the superficial layers of the skin to remove acne and blackheads is part of Benzoyl Peroxide's function, it will keep on doing just that all through the treatment.
One important part of any anti-Acne regimen is the face wash or soap you use to cleanse your skin. Its always better to use a mild oil-free and soap-free formula while using Benzoyl Peroxide. Mildness matters, as your skin is going to react a bit as it is, with the irritant effect of your medication.
Another step you might want to take is to start a low dose oral antibiotic. Add a zinc containing multivitamin to your regime for glowing results.
Be gentle and patient with yourself while trying to manage your Acne. Acne may appear overnight but it takes some time to go away.