Can I slug over benzoyl peroxide?

Why skip the petroleum jelly layer?

Slugging creates a protective layer that reduces water loss overnight. Slugging is a moisture sealing step, not an acne treatment with a glossy finish. It can help dry skin, but oily or acne prone skin should skip it because it can worsen acne. Infected skin and open wounds are also reasons to avoid slugging.3

Benzoyl peroxide directions advise against putting dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions or other skin medicines on the treated area unless your doctor tells you to. That makes avoiding a sealing layer over the medication a sensible general precaution. Slugging also traps products underneath its barrier; retinoids and exfoliating acids can irritate skin when covered this way.13

What should I do instead?

1. 1Clean gently. Use a mild cleanser, avoid scrubbing and let your skin dry before applying a product that stays on.
2. 2Use benzoyl peroxide as directed. Apply a thin layer of gel to the affected area. For a wash, follow its own instructions and rinse it off rather than leaving it underneath other products.
3. 3Choose an acne suitable moisturizer. Look for water based or noncomedogenic products, and check with your pharmacist or doctor about layering one with your specific benzoyl peroxide treatment.
4. 4Use sunscreen during the day. Benzoyl peroxide makes skin more sensitive to sunlight; avoid sunbeds and sunlamps.

A label that says "noncomedogenic" is a useful starting point, not a service level agreement. The word means the product is intended not to clog pores, but a product carrying that label can still cause acne. Stop using a moisturizer if it makes your breakouts worse.2

Does a benzoyl peroxide wash change the answer?

A wash is rinsed off, while a gel, cream or lotion can remain on the skin. That changes whether you are covering medication, but not the advice to avoid slugging on acne prone skin. Follow the contact time on your wash's packet rather than borrowing directions from a different product.134

What if benzoyl peroxide is causing dryness?

Start with the lowest strength and once daily use, following your product's directions. Dryness, peeling and mild stinging are possible. Using it less often can help common side effects; ask a pharmacist or doctor if symptoms bother you or persist. More medication will not work faster and increases the risk of side effects. Avoid harsh cleansers, drying toners and additional acne treatments unless your doctor or pharmacist has approved the combination.124

Benzoyl peroxide is an established acne treatment, so dryness is not automatically a reason to abandon it. Expect initial effects around 4 to 6 weeks. If there is no improvement then, contact your doctor rather than adding an occlusive layer or increasing the amount.15

When should I stop or get help?

Get prompt medical advice for burning, blistering, marked redness, swelling or a rash. Stop benzoyl peroxide and seek urgent help for hives, throat tightness, difficulty breathing, faintness or swelling of the face, lips or tongue. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor or pharmacist before use. Have prescription combinations checked before changing their routine.1