Can I use PanOxyl with CeraVe PM?

Why use a moisturizer after PanOxyl?

Benzoyl peroxide treats acne by reducing bacteria and helping clear blocked pores, but it can dry and irritate skin. Daily moisturizer can help your skin tolerate acne treatment, including when your skin feels oily. PanOxyl treats acne and CeraVe PM supplies moisture, giving this routine two jobs rather than a skincare committee.135

CeraVe PM is a lightweight, oil free lotion with no added fragrance. Its ceramides help maintain the skin's protective barrier, hyaluronic acid supports moisture balance, and niacinamide may help calm skin. Its noncomedogenic label means it is unlikely to cause acne. CeraVe lists it for all skin types, including oily skin.13

How to use them together at night

1. 1If benzoyl peroxide is new to you, test a small amount on one or two small affected areas for three days before using it as directed.
2. 2Wet your face. For PanOxyl 4% Acne Creamy Wash, massage into skin for 1 to 2 minutes. Follow your own bottle's directions if you use another version.
3. 3Rinse thoroughly and gently pat dry. Keep the wash away from your eyes, lips, mouth and nose.
4. 4Apply CeraVe PM liberally to your face and neck. CeraVe directs nighttime use, after cleansing and any treatment.

If a new CeraVe PM pump dispenses nothing, twist it left and press several times, because apparently moisturizer also needs an onboarding process.3

Which strength and how often?

Start with the lowest benzoyl peroxide strength. Between these two washes, that is the 4% Creamy Wash, which PanOxyl also suggests for dry skin. Its directions say to start once daily and gradually increase to twice daily if needed or directed by your dermatologist. You do not need to increase simply because the bottle allows it. If irritation develops, reduce use.24

What should I expect?

Allow about 4 to 6 weeks to see benzoyl peroxide's effects. CeraVe PM provides hydration, not a faster acne treatment schedule. Using more benzoyl peroxide will not speed results and increases the risk of side effects. Contact your doctor if acne has not improved after 4 to 6 weeks, or sooner if it gets worse.356

When should I be careful?

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before combining PanOxyl with another acne treatment, including prescription products. Other acne medicines and scrubs can add dryness and irritation. Check before using PanOxyl during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and before using benzoyl peroxide on a child under 12. Do not apply it to infected or broken skin. Use sunscreen during the day and keep benzoyl peroxide away from hair and colored fabrics because it can bleach them.456

For mild dryness or peeling, use the wash less often; seek advice if symptoms persist or bother you. Get urgent medical advice for burning, blistering, rash or swelling. Stop benzoyl peroxide and get emergency help for throat tightness, difficulty breathing, faintness, or swelling of the eyes, face, lips or tongue.56