How long should I leave PanOxyl Wash on my skin?

Which PanOxyl wash are you using?

How to apply and rinse PanOxyl

1. 1Wet the area you want to cleanse. For the Canadian 4% wash, cover the entire affected area with a thin layer.
2. 2Apply the wash and gently massage for the time listed above. The directions describe massage time, not an extra waiting period afterwards.
3. 3Rinse thoroughly with water, then pat dry.

The 10% Foaming Wash can be used on the face, chest and back, so the bottle does not need a separate job title for each area. For chest use, PanOxyl specifies lukewarm water and daily use in the shower.3

Should I leave it on longer or overnight?

No. Follow the wash's rinse instructions rather than treating PanOxyl as an overnight treatment. Benzoyl peroxide also comes in gels designed to stay on the skin, but those are a different product type. Using more benzoyl peroxide than directed does not make it work faster and increases the risk of side effects.5

How often should I use it?

Start the US 4% Creamy Wash or Canadian 4% Acne Wash once daily. Their directions allow a gradual increase to two or three applications daily if needed; the US label also allows a doctor's directions. If bothersome dryness or peeling develops, reduce use to once daily or every other day. The US 2% Salicylic Acid Gel Wash starts once daily, with a gradual increase to twice daily if needed or directed by your dermatologist. Keep the contact time the same when changing frequency.124

Before using benzoyl peroxide for the first time, apply a small amount to one or two small areas you want to treat for three days. If there is no reaction or discomfort, use it as directed. Children under 12 should not use benzoyl peroxide without talking to a doctor.6

What should I watch for with a benzoyl peroxide wash?

Keep benzoyl peroxide away from your eyes, lips and mouth, and avoid broken or infected skin. It can bleach hair and dyed fabrics. Use sunscreen when going outside. The US 4% Creamy Wash label says not to use it on very sensitive skin or if you are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide.15

Other topical acne medicines can increase dryness and irritation. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before combining benzoyl peroxide with another acne treatment, including a prescription. If pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before using the 4% Creamy Wash.15

Stop using the wash and ask a doctor if irritation becomes severe. Seek immediate medical advice for blistering or swelling of the treated area. Stop use and get emergency help for throat tightness, difficulty breathing, feeling faint, or swelling of the face, lips or tongue.16

How long before acne improves?

Benzoyl peroxide generally takes about four to six weeks to show effects. Contact your doctor if there is no improvement by then, or sooner if acne worsens. That is general benzoyl peroxide guidance, not a timetable for the salicylic acid Gel Wash.6