How to use benzoyl peroxide cream

How do you apply benzoyl peroxide cream?

1. 1Check your product's directions. If the three day test causes no reaction or discomfort, proceed as directed.
2. 2Wash your hands, then gently wash the affected skin and pat it dry. Do not scrub.
3. 3Apply a small amount in a thin film over the affected area and rub it in gently. Keep the cream out of your eyes, nose and mouth.
4. 4Wash your hands afterwards, unless your hands are the area being treated.
5. 5Use the cream at the same time each day. Follow the label for whether to increase to twice daily, and do not apply it more often than directed.

Cream instructions differ from wash instructions. The two to five minute contact time used for benzoyl peroxide foam washes on the back is not a direction for cream. If you miss an application, use it when you remember unless the next dose is almost due; never double up.13

What can you use alongside it?

For general acne care, a water based or noncomedogenic moisturizer helps manage dryness from treatment. Stop using a product that makes your acne worse. For the treated area, check with your pharmacist or prescriber before layering lotions, cosmetics or other skin medicines over the cream.24

Avoid abrasive cleansers, drying alcohol products and adding another acne treatment to the same area without advice. Tell your clinician about prescriptions and other acne products, including adapalene, tretinoin, isotretinoin, salicylic acid and topical antibiotics. Some combinations are used deliberately, but they need a coordinated plan.13

Benzoyl peroxide can increase sun sensitivity. Limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when outdoors. Choose a noncomedogenic, broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Those label details are more useful than a name that sounds like a tropical holiday.13

How long does it take, and what if it irritates?

Allow four to six weeks to see effects; contact your doctor if acne has not improved then. Mild dryness, peeling, warmth, tingling or slight stinging can occur. For mild irritation, general acne medicine guidance is to use smaller amounts, apply every other or third day temporarily, and wait 10 to 15 minutes after washing before applying. Report persistent or bothersome irritation.124

Get prompt medical advice for burning, blistering, marked redness, swelling or a rash. Stop using benzoyl peroxide and seek immediate help for hives, throat tightness, breathing difficulty, faintness, or swelling of the eyes, face, lips or tongue. Deep, painful spots, scarring, worsening acne or acne affecting your mental health also warrant a doctor visit.256

Before starting, discuss pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergies, sensitive skin or a large area of damaged skin with your clinician. Children under 12 need medical advice before use. Keep the cream away from hair and coloured fabrics because it can bleach them.12

How should you store it?

Follow the package storage instructions and avoid excess heat. Benzoyl peroxide can break down into benzene, especially with high temperatures or prolonged storage. If concerned, replace products every 10 to 12 weeks and discard products exposed to temperatures above 78 degrees Fahrenheit, as the American Academy of Dermatology advises.7

What is benzoyl peroxide cream?

Benzoyl peroxide cream is a skin medicine for mild to moderate acne. It reduces inflammation and kills or prevents the growth of bacteria on the skin. Benzoyl peroxide is available in both prescription and nonprescription acne medicines.17