Is PanOxyl a cleanser?

Which PanOxyl do you have?

PanOxyl is a brand with several products, not a single bottle that has somehow become an entire routine. The US Acne Foaming Wash contains 10% benzoyl peroxide and is a cleanser for the face and body. Canada's Acne Wash contains 4% benzoyl peroxide and is a cream based cleanser for the face, chest and back. Both are acne washes, but their strengths and formulas differ, so use the directions on your own package.13

What does it do besides cleanse?

Benzoyl peroxide treats mild to moderate acne by killing or limiting the growth of bacteria that contribute to breakouts. A benzoyl peroxide wash can help with red pimples and pimples containing pus. For blackheads and whiteheads, dermatologists recommend a retinoid to help unclog pores alongside a benzoyl peroxide wash to reduce bacteria. That is a treatment combination, not a reason to add several acne products without checking how to use them together.245

How do you use PanOxyl as a cleanser?

Before first using benzoyl peroxide, apply a small amount to one or two small affected areas for three days. If there is no reaction or discomfort, proceed with the package directions. For the US 10% Acne Foaming Wash, follow this sequence:4

1. 1Wet the area you want to cleanse.
2. 2Apply the wash and gently massage for one to two minutes.
3. 3Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
4. 4Follow with moisturizer. If you are going outside, apply sunscreen after using the wash.

Start the US 10% wash once daily. PanOxyl's website allows a gradual increase to twice daily if needed; its current US label allows up to three applications daily. Follow your package rather than automatically choosing the highest frequency. For someone new to benzoyl peroxide, starting every other day and alternating with a gentle cleanser is another approach to easing into treatment. Reduce use if bothersome dryness or peeling develops.167

Where does it fit in your routine?

PanOxyl occupies the cleansing step, so its acne treatment role does not automatically require a separate face wash in the same session. The US Acne Foaming Wash is explicitly a cleanser, so the product name is doing more useful work than most bathroom packaging. Moisturize twice daily, including if your skin is oily, and use sunscreen in the morning. Avoid abrasive cleansers and other products that dry the skin. If you already use prescription acne medicine, ask your prescriber how to combine it with benzoyl peroxide; using multiple topical acne medicines increases the risk of dryness and irritation.1267

How long before acne improves?

Benzoyl peroxide can take four to six weeks to show an effect. Contact your doctor if acne has not improved by then. Deep nodules or cysts need a dermatologist's help because they can leave permanent scars; do not wait through repeated cleanser experiments before seeking treatment.45

Who should be careful?

Do not use the US 10% wash if you have very sensitive skin or sensitivity to benzoyl peroxide. Ask a health professional before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and ask a doctor before using benzoyl peroxide on children under 12. Keep the wash away from eyes, lips and mouth, and from hair and dyed fabrics because it can bleach them. Stop and ask a doctor if irritation becomes severe. Stop using benzoyl peroxide and seek immediate medical help for throat tightness, difficulty breathing, faintness, or swelling of the eyes, face, lips or tongue.46