Is PanOxyl good for acne?

Which PanOxyl product do you mean?

The PanOxyl name covers cleansers, treatments and moisturizers, so the logo is doing more than one job. This answer focuses on its benzoyl peroxide washes; its adapalene gel and salicylic acid products are different treatments.4

PanOxyl's 10% Acne Foaming Wash is intended for the face, chest and back. For a first benzoyl peroxide product, start with the lowest available strength to check tolerance rather than automatically choosing 10%. Use the directions on your particular pack.56

What types of acne can it help?

• Small red pimples and pimples with a white or yellow centre: a benzoyl peroxide wash is a treatment option.
• Blackheads and whiteheads: a wash helps reduce bacteria, while a retinoid such as adapalene addresses clogged pores. Ask a pharmacist or doctor before combining treatments.
• Deep nodules or cysts: see a dermatologist rather than relying on a wash alone. These breakouts can cause permanent scars.

Acne is not a hygiene problem, so the bathroom does not need to become a car wash. Scrubbing blackheads will worsen acne; their dark colour is not dirt.35

How should you use PanOxyl?

1. 1Before first use, apply a small amount to one or two small affected areas for three days. If there is no reaction or discomfort, proceed as directed.
2. 2Start once daily to see how your skin reacts. Follow your pack's instructions before increasing use.
3. 3Wet the affected skin with lukewarm water. PanOxyl tells users of its 10% Acne Foaming Wash to massage gently for 1 to 2 minutes.
4. 4Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. A wash is rinsed off, not left on like a treatment gel.
5. 5For chest acne, apply a gentle moisturizer that will not clog pores after showering.

Use sunscreen during the day and avoid sunbeds. Keep the wash away from eyes, nose and mouth, and avoid cuts, grazes or infected skin. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach hair and coloured fabrics. Avoid abrasive cleansers and drying products. If you already use prescription acne medication, check with your prescriber before adding PanOxyl.16

How long does it take to work?

Benzoyl peroxide can start showing effects in 4 to 6 weeks; acne treatment generally needs at least 6 to 8 weeks before you see fewer breakouts. These are general treatment timelines, not a fixed PanOxyl deadline. Use it consistently as directed, and contact a doctor if there is no improvement after 4 to 6 weeks or acne gets worse. Using more will not make treatment work faster.126

Who should be careful, and when should you stop?

Dryness, peeling and slight stinging can occur. Sensitive skin needs particular attention to tolerance: using the wash less often can reduce common irritation. Ask a pharmacist or doctor about symptoms that bother you or persist. Get prompt medical advice for burning, blistering, redness, swelling or a rash.16

Stop using benzoyl peroxide and seek immediate medical help for hives, itching, throat tightness, difficulty breathing, faintness or swelling of the eyes, face, lips or tongue.1

Do not use benzoyl peroxide if you have had an allergic reaction to it. For children under 12, speak to a doctor first. Benzoyl peroxide can usually be used during pregnancy, but check with your doctor. If breastfeeding, check with a pharmacist or doctor first and avoid applying it to the breasts.16