Can you use PanOxyl Wash after a sweaty workout?

What does PanOxyl do after exercise?

Benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria involved in acne and helps keep pores from becoming clogged. A shower removes sweat, oil and bacteria after exercise. Sweat is only part of the breakout picture: oil, bacteria, heat and friction also matter, so sweat does not deserve the entire performance review. PanOxyl is an acne treatment, not a requirement simply because you exercised; a mild cleanser is another option for cleaning up.1345

How to use it after your workout

1. 1Shower after exercise when possible. Wet the acne prone area with lukewarm water.
2. 2Apply the wash gently with your fingertips. For PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash 10%, massage into the skin for 1 to 2 minutes.
3. 3Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Avoid scrubbing or using hot water, which can irritate acne prone skin.
4. 4Follow with a light moisturizer. If you are going outdoors, use a broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

Change into clean clothes after exercise; yesterday's workout shirt is not part of today's training plan. Oil, bacteria and dead skin cells on unwashed clothing can clog pores. During exercise, gently pat sweat away with a clean towel rather than rubbing it off.45

What if you already used PanOxyl today?

If you are using PanOxyl once daily, schedule that application after your workout and use a gentle cleanser for other washes. A second workout does not automatically call for a second medicated wash. For the 10% Foaming Wash, increase to twice daily gradually only if needed or directed by your dermatologist. Choose the time around your workout; the directions do not require morning or evening use.25

Should you use the 4% or 10% wash?

PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash contains 4% benzoyl peroxide, which the brand recommends for mild to moderate acne. Acne Foaming Wash contains 10%, which the brand recommends for more severe acne. Choose by your acne needs, not how sweaty the workout was. The contact time above is specifically for the 10% Foaming Wash; follow your own bottle's directions.23

What if your skin is sensitive?

Benzoyl peroxide can irritate sensitive skin. Avoid using it at the same time as other drying products, including salicylic acid. If the wash irritates your skin, switch your workout cleanup to a mild cleanser rather than adding more acne products. Check with your dermatologist before combining benzoyl peroxide with prescription acne treatments, retinoids or antibiotics.13

What if you cannot shower yet?

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and change out of sweaty clothing. If no cleanser is available, rinsing with lukewarm water still helps. Benzoyl peroxide wash can also help reduce bacteria related body odor after exercise.1

How soon should breakouts improve?

Most people start seeing results from benzoyl peroxide after about four weeks of use, not after one shower. If breakouts are not improving with your routine, make an appointment with a dermatologist. A prickly, burning, itchy rash after sweating can be heat rash rather than acne, so do not assume every workout related bump needs PanOxyl.34