Should benzoyl peroxide go on before an acne patch?

Why not put a patch over it?

Benzoyl peroxide directions advise against applying dressings or bandages to the treated area without a doctor's approval. Letting the medicine dry does not change that instruction. A hydrocolloid acne patch can help protect a pimple from picking, but that is a separate use. A hydrocolloid patch can help stop picking, so the sticker has a job beyond looking busy.13

How to use a benzoyl peroxide treatment

1. 1If you are using benzoyl peroxide for the first time, apply a small amount to one or two small treatment areas for three days. Continue as directed if there is no reaction or discomfort.
2. 2Wash your hands, gently clean the affected skin and pat it dry. Avoid scrubbing.
3. 3Apply a thin layer of gel to the affected area, or use the amount specified on your cream or lotion label. Wash your hands afterwards.
4. 4Leave the treated area uncovered unless your doctor has approved a dressing. Do not add a patch just because the treatment has absorbed.

What if benzoyl peroxide is in your face wash?

A benzoyl peroxide wash is rinsed off rather than left under a patch. Follow your wash's directions: for a benzoyl peroxide gel wash, wet the area, wash with a small amount for one to two minutes, rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Follow the patch's own instructions afterwards; do not treat a rinse off wash as an extra spot treatment to leave beneath it.2

What can each product do?

Benzoyl peroxide reduces bacteria involved in acne and is an option for treating a few pimples. A hydrocolloid patch can help keep you from touching or squeezing a breakout. Picking whiteheads can lead to more whiteheads and scars. Spot treatments designed for pimples are available at the drugstore, so the shopping list does not need a luxury department.345

Start benzoyl peroxide once daily to see how your skin reacts, and follow the label or prescription rather than adding extra applications. Expect effects to take about four to six weeks. Contact your doctor if there is no improvement by then. Using more than directed will not make it work faster and increases the risk of side effects.12

Who should be careful?

Start with the lowest strength, especially if your skin is sensitive. Do not apply benzoyl peroxide to broken or infected skin, cuts or grazes, including a spot damaged by picking. Check with a doctor or pharmacist before combining it with other acne treatments, including medicated patches. Benzoyl peroxide can usually be used during pregnancy, but check first; breastfeeding also needs a check, and it should not be applied to the breasts.2

Dryness, peeling, warmth or slight stinging can occur. Speak to a doctor if symptoms are severe or persist. Get prompt medical advice for burning, blistering or swelling. Stop using benzoyl peroxide and seek emergency help for throat tightness, difficulty breathing, faintness or swelling of the face, lips or tongue. An extremely painful, deep breakout also warrants a dermatologist's attention rather than more layers of spot treatment.15

Keep benzoyl peroxide away from excess heat and follow the package's storage instructions. If you are concerned about product breakdown during storage, replace it every 10 to 12 weeks and discard products exposed to temperatures above 78°F.6