What is PanOxyl used for?

What kind of acne does PanOxyl treat?

Benzoyl peroxide treats mild to moderate acne, including pimples, whiteheads and blocked pores. It also reduces inflammation. Apply the treatment across the acne prone area rather than only to individual pimples to help prevent future breakouts. More severe acne can need prescription treatment, and a wash alone is not always enough.23456

Should you choose 4% or 10%?

PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash contains 4% benzoyl peroxide; Acne Foaming Wash contains 10%. Start with the lower strength to check how your skin tolerates benzoyl peroxide, especially if dryness or sensitivity is a concern. PanOxyl positions its 4% wash for mild to moderate acne and its 10% wash for more severe acne. The Creamy Wash has a creamy texture, which is a more useful description than asking a cleanser to be "dreamy".124

How do you use PanOxyl?

Before first use, apply a small amount to one or two small areas you want to treat for three days. If there is no reaction or discomfort, follow the package directions. These steps are for PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash 4%; follow your own label for other products.3

1. 1Wet the area you want to cleanse.
2. 2Apply the wash and massage into the skin for 1 to 2 minutes.
3. 3Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
4. 4Start once daily. Gradually increase to twice daily if needed or directed by your dermatologist.

For sensitive skin, general benzoyl peroxide guidance allows a slower start, every second night, then increasing as tolerated. A wash is rinsed off, while a gel or cream can have different directions. If treated skin becomes mildly scaly, a light, non oily moisturizer can help.45

How long does PanOxyl take to work?

Benzoyl peroxide can start showing effects after about 4 to 6 weeks. Acne treatment more broadly often takes 6 to 8 weeks before fewer breakouts become noticeable. If there is no improvement after 4 to 6 weeks, contact your doctor; worsening acne or no improvement by 12 weeks needs review. Using extra product will not speed up clearing.346

Can you use it with other acne treatments?

Benzoyl peroxide works best alongside treatment that tackles other causes of acne. Dermatologists sometimes pair it with a retinoid or antibiotic, and it helps reduce antibiotic resistance when used with topical antibiotics. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding another acne treatment. Avoid abrasive cleansers and other products that dry the same skin.467

Who should be careful, and when should you stop?

Most adults and children aged 12 or older can use benzoyl peroxide. Ask a doctor before use in younger children. Avoid broken or infected skin and keep it away from eyes, nose and mouth. Use sunscreen and avoid tanning beds because benzoyl peroxide increases sensitivity to sunlight. Keep it away from hair and coloured fabrics because it can bleach them.347

Benzoyl peroxide can usually be used during pregnancy, but check with your doctor first. If breastfeeding, check with a pharmacist or doctor and avoid applying it to your breasts.4

Mild dryness, redness and peeling can improve with less frequent use. Seek advice if irritation persists or bothers you. Stop using benzoyl peroxide and get prompt medical advice for burning, blistering, swelling or a rash. Get emergency medical help for breathing difficulty, throat tightness, faintness or swelling of the face, lips or tongue.34