Why is my skin itchy after PanOxyl?

Which PanOxyl are you using?

PanOxyl's Acne Foaming Wash contains 10% benzoyl peroxide, and its Acne Creamy Wash contains 4%. The Acne Gel Wash contains 2% salicylic acid instead, so benzoyl peroxide advice does not automatically apply to that bottle. PanOxyl sells washes, bars, patches and other treatments, because apparently even the bathroom shelf needs a menu.23

Is it irritation or an allergy?

Benzoyl peroxide can cause hot, itchy or painful skin, redness, dryness and peeling. Redness can be harder to see on black or brown skin. Using more than directed increases the risk of side effects without making acne treatment work faster. Combining benzoyl peroxide with another acne treatment can also increase dryness and irritation.14

An allergy is another possible cause. Allergic contact dermatitis is an itchy, red rash caused by contact with an allergen, and it can blister, ooze, flake or swell. The rash can take several days to appear. Previous trouble free use does not rule out an allergy, because allergies can develop over time. Itching alone does not identify which explanation applies to you.5

What should you do now?

1. 1Check for severe symptoms first. Stop using the product and get emergency help for a swollen throat or tongue, difficulty breathing, or a suspected serious allergic reaction.
2. 2For mild dryness or irritation from benzoyl peroxide, reduce how often you use it. General benzoyl peroxide guidance also advises starting with the lowest strength to assess tolerance.
3. 3Use a cold compress and a moisturizing lotion to ease the itch. Avoid scratching, hot conditions and irritating fabrics.
4. 4Review the rest of your routine. Only combine benzoyl peroxide with other acne treatments if a doctor or pharmacist has approved the combination, including prescription treatments.
5. 5If you suspect an allergic rash, remove the suspected product from your routine and do not apply it again. A dermatologist or allergist can use professional patch testing to identify the ingredient responsible.

Follow your product's directions

Acne Cleansing Bar and Acne Treatment Bar are different product names, despite sounding like they were assigned by the same naming committee. The older benzoyl peroxide Acne Cleansing Bar directions specify washing for 1 to 2 minutes; do not transfer that timing to every current PanOxyl cleanser.7

For the current US 10% Acne Treatment Bar, PanOxyl directs you to lather, cover the affected area with a thin layer, rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Start once daily; reduce to once daily or every other day for bothersome dryness or peeling. Avoid eyes, lips and mouth, and use sunscreen when going outside. Do not use the bar on very sensitive skin or if you are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide. Ask a health professional before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.1

How long should itching last?

Common benzoyl peroxide side effects usually improve after a few days or with less frequent use. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if itching bothers you or does not go away. Get a rash assessed if it worsens, keeps returning, lasts longer than three weeks, affects your eyes or mouth, or disrupts sleep. Severe irritation needs medical advice immediately rather than a trial of continued use.145