Benzoyl peroxide
Also sold as: Benzac AC, Persol
No prescription neededSkin medicines
Comes as:GelCream
Usual adult dose
Acne: wash and dry the skin, then apply a thin layer once a day (later twice a day if needed). Start with 2.5% or 5%. Improvement takes 4 to 6 weeks. It can bleach clothes, towels and hair.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- dryness
- peeling
- redness
- mild burning
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- severe allergic reaction (swelling
- trouble breathing)
- severe blistering
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Do not put on the eyes, lips, mouth or broken skin
- Very sensitive skin or eczema (use with caution)
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Minor1 medicineUsually not a problem, but tell your doctor.
- Tretinoin
Using both increases skin irritation; apply them at different times of day.