What to Avoid When Using Benzoyl Peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide can be an effective acne treatment, but using it incorrectly can leave your skin unnecessarily dry or irritated. Knowing what to avoid can make it easier to build a routine that works.

Avoid overusing it. Applying benzoyl peroxide more frequently than recommended won’t necessarily clear acne faster. It can instead cause redness, peeling, dryness and burning. If you’re new to it, introduce it gradually and follow the directions on your product.

You should also avoid harsh scrubs and other irritating products. Using benzoyl peroxide alongside strong exfoliating acids, alcohol-heavy products or multiple acne treatments can increase irritation. If you use ingredients such as adapalene or salicylic acid, introduce them carefully.

Don’t apply benzoyl peroxide to broken, severely irritated or sunburned skin. Avoid getting it into your eyes, lips or inside your nose.

Another thing to avoid is forgetting sun protection. Sunscreen is especially useful when you’re managing acne and dark marks, as UV exposure can make post-acne pigmentation more noticeable.

Finally, remember that benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics. Use care with towels, pillowcases and clothing after applying it.

Used consistently and correctly, a 2.5% benzoyl peroxide cleanser can be a useful part of an acne routine.