Can I Apply Benzoyl Peroxide on My Whole Face?

Yes, benzoyl peroxide can be applied across the acne-prone areas of your face, rather than only putting it directly on individual pimples. This can be useful when you regularly experience breakouts in several areas because benzoyl peroxide also helps prevent new acne from developing.

However, if you’re using a 2.5% benzoyl peroxide face wash, you should apply it gently over the face and rinse it off rather than leaving it on overnight.

Avoid the delicate areas around your eyes, lips and nostrils, and don’t apply it to cuts, broken skin or severely irritated areas.

If you’re new to benzoyl peroxide, start gradually. Using it too frequently can cause dryness, peeling, redness or burning. This is particularly important if you have sensitive skin or you’re already using ingredients such as adapalene or exfoliating acids.

For Kenyan skin, avoiding unnecessary irritation is important because inflammation from irritated skin can contribute to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks) after acne heals.

After cleansing, use a gentle moisturiser. During the day, sunscreen can also help protect against worsening acne marks.

Remember that more benzoyl peroxide doesn’t mean faster results. Consistent, appropriate use is more important than applying large amounts.