Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is a white or off-white water-soluble crystalline powder in the organic peroxide family that has been used in acne treatment formulas for more than 80 years. It works as a bleaching and peeling agent, is antimicrobial, increases cell turnover, reduces bacterial count, clears up existing acne, and prevents future breakouts.

Benzoyl peroxide offers the following benefits:

• It peels skin like salicylic or resorcinol, reducing blockages.
• It kills the bacterium Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes).
• It has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pain and discomfort associated with many lesions.
• It eliminates fatty acids and oils in the skin.

Benzoyl peroxide can be extremely irritating and drying. During the initial weeks, you may experience some dryness, redness, itching, flaking, tightness, or mild peeling. This is temporary and will subside as your skin adapts. Those who can push through the initial dryness and light flaking will see the fastest results. However, if you are uncomfortably dry or have a dark skin tone, let us know. We can offer some helpful tips for getting through the dry phase.

We have found the best success with using benzoyl peroxide in the evening, as our bodies do their best healing while we sleep! There are times when Acne Med is used in the morning with a "timed method," but we suggest connecting with one of our licensed Acne Coaches to decide if this is best for you.

Do not use benzoyl peroxide on your neck or eye area as it can over-dry and irritate the delicate tissue in these areas.

Do not use eye cream around the eyes as the benzoyl peroxide will migrate through the cream and cause irritation and possible swelling. Instead, choose a water-based eye gel or serum and apply before applying your Acne Med.

If your eyelids get irritated, try changing your pillowcase more often. When wearing Acne Med at night, it will transfer to the pillowcase. Some clients prefer to apply a thin layer of Sorella Apothecary Salving Grace Recovery Ointment to the eye area before using Acne Med, to prevent benzoyl peroxide from traveling and reaching the delicate eye area.

The area around the mouth tends to be the most sensitive area on the face and will be the first place you notice irritation and dryness. You can apply a very thin layer of Hydrinity Luxe Lip Hydrator to this area for a few days, then resume regular product use.

Do not wear benzoyl peroxide when you expect to perspire. If you plan to exercise, engage in physical labor, or be outside in the sun, be sure to fully remove your Acne Med to avoid irritation.

Benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics. Use white towels and linens when applying your Acne Med, and wear an old T-shirt to bed if treating body acne. Always wash your hands thoroughly after application to prevent bleaching towels or clothing.

Allergies to benzoyl peroxide are rare but do occur occasionally. Dry skin does not constitute an allergic reaction. An allergy is characterized by itching, swelling, or burning associated with a rash similar to a mild case of poison ivy dermatitis.

If irritation occurs, rinse the affected area with cool tap water to soothe the skin and reach out to us. We can help you determine if it is an allergy and devise an alternate treatment plan.

Skipping even a day or two—or only spot treating—creates an opportunity for acne to develop. Consistency is key: Stick with your home care treatment plan every day to see and keep your results.

While spot treating can be effective for those who are mildly blemish-prone, those with more severe inflamed acne must use benzoyl peroxide serum over the entire acne-prone area every day. This is what will help prevent future breakouts.

Benzoyl peroxide increases sun sensitivity, so it is vital to add sun protection into your daily routine.