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 or moisturizer around the eyes as the benzoyl peroxide will migrate through the cream and cause irritation and possible swelling.

Allow benzoyl peroxide to dry completely before going to bed. If your eyelids get irritated, try changing your pillowcase more often. When wearing Acne Med at night, it will transfer to the pillowcase.

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 put a very thin layer of Rhonda Allison ProSalve on this area to protect it for a few days and 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 will bleach fabric, so we suggest using white towels and linens when using your Acne Med. We also recommend wearing an old t-shirt to bed if you are using Acne Med on the body. Additionally, make sure to thoroughly wash your hands following each application to avoid bleaching towels.

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 you are experiencing unusual irritation or an allergic reaction occurs, stop using Acne Med and contact us immediately.

If you choose to skip a day or two or only spot treat, this break in your treatment gives a chance for acne to form. You will not achieve clear skin if you skip your home care treatment plan.

While spot treating can be effective for those who are mildly blemish-prone, those with 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.