Benzoyl peroxide is the active ingredient found in a large number of both over-the-counter acne treatments and prescription treatments. It has been on the market for a number of years now. It is most effective in the treatment of mild to moderate forms of acne. Name brands such as Clearasil and ProActiv utilize benzoyl peroxide as a main ingredient. The good thing about benzoyl peroxide is that is an inexpensive form of acne treatment. It will also be a product that is often tried first before moving on to other forms of treatment.

Bacteria (sebum) accumulate in pores that have become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. The bacteria grow because the pore has become closed and oxygen has been reduced. Benzoyl peroxide helps to open up the pores more and introduces more oxygen into the pore. Oxygen helps to kill off bacteria. The dead skin cells and dead bacteria become dry and easy to remove so pores will remain open and clear.

It should be noted that benzoyl peroxide is not a spot topical treatment. You should use it on all of your face no matter how it is applied. You can use a cleanser, gel, or lotion. Another important point to remember is that you will want to continue use even after your skin clears up so that all the buildup does not immediately return.

There are many dosage levels of benzoyl peroxide acne treatments. Because there is a chance of skin irritation, you should start with a lower dosage level to see if it works. If you see no improvement, then you can increase the dosage levels over time. As with all treatments, you do have to give a reasonable amount of time for the product to work. You may want to wait a few weeks before increasing the dosage.

One slight negative aspect of benzoyl peroxide acne treatment is the bleaching effect that it has. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach your hair, clothing, and bedding. If applied as a lotion, be sure to allow the lotion to completely dry before putting on clothes or going to bed.

Possible side effects of benzoyl peroxide acne treatment include some dryness and flaking of the skin. Some people have experienced increased redness and even some burning sensations. If you do experience extreme skin peeling or redness; uncomfortable burning or swelling; or, the appearance of a rash, you should stop using benzoyl peroxide and consult your dermatologist.

Benzoyl peroxide acne treatment is a great place to start when dealing with a breakout of acne. You should avoid the temptation to over-apply benzoyl peroxide because of the possible side effects that have been mentioned. Simple dryness and flaking of skin can be combated by using a noncomedogenic moisturizer. Be sure and do not use too much of the moisturizer or else you will simply counteract the benefits you have obtained from using benzoyl peroxide.

It is true that not all products work for everyone. That being said, the best place to start an acne treatment regimen is with something that has worked for millions. Benzoyl peroxide is just such an ingredient.