About Benzoyl Peroxide And Use In Acne Skin Care
Alternatives To Benzoyl Peroxide For Acne Treatment
About Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl Peroxide is commonly used in many over the counter or otc acne treatments you may have heard of including Clearasil, Neutrogena and Proactiv Solution. There is no doubt Benzoyl Peroxide is a harsh chemical because a quick search reveals it is the bleaching agent used in hair dye and in teeth whitening products. It does, however, appear to work for some people with acne problems - some short term successes and other report longer term success.
There are many reviews of benzoyl peroxide acne products, and if you check product or beauty forums you will find both fans and critics - it is hard to know which side wins.
Research on possible side effects reveals a theme of the most common complaints and irritations, ranging from mild to severe. These include to irritations of the skin, dry and flaking skin, allergic reactions, redness if the skin, more acne than before and bleaching of hair and clothing! Often comments include reference to a strong pungent odour from the stronger products when they are put on the skin, something like smelling of bleach. There is also doubt cast over what these harsh chemicals will do with prolonged usage.
What is most surprising is that these harsh chemical based acne treatments don't give fast results. For example the Proactiv Australia website states: "some people see results as early as 3 weeks, but on the average, visible results start within 6-8 weeks" and "...many of our customers find that a complete clearing of their complexion takes anywhere from 3-6 months". [1]
The jury seems to be out on its use in pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is definitely not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
Whilst Benzoyl Peroxide in acne skin care appears to work for some, there are certainly many questions as to the overall safety and potential side effects both long and short term.
Benzoyl Peroxide is certainly not the only treatment for acne. There are alternatives including natural products.
These alternatives are made with natural and not synthetic versions of natural substances, such as alpha hydroxy acid (AHAs) from fruit sugars.
Learn more about our natural chemical free skin care and how it works .
Learn more about Beauty Without Chemicals:
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References:
[1]. http://www.proactiv.com.au/proactiv_au/Page/FAQs/Side+Effects++Allergic+Reactions.aspx#faq_122_242