Benzoyl peroxide is a topical solution for treating mild to moderate acne. It also can be an effective adjunct therapy to other topical medications or oral antibiotics in more severe cases of acne, according to Drugs.com 1. Benzoyl peroxide is available over the counter and also in prescription medications 1. Products containing benzoyl peroxide come in many forms including creams, gels, lotions, soaps and pads. Some characteristics of benzoyl peroxide explain its benefits for people with acne.

Decreases Oil Production

Benzoyl peroxide may decrease the skin's oil production, as noted by eMedTV. Overactive oil glands contribute to acne, because excess oil plugs pores, or hair follicles, and also prevents dead skin cells from sloughing away. A build-up of dead cells further clogs and irritates pores. Blocked pores turn into blackheads or whiteheads, and these can turn into the swollen red pus-filled bumps known as pimples. They also can develop into large painful cysts or nodules under the skin that can cause scarring.

Antibiotic Properties

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Benzoyl peroxide is a topical antibiotic and kills Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes, the bacteria that causes acne and also results in inflammation. P. acnes is anaerobic, meaning it cannot survive in an oxygenated environment. Benzoyl peroxide is an oxidizing agent, and applying this substance moves oxygen into clogged pores and eliminates anaerobic bacteria, explains Drugs.com 3. Benzoyl peroxide is more effective at eliminating this bacteria than other topical solutions, including resorcinol, salicylic acid and sulfur, according to eMedTV. Some acne treatment products and systems combine benzoyl peroxide with one or more of these ingredients to increase effectiveness.

Mild Side Effects

Benzoyl peroxide is not associated with any major side effects. Because the substance reduces oil production, dry skin as a side effect is common. This is usually mild, according to the New Zealand Dermatological Society, and can be treated with a non-oily moisturizer 4. If skin irritation occurs, it is rarely severe. While benzoyl peroxide decreases skin bacteria, it does not cause bacterial resistance as oral antibiotics do. Additionally, benzoyl peroxide can reduce bacterial resistance that has developed due to taking oral antibiotics as acne therapy.