Benzoyl peroxide can be found in over-the-counter and prescription products.If you understand how benzoyl peroxide works, you can decide whether or not it is the right medication for you, and minimize and treat any irritation that occurs as a result of using medications that contain it.
Step 1: Know the uses of this substance.
Benzoyl peroxide is an active ingredient in many over the counter and prescription drugs.Gels, bar soaps, lotions and facial washes are some of the different forms of benzoyl peroxide.Some of the medications are available without a prescription.You should read the active ingredients of the product to find out what strength it has.
Step 2: Know how it works.
Benzoyl peroxide is an exfoliative agent that works to killbacteria and increase skin turnover.Excess oil on the face can be dried with Benzoyl Peroxide.It works to reduce inflammation where it is applied.
Step 3: There are signs of an allergic reaction.
Some people are allergic to benzoyl peroxide.Most people will experience skin irritation, redness, and scaling with the use of benzoyl peroxide, but these side effects should go away with time.You may be experiencing an allergic reaction to the drug if you continue to experience redness and scaling even when using very low concentrations on alternate days.Irritation is very common during the first three weeks of use and should improve after four to six weeks.Sensitivity, peeling, and dryness are possible signs of an allergic reaction.If you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction, including a tightness in the throat, you should call emergency services immediately.
Step 4: Only use as directed.
If you use an over-the-counter product containing benzoyl peroxide, you should follow the instructions on the label.If you got the medication with a prescription, you need to use products directed by a medical professional.
Step 5: Don't expose yourself to other products.
In severe cases of the skin condition, it is common to combine using a combination of drugs.The risk of skin irritation in the area where benzoyl peroxide was applied can be increased if you combine it with other skin care products or expose yourself to excessive sunlight.Make sure to limit your exposure to other irritants so that you can gauge the effectiveness of the benzoyl peroxide products.When you have a genuine allergic reaction, the side effects of combining other skin care products with benzoyl peroxide are similar.
Step 6: To clean skin, apply benzoyl peroxide.
Unless you use a facial wash, wash and dry your skin.
Step 7: It's best to apply in small amounts.
If you want to apply liberally to affected areas, you need to test any products containing benzoyl peroxide in small amounts.Apply a small amount of the product to the affected areas of your skin.If you want to minimize skin irritation, start with the lowest concentration possible.Don't get benzoyl peroxide if you have broken skin, nose, or mouth.Don't apply it to your eyes or lips.Benzoyl peroxide should not come into contact with the nose, mouth or eyes.If you get a substance in your eyes, mouth, or skin, you should flush it with water.
Step 8: The effects of benzoyl peroxide products should be monitored.
If there is a sign of an allergic reaction, apply a small amount of a benzoyl peroxide product to the affected area.Mild, stinging or burning on the first application is expected.The redness of the skin should be reduced by the morning.Use every other night if irritation continues.If you don't experience any negative side effects, you can use the product as directed by the doctor or the packaging.More serious allergic reactions can occur in rare cases.You should stop using the product if you experience excessive swelling and trouble breathing.
Step 9: Continue use.
If you start to experience allergy symptoms after using a product, stop using it immediately.If you have any questions, contact your doctor.
Step 10: If you have leftover product, rinse it with room temperature water.
Once the product is thoroughly washed off of your skin, flush the area.Don't splash the water into your eyes, nose or mouth.Don't use soap on your skin.Don't scrub, rinse and rub your skin.
Step 11: Pat dry.
Rub your skin to dry it can cause more irritation.A soft cloth like a clean T-shirt may be more gentle on your skin than a towel.Cotton balls may leave fibers on your skin.
Step 12: It's a good idea to apply a gentle, all-natural moisturizer.
In most cases, all-natural moisturizers will prevent further irritation of the skin.It is wise to consult a doctor if you have a sensitive skin.Products labeled "sensitive skin" or "no fragrance" have the potential to interact negatively with benzoyl peroxide.A lot of people use virgin coconut oil as a gentle moisturizer.
Step 13: If you want to apply the benzoyl peroxide, don't.
You should consult with your doctor if you are using benzoyl peroxide products on skin that is irritated.
Step 14: Do not use other active ingredients in products.
Many of the active ingredients in the skin care products have the potential to react negatively with benzoyl peroxide.Because of this, do not apply other skin care products to the areas of skin you have been treated with because of the negative side-effects.The active ingredients in skin care products need to be read on the label.Look for products that have peeling agents.They should not be used when using benzoyl peroxide.There are other products that may interact negatively with benzoyl peroxide.You should talk to your medical provider about how you can use other products.It is possible for your doctor to instruct you on how to use both products while avoiding interactions.
Step 15: Don't use benzoyl peroxide products if you want to avoid doubling up.
If you want to avoid using other products containing benzoyl peroxide, you must avoid skin care products that contain alternative active ingredients.If you apply too much benzoyl peroxide to an area, it can cause your skin to react negatively.
Step 16: Sun exposure should be limited.
Wear a broad-spectrum sunblock with a minimum SPF 30 and stay out of the sun as much as possible.To protect your skin, wear a wide-brimmed hat.Don't use tanning beds or sunlamps.Unless directed by your doctor, you shouldn't use benzoyl peroxide if you get a sunburn.The darkening of your skin may be prevented by using a sunblock.
Step 17: Talk to your doctor or nurse practitioners about whether or not it's right for you.
The type of acne you have will affect the treatment.Ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of using the drug.Take a list of any questions you have about alternative therapies to your doctor's visit.
Step 18: Discuss any drugs you are on.
Taking supplements, vitamins, and over-the-counter products could cause a drug interaction.You may want to talk to your doctor about the different forms of this medication, as well as other creams that are prescription or over-the-counter.If you want to minimize the chance of irritation, you should start with the lowest possible concentration.
Step 19: Tell your doctor if you have any skin conditions.
Eczema, dermatitis, broken/bleeding skin, or any other irritation can be included in this.Any broken skin or open wounds will allow Benzoyl peroxide to enter your body.It is possible that Benzoyl Peroxide will make conditions worse.
Step 20: Inform your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction before.
If you have had an allergic reaction to benzoyl peroxide in the past, you should not use it.Don't lose hope because there are other therapies that you could use.Talk to your doctor about the alternatives.
Step 21: Discuss possible interactions with your doctor.
Benzoyl peroxide may come in contact with your skin.If you use shaving cream, ask your doctor if it will make your irritation worse.
Step 22: If you plan to become pregnant or breastfeeding, tell your doctor.
It is important to ask your doctor if it is safe to use benzoyl peroxide during pregnancy or breastfeeding.It's a good idea to consult with your OBGYN as well.
Step 23: While using the product, talk to your doctor or nurse practitioners.
If you have severe side effects or the treatment doesn't work, you might need to stop using the product.The information in this article is written to help you make informed decisions, but it does not substitute for medical advice.
Step 24: You should know what options you have.
One of the most popular treatments for skin problems is Benzoyl Peroxide.Benzoyl peroxide is used for mild to moderate skin problems.Salicylic acid, clindamycin, erythromycin, and tetracycline are some of the treatments that can be prescribed by a doctor.There are a number of medications that can be used to control hormones, such as oral contraceptives or anti-androgen agents for men and women.
Step 25: Look at alternative therapies.
It's not always possible to take the form of oral or topical medications.You might want to look into other treatments.Light therapy, laser treatments, chemical peels, whitehead and blackhead extract and steroid injections are some of the treatments.
Step 26: It is possible to reduce stress.
There is a connection between stress, cortisol, and increased acne, though it is not fully understood.Exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature are positive ways to reduce stress.Stress reduction is a part of your routine.
Step 27: You should adjust your diet.
Some researchers have found that changing your diet can be beneficial.
Step 28: Natural supplements can be used.
Some products, such as zinc and tea tree oil, have been tried as an alternative to traditional treatments for skin problems.
Step 29: Investigate treatments together.
Most dermatologists recommend a combination of treatments for moderate to severe acne.