What percentage of benzoyl peroxide is best?

When selecting a benzoyl peroxide product, you may want to start with a 2.5 percent concentration, as it causes less drying and irritation, and then move to a 5 percent concentration if you see minimal results after six weeks.

Can 10% benzoyl peroxide make acne worse?

“Even at low levels, benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and opens pores,” says Dr. Zeichner. In fact, studies show that high amounts of benzoyl peroxide (the most available is 10 percent) are more irritating but no more effective than their lower-concentrated counterparts.

What is the maximum of benzoyl peroxide?

Our best-selling acne spot treatment with maximum-strength 10% benzoyl peroxide. The topical gel quickly goes to work by releasing benzoyl peroxide deep in pores where pimples begin to effectively treat breakouts and help prevent them from occurring in the future. A classic for a reason.

Which is better benzoyl peroxide 2.5 or 5?

The 2.5% benzoyl peroxide formulation was more effective than its vehicle and equivalent to the 5% and 10% concentrations in reducing the number of inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules).

Is 10% benzoyl peroxide more effective?

Does the percentage of benzoyl peroxide matter?

Interestingly, both Krant and Garshick maintain that benzoyl peroxide is just as effective in treating acne at 2.5% and 5% as it is at 10%. The difference, both dermatologists say, is that the higher percentages run the risk of irritating or drying out the skin too much.

Can benzoyl peroxide make pimple worse?

During the first 3 weeks you are using benzoyl peroxide, your skin may become irritated. Also, your acne may seem to get worse before it gets better. If your skin problem has not improved within 4 to 6 weeks, check with your doctor.

How long does it take for skin to adjust to benzoyl peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide, like all treatments, takes time to work. You may need to wait eight to 10 weeks, sometimes a bit more before seeing a noticeable improvement in your skin. As tempting as it may be, don’t slather on more medication, or apply more often than directed.