Quick Comparison
| Benzoyl Peroxide | Benzoyl Peroxide | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Concentration | Concentrations: 2.5%, 5%, 10%. 2.5% is as effective as 10% for most people with significantly less irritation. Apply as a thin layer to acne-prone areas. Short-contact therapy (apply for 5-10 minutes then rinse) reduces irritation while maintaining efficacy. Bleaches fabrics — use white towels and pillowcases. | Concentrations: 2.5%, 5%, 10%. 2.5% is as effective as 10% for most people with significantly less irritation. Apply as a thin layer to acne-prone areas. Short-contact therapy (apply for 5-10 minutes then rinse) reduces irritation while maintaining efficacy. Bleaches fabrics — use white towels and pillowcases. |
| Application | Topical (wash, gel, cream, spot treatment). Short-contact therapy: apply 2.5% for 5-10 minutes, then rinse — reduces irritation while maintaining antibacterial activity. | Topical (wash, gel, cream, spot treatment). Short-contact therapy: apply 2.5% for 5-10 minutes, then rinse — reduces irritation while maintaining antibacterial activity. |
| Research Papers | 9 papers | 9 papers |
| Categories |
Mechanism of Action
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide decomposes on skin, generating benzoic acid and reactive oxygen species (peroxyl and hydroxyl radicals). Cutibacterium acnes is an obligate anaerobe thriving in oxygen-depleted follicles; BPO-derived oxygen creates an aerobic environment while free radicals cause non-specific oxidative damage to bacterial membranes, proteins, and DNA. Because this does not target a specific bacterial pathway (unlike antibiotics), C. acnes cannot develop resistance—BPO remains effective indefinitely. Mild comedolytic activity through oxidative effects on follicular keratin. Anti-inflammatory effects from neutrophil modulation. 2.5% achieves similar bacterial kill to 10% with less irritation.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide decomposes on skin, generating benzoic acid and reactive oxygen species (peroxyl and hydroxyl radicals). Cutibacterium acnes is an obligate anaerobe thriving in oxygen-depleted follicles; BPO-derived oxygen creates an aerobic environment while free radicals cause non-specific oxidative damage to bacterial membranes, proteins, and DNA. Because this does not target a specific bacterial pathway (unlike antibiotics), C. acnes cannot develop resistance—BPO remains effective indefinitely. Mild comedolytic activity through oxidative effects on follicular keratin. Anti-inflammatory effects from neutrophil modulation. 2.5% achieves similar bacterial kill to 10% with less irritation.
Risks & Safety
Benzoyl Peroxide
Common
Dryness, peeling, redness, bleaching of hair, towels, and clothing.
Serious
Allergic contact dermatitis (uncommon but can be severe — patch test first).
Rare
Severe allergic reaction with swelling.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Common
Dryness, peeling, redness, bleaching of hair, towels, and clothing.
Serious
Allergic contact dermatitis (uncommon but can be severe — patch test first).
Rare
Severe allergic reaction with swelling.
Full Profiles
Benzoyl Peroxide →
The most effective OTC acne treatment and one of the few topical treatments that kills acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes) without promoting antibiotic resistance. Benzoyl peroxide works through oxidation — it releases oxygen into pores, creating an environment where anaerobic bacteria cannot survive. It is one of three first-line acne treatments (alongside adapalene and salicylic acid) recommended by dermatological guidelines.
Benzoyl Peroxide →
The most effective OTC acne treatment and one of the few topical treatments that kills acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes) without promoting antibiotic resistance. Benzoyl peroxide works through oxidation — it releases oxygen into pores, creating an environment where anaerobic bacteria cannot survive. It is one of three first-line acne treatments (alongside adapalene and salicylic acid) recommended by dermatological guidelines.