At the first sign of a pimple, our reaction is to pile on the lotions and potions to try to make it disappear. Have you ever reached for the hydrogen peroxide to spot treat acne? If you have, you’re onto something. But commonly used acne products can be filled with chemicals that may do more harm than good. Take benzoyl peroxide, for example, a chemical found in many acne-fighting products. This powerful ingredient helps kill bacteria but in doing so, it also irritates and dehydrates our skin.
There’s no denying it.
People who suffer with acne often have very sensitive skin. And, after years of using benzoyl peroxide, some acne-prone people are even more sensitive to it. While salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are effective treatments for a lot of acne-prone skin, they don’t always work for everyone. Or maybe these acids are too drying for your skin or conflict with other active ingredients in your everyday routine such as retinol.
Benzoyl peroxide is one of a few superhero ingredients in the war on acne, so what do you do if you are allergic or sensitive to it?
Do not fret…
The good news is that there are natural alternatives to these popular pimple-banishing chemicals that can work wonders on skin, without having serious side-effects on your health or the environment.
What Is Benzoyl Peroxide?
For skin issues and acne treatments, Benzoyl Peroxide has become a go-to for many and a quick recommendation from many dermatologists to treat breakouts. And it is often found in the most popular prescription-strength retinoids. And, listen, we are a fan of this acne-fighting superhero too. But some of our clients just can’t be exposed to it.
In a less complicated explanation, it works by releasing oxygen when it comes into contact with the skin, oxygenating bacteria and killing it off while preventing acne-causing bacteria from repopulating. Yet, this effectiveness comes with caveats.
What are the Side-Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide?
Though Benzoyl Peroxide is quick and mostly effective at battling acne of different types and severity, it also has some not-so-nice side effects. Many of the side effects from treating acne with Benzoyl Peroxide include inflammation, severely dry skin, peeling and flaking. So essentially, while you are attempting to conquer one skin issue, you are causing a whole new one. Or many. And that doesn’t work for us, does it?
Because it can be harsh, especially with sensitive skin, many give up the treatment and acne returns in force.
Luckily, we have a phenomenal and effective skincare treatment to utilize if you want to avoid the potentially harsh side effects of Benzoyl Peroxide to fight acne better, naturally.
Hydrogen Peroxide VS Benzoyl Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is known for improving the skin’s vitality and oxygenating the skin. Peroxide loses its extra oxygen atom when applied to the skin. This oxidization process creates an unfavorable environment for the bacteria that cause acne, killing them and giving your skin a chance to heal.
Hydrogen peroxide is water (H2O) with an extra oxygen molecule (H2O2). When that extra oxygen molecule oxidizes, the solution is able to decongest and purify clogged pores.
The properties of hydrogen peroxide have disinfectant, antiviral and antibacterial abilities that also work as a peeling agent. This exfoliates your skin, exposing newer and healthier skin.
Beach Beauty Bar’s Hydrogen Peroxide – Wipe Out 02
We have a solution for those who are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide.
Wipe Out O2 is an incredible lightweight cream that can be used morning and night. It’s great for sensitive skin, very mild acne-prone skin and for pregnant women.
This lotion gently exfoliates, detoxifies and removes impurities, leaving your skin smooth, clear and bright, while reducing oil production and killing bacteria to help clear breakouts. The active ingredient, Hydrogen Peroxide, is an effective alternative for those who cannot use Benzoyl Peroxide.
A Final Note
Benzoyl peroxide is undoubtedly one of the most beneficial and inexpensive acne treatments around. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s skin is different. What may work for some might not work for others.
If you’re curious about what skincare products you should be using for your skin, schedule a consultation today and let us help you get your skin healthy and glowing just in time for the new year.
Cheers to clear!
Rene