Health & Fitness

Is benzoyl peroxide safe for acne? What you need to know

By Leslie Baumann, M.D. Special to the Miami Herald
Q: I’m dealing with hormonal acne. What’s the best way to clear it up?. “I’m a big fan of topical probiotics for hormonal acne—they’re a game changer! They calm redness, strengthen the skin barrier and target acne-causing bacteria for a clearer complexion. A probiotic mist, such as BIOJUVE Activating Mist, is easy to use. Just spritz it on twice a day before moisturizing,” explains Dr. Day. “In the mornings, I like to add a retinol to gently exfoliate the skin and keep pores clear. Acne-specific options, such as La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Topical Retinoid Acne Treatment, work well. The key? Consistency! Stick with it and you’ll see results.”
Q: I’m dealing with hormonal acne. What’s the best way to clear it up?. “I’m a big fan of topical probiotics for hormonal acne—they’re a game changer! They calm redness, strengthen the skin barrier and target acne-causing bacteria for a clearer complexion. A probiotic mist, such as BIOJUVE Activating Mist, is easy to use. Just spritz it on twice a day before moisturizing,” explains Dr. Day. “In the mornings, I like to add a retinol to gently exfoliate the skin and keep pores clear. Acne-specific options, such as La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Topical Retinoid Acne Treatment, work well. The key? Consistency! Stick with it and you’ll see results.” Ekaterina Demidova Ekaterina Demidova/Getty

Benzoyl peroxide (BP) has long been a go-to acne treatment, but recent findings have raised concerns about its safety. A report from Valisure, an independent testing laboratory, suggests that benzoyl peroxide may degrade into benzene, a known carcinogen, under certain conditions. This has sparked concern among dermatologists and consumers alike, prompting many to question whether or not benzoyl peroxide in skin care is safe. Here’s what you need to know.

The dangers of benzene

Benzene is a highly toxic chemical that is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Long-term exposure, even in small amounts, can have harmful effects on human health.

If benzoyl peroxide products break down into benzene, this raises significant safety concerns, especially for those using BP daily as part of their acne treatment routine. While research is still ongoing, it is important to talk to your dermatologist about any concerns you have around your acne treatment products, as well as discuss alternatives to use in the meantime.

What to use instead of benzoyl peroxide

If you are struggling with acne, benzoyl peroxide is not the only treatment option you have. Below are my recommendations:

▪ Know which of the 16 skin types you are. Some skin types, including the eight dry types, should not use benzoyl peroxide anyway, because this ingredient can worsen dryness.

▪ If you do choose to use BP, use a wash-off version, like a cleanser. That way, it does not remain on your skin.

▪ Talk to your dermatologist about switching to a retinoid like adapalene, tretinoin, trifarotene and tazarotene. These medications can help to prevent and clear acne, making them effective alternatives to BP.

Bottom line

While benzoyl peroxide remains an effective acne treatment, its potential to form benzene raises concerns. More research is needed to determine which specific ingredient interactions and manufacturing and storage concerns may pose the greatest risk. In the meantime, if you would like to switch to a different product for acne, talk to your dermatologist about starting a retinoid, which can be suitable for both dry and oily types when gradually introduced to the skin.

I’m still on sabbatical and no longer run Baumann Cosmetic Institute, so please follow @SkinTypeSolutions on social media, or visit LeslieBaumannMD.com if you have questions.

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