3 Tips For Preventing Extreme Dryness When Using Acne Products That Contain Benzoyl Peroxide

Posted on: 11 November 2015

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Benzoyl peroxide is a popular ingredient that is used in acne medications. It is applied topically, and when done correctly the skin will dry and peel. This reaction is due to the fact that the peroxide is killing off the bacteria in the skin that causes acne. However, extreme dryness can often result in a burning sensation. The extreme dryness and burning typically go away once the product is no longer being used, but they can lead to discomfort if you have to use it regularly. Therefore, there are a few tips you can use to alleviate the dryness and the discomfort that comes with using benzoyl peroxide.

Apply Moisturizer Beforehand

A standard moisturizer is great for keeping the skin from drying out. Moisturizers deposit moisture into the skin and act as a barrier between external elements like cold and hot temperatures. Therefore, a moisturizer can be used as a barrier from benzoyl peroxide products. The peroxide will still be able to penetrate your skin, but it will not be as harsh as it would if you applied the product to bare skin. Since the moisturizer acts as a buffer between the skin and the acne product, this may prevent the product from working as well.

Apply a Small Amount

The easiest way to prevent dryness from products that contain benzoyl peroxide is by determining how much your skin can handle. This can be done by applying a small amount and increasing the dosage after each session. Once you get to an amount that causes your skin to dry out, you can scale back the amount. This technique is especially effective if you have sensitive skin. Applying too much of the product can be too harsh for your skin.

Start off Using it A Few Times a Week

Daily use of a product that contains benzoyl peroxide can lead to extremely dry skin. A negative reaction to this dry skin can actually be more acne. As a result, in order to keep your skin from drying out, start off by using it only a few times a week. If your skin is able to handle this you can add more days. During this time, you will be able to see what gives your skin the best results.

Getting rid of acne is always difficult to deal with. Products that contain benzoyl peroxide can be the solution to chronic acne; however, they need to be handled with care. Therefore, use these tips to avoid extreme dryness. Contact a center like East Carolina Dermatology and Skin Surgery, PLLC for professional help.