Benzoyl peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial acne treatment sold in over-the-counter creams and washes.
- Used in
- Cosmetic ingredient (INCI)
- Role
- Active
Also listed as
Contains / relevant to
- Eczema / atopic dermatitis: Ingredients frequently reported as irritating to a compromised barrier.
- Rosacea: Ingredients frequently reported as triggering flushing or stinging.
- Sensitive: Ingredients with a higher reported sting rate.
- Dry: Ingredients that can add to a stripped feeling.
What to look for on labels
- Cosmetic ingredient lists use INCI names, in descending order of concentration down to 1 %; ingredients below 1 % can follow in any order.
Related
- Salicylic acid (BHA)Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates inside pores.
- RetinolRetinol is a form of vitamin A used in skin care for skin renewal.
- How to read cosmetic INCI lists for sensitive skinGuide
Sources
Regulated as an OTC acne drug in the US with mandated warnings.
- US 21 CFR Part 333 (OTC acne drug products)
- IngrediLens ingredient database (names, flags and notes shown on this page)
Label information, not medical advice. This page describes how an ingredient is named and labelled and how IngrediLens flags it; it cannot tell you whether a product is safe for you. Always read the label on the product itself and follow the advice of your doctor, allergist or dermatologist. If someone shows signs of anaphylaxis, use their adrenaline auto-injector if they have one and call emergency services.
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