Health Library

Benzoyl peroxide (On the skin)

Benzoyl Peroxide (BEN-zoe-il per-OX-ide)

Treats acne and other skin conditions. Also treat pimples and red bumps caused by rosacea.

Brand Name(s):

Acne Control Cleanser, Acne Foaming Face Wash, Acne Medication, Acne Medication 10, Acne Medication 5, Acne Treatment, BPO 4% Creamy Wash Complete Pack, BPO 4% Gel, BPO 8% Gel, BPO Foaming Cloths, BPO-10, BPO-5, BenzEFoam, BenzEFoam Ultra, Benzac AC

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Bar, Cream, Foam, Gel/Jelly, Liquid, Lotion, Pad, Soap

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Use this medicine only on your skin. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, lips, mouth, or vagina. Do not use on skin areas that have cuts, scrapes, or sunburn. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine. Make sure your skin is clean and dry before you apply this medicine.
• Apply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
• When you first begin to use this product, prime the pump by pressing down until the first drop of cream is released.
• Avoid getting this medicine in your hair or on colored fabrics. It may bleach your hair or colored fabrics.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: Apply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.
• Throw away any unused cream 30 days after first use.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you ever had an allergic reaction to an acne product, or have other skin problems (including eczema, cuts, or sunburn).
• Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
• This medicine may cause serious skin reactions, including skin irritation or contact dermatitis.
• This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Fainting
• Pain, burning, blistering, changes in color, dryness, itching, peeling, redness, scaling, stinging, or swelling of the skin where the medicine is applied
• Swelling of the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild stinging, itching, redness, or dry skin

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024