Acne is one of the most common conditions known to the dermatology office and almost everyone in their life has experienced at least one or two blackheads or pimples. Although these “bumps in the road” are typically insignificant in the grand scheme of life, at their time however they can be quite distressing; there are also many individuals whose acne can actually change the course of their life. It is for these distressing moments and the potential social adverse effects that acne is treated.  There are many acne treatment options available ranging from products you can purchase at the store without a prescription, products that require a prescription, and physical treatments that are performed at your local dermatologist’s office. Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication used for the treatment of acne, either alone or in combination with other acne treatment products depending on the severity of one’s acne.

     Benzoyl peroxide can be found at many of your local stores and comes under many product names. It varies in concentration ranging from 2.5% to 10%. Studies have shown that the lesser concentrations perform as well as the stronger concentrations in improving acne, but without the risk for side effects seen with the higher concentrations. Benzoyl peroxide is generally well tolerated and the most common side effects are skin irritation and skin dryness. These side effects are typically prevented, or treated, by the use of a facial moisturizing cream. In some skin types, however, skin irritation can result in an adverse lightening of the skin color or darkening of the skin color. Select individuals may also have an allergy to benzoyl peroxide resulting in a skin rash following usage of the medication. A female who is pregnant or breast feeding should check with their obstetrician prior to using any acne treatment product.  Benzoyl peroxide also has the potential to discolor any clothing or bedding the medication comes in contact with.

     Improvement in one’s acne does not occur overnight and typically takes at least six to eight weeks with regular usage of an acne treatment product. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the usage of benzoyl peroxide, alone, for the treatment of mild acne and in combination with other products for moderate acne. The American Academy of Dermatology lists the following criteria on their website, www.aad.org, as indicators that a person suffering from acne may require evaluation by a health care provider:

        The treatment of acne can be difficult at times and for many reasons. However, with patience and the right medications an individual can go a long way to improving their complexion and possibly their life. Dr. Burns can be reached at 972-335-2727 or visit them on the web at http://www.mydermconsult.com

John Burns, PA-C

Fellowship trained in Dermatology

Dermatology Consultants of Frisco