NeutrogenaRapid Clear Stubborn Acne CleanserIngredients

Benzoyl peroxide is a well-known and widely used topical medication in skincare, particularly favored for its effectiveness in treating acne. Here are several key aspects of benzoyl peroxide in skincare:

1. Antibacterial Properties: Benzoyl peroxide is highly effective against Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes), the bacteria that contribute to acne. It works by introducing oxygen into the pores, where this bacteria thrives, as it cannot live in an oxygen-rich environment. This reduces the bacterial count on the skin, thereby decreasing acne outbreaks.

2. Keratolytic Action: It helps to break down keratin, a protein that forms part of the skin structure. This action helps to unclog pores by clearing dead skin cells, excess oil, and other debris that can lead to acne.

3. Comedolytic Effect: Benzoyl peroxide is effective in preventing the formation of comedones (acne lesions), which include both blackheads and whiteheads. This is accomplished through its ability to decrease the cohesiveness of the epithelial cells lining the hair follicles, preventing them from clogging.

4. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Benzoyl peroxide reduces the inflammation associated with acne. It can help lessen the redness and swelling of active acne, providing a more immediate cosmetic benefit while the treatment works to clear the acne long-term.

5. Concentration Variations: It is available in various concentrations, typically ranging from 2.5% to 10%. Lower concentrations are just as effective as higher concentrations but tend to be less irritating to the skin. Choosing the right concentration and formulation (such as lotions, gels, creams, or wash-off products) depends on skin sensitivity and the severity of acne.

6. Potential Side Effects: Common side effects include dryness, redness, peeling, and irritation, particularly when first using the product or if used in higher concentrations. It's important for users to start with lower concentrations and gradually increase as needed, and to always use moisturizers and sun protection to help manage these side effects.

7. Use in Combination Therapies: Often, benzoyl peroxide is used in combination with other acne treatments, such as retinoids or antibiotics, to enhance efficacy and reduce the potential for antibiotic resistance when used with antibacterial agents.

When incorporating benzoyl peroxide into a skincare regimen, it's crucial for users to apply it only to clean, dry skin and to follow application with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to counteract potential drying effects. Furthermore, because benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics, users should be cautious with contact between the medication and clothing, towels, or bedding.

Benzyl Alcohol doesn’t belong to harmful alcohols and it will not dry your skin. It’s a stabilizing agent that prevents ingredients oxidization. Having this component in formulation the product will keep efficiency for a longer time. Benzyl Alcohol has a slight almond odor and is used as a fragrance ingredient very often.

Citric Acid is one of the AHAs and it is a super useful component! It’s a great antioxidant. It acts as a soft peeling that removes dead cells and kills bacteria. It becomes even more effective if used with other cosmetic acids. Combined formulations are more active, but can irritate sensitive skin if used too often. The component can also whiten the skin and remove dark areas.

It can be an irritator due to its naturally lower pH level of 2.2. But manufacturers also use it as a pH adjuster so in most cases you will not have any issues.

Disodium EDTA is an emulsion stabilizer and chelating agent. It deactivates the metal ions preventing them from reacting with other active ingredients. It improves the stability of a cosmetic formula and keeps the product’s consistency, texture, and pH unchanged. It doesn’t have any skincare effects and is used for formulation purposes only.

Glycerin is one of the most outstanding and helpful skincare components. It's used in many skincare products because it works and provides notable results. It's one of the best moisturizers. Molecules of Glycerin can absorb water and deliver it into deep layers of the skin making it hydrated.

Fragrance is a mix of chemical ingredients (usually 20-30 chemicals but up to 200 sometimes) that help the product to smell better. It can hide many bad things. Synthetic fragrances may contain many different chemicals, but manufacturers don’t want to reveal each of them for some reason and hide them behind the word "Fragrance".

Sodium Citrate is a water-soluble soft organic surfactant with strong stabilizing and conditioning effects. It helps to produce foam and lowers the negative impact of hard water on your skin and hair. It also helps to regulate the pH level of the product. It’s a natural ingredient and it’s safe for most people. It’s used in food (additive number E331).