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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Water
Roles: Solvent
Water is a great solvent. It’s neutral and doesn’t provide any strong positive or negative effects. It just helps components to mix better and to transport active components.
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Polyacrylamide
Roles: Antistatic, Binding, Film former, Hair fixative
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.
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Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Esters
Roles: Skin conditioning, Emollient, Moisturising
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Sodium Glycolate
Roles: Buffering
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Carbomer
Roles: Emulsion stabilizer, Gel forming, Viscosity controlling
Moisturizing
Carbomer is used for formulation purposes. It helps to control the viscosity and flow of a product. It’s considered safe but only if it’s well purified. Poorly purified carbomers may contain benzol which may lead to irritation.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a pH 4.5-5.5 liquid that is used to improve the overall efficiency of the formulation. It’s usually combined with different surfactants and is used because of its cleansing efficiency. It helps to remove sebum and dirt from the skin and hair. It also works as a foaming agent helping to make a pleasant foam.
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Laureth-7
Roles: Emulsifying, Surfactant
Cleansing
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Sodium Chloride
Roles: Flavoring, Viscosity controlling
Antiseptic
Sodium Chloride is a very famous ingredeint also known as Salt. Yes, it’s the same salt you can find on your table. In cosmetics, it is used as a preservative helping the product to live longer. It is also used as a peeling agent in different scrubs. Human contact with this element since ancient times and that's why it is 100% safe.
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Sodium Citrate
Roles: Buffering, Chelating, Masking
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).
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Sodium Hydroxide
Roles: Buffering
Sodium Hydroxide is used mostly for formulation purposes. It helps to hold the pH level of a product. It also works as a chemical exfoliator that removes dead cells. Usually concentration of this component is low in skin care products and it’s used mostly for adjusting pH.
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Propanediol
Roles: Solvent, Viscosity controlling
Moisturizing
Hair conditioning
Propanediol is a good solvent, emollient and humectant. It helps to moisturize the skin and prevent moisture loss. In haircare products, it conditions hair and improves absorption of the product.
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Ethylhexylglycerin
Roles: Skin conditioning, Deodorant
Moisturizing
Softening
Antiseptic
Deodorant
Ethylhexylglycerin makes the skin softer, smoother and more hydrated. It acts deeply but without any heavy or sticky feeling. In haircare products, it works as a conditioner and scalp cleanser. It is safe but only in concentration below 8% in rinse-off products and below 2% in leave-on products. Can be an irritator in higher concentrations. In general, this component is great if you see it somewhere at the bottom of the list.
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Phenoxyethanol
Roles: Fragrance, Preservative
Antiseptic
Phenoxyethanol is one of the most popular preservatives. It kills bacteria and makes the product live longer. Manufacturers like this ingredient because it can dissolve in any liquid, even in oils.
Another purpose of this component is the fixation of aromas in perfumery. Phenoxyethanol is also used as a strong antiseptic and a good antibacterial agent. It is widely used in dermatological cosmetics alongside natural antiseptics such as chamomile, sage, and calendula.
