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Benzoyl peroxide is a synthetic medication used as a topical agent for fighting bacteria and unclogging pores. It is one of the longest-used medications to treat acne and fight pimples.
Benzoyl peroxide is often used in acne treatments due to its antimicrobial properties. It also has a drying effect, so it is effective at minimizing oily build-up in the pores. Benzoyl peroxide penetrates deep into the pores of skin and delivers oxygen molecules that loosen any buildup of oil, dirt, or dead skin within the pores. It also kills any bacteria trapped in the pores or on the surface of the skin that could lead to acne or skin infections around minor breaks in the skin.
There aren’t many safety concerns with using benzoyl peroxide. In fact, it is listed as one of the safest and most effective medical ingredients by the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medications. However, when used on the skin, it’s drying effect can cause mild irritation and itching. Some people may discover they are allergic to benzoyl peroxide, so caution is advised when trying a new ingredient on your skin.
A scar can form anywhere the skin is broken deeply enough to damage surrounding skin cells. With acne, most superficial blemishes will heal cleanly, leaving no visible evidence of prior breakouts. However, in the case of cystic acne, when a clogged pore leads to infection that travels deep into the dermis, ruptured cysts can break the follicle wall and cause the infection to damage surrounding skin cells. Collagen helps to repair the damage but leaves the skin more firm and tight than the rest of your skin. Some types of acne scarring leave a concave shape, called a pockmark. Contrary to some belief, not all acne scars are caused by picking or popping your blemishes. Some occur even if the acne is allowed to heal without picking.
To prevent sun damage from making acne scars more visible, it’s best to moisturize daily and wear sunscreen. Additionally, antioxidants protect the skin from free radicals that damage cells and speed up aging. Ingredients and nutrients like acai oil, alpha-lipoic acid, green tea extract, retinol/vitamin A, coenzyme Q10, caffeine, alpha-hydroxy acid and salicylic acid are all beneficial for preventing and reducing acne scarring. Jojoba oil is also good for reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria, and keeping in moisture for healthier skin.
benzoyl peroxide may be effective for acne scars, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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