Benzoyl Peroxide gel (generic Acnecide)

How is Benzoyl Peroxide gel applied?

After washing the affected area with warm water and a mild cleanser, apply a thin layer of the gel each evening, or twice a day if you have been advised to do so.

How does Benzoyl Peroxide gel work?

Acne is often caused by a build-up of oil in the pores causing the pores to become blocked. Benzoyl Peroxide gel (often branded Acnecide) helps to reduce the production of this oil and works by breaking down keratin in the skin structure. This in turn breaks down blackheads and whiteheads, unblocking acne-causing pores and shedding dead cells from the skin surface.

Benzoyl Peroxide gel also works by killing the bacteria that cause acne, so it can therefore help prevent future acne flare ups and reduce inflammation to the affected area.

Is Benzoyl Peroxide gel effective?

It can sometimes take up to 4 weeks to see an improvement in your skin, so it is important to continue the treatment and monitor your progress. Trying the acne treatment for 12 weeks will help you to determine if it has made a real difference to your acne.

As the gel can dry out the affected area, if you have sensitive skin it may be best to apply the gel only at night. It may also be worth altering the number of times you apply to once every other day until your skin adjusts.

Are there any side effects of Benzoyl Peroxide gel?

Like many medications some patients may experience side effects with Benzoyl Peroxide gel. The most common side effects are a mild burning sensation, dryness, redness and peeling of the treated areas of skin. It is also worth noting the gel may also bleach the hair (as well as towels and bed linen).

The treatment is also likely to increase sensitivity to sunlight, sunbeds or sunlamps, it is important to use a suitable factor sunscreen. 

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet.

Is it safe to apply Benzoyl Peroxide gel during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

You should not use Benzoyl Peroxide gel while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Will Benzoyl Peroxide gel react with other medication?

Any product that contains tretinoin, isotretinoin or tazarotene should not be used at the same time as Benzoyl Peroxide gel, they may decrease effectiveness and increase irritation. If you are using a combination of topical treatments, one should be applied in the morning and one in the evening.

Any other topical acne treatments, cosmetics or toiletries, particularly those with high concentrations of alcohol or astringents, should be avoided while using Benzoyl Peroxide gel. The interactions between these and Benzoyl Peroxide gel may increase the likelihood of dryness, peeling or irritation to the affected area.

Alternative treatments for acne

There are a variety of other acne treatments that can be taken, including a range of other acne creams, as well as combination packages of oral antibiotics and gels or creams. Some women may also be prescribed Co-cyprindiol (often branded Dianette or Clairette), a contraceptive pill to treat their acne.

Reordering Benzoyl Peroxide gel

We will contact you through your Patient Record 6 weeks from your order to see how you are getting on with the medication. We may ask for some photos at this time as well to assess the response to treatment. It will also be an opportunity for you to give us feedback on your acne. To reorder Benzoyl Peroxide, go to your Patient Record and select ‘reorder’. You will be required to fill in the online questionnaire each time you reorder.