Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication primarily used to treat acne by reducing bacteria on the skin and helping to unclog pores. It is available in various strengths and formulations and can be used alone or in combination with other acne treatments.
Benzoyl peroxide is an over-the-counter and prescription topical acne treatment that kills bacteria and helps clear clogged pores.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D10AE01
- RxNorm
- 19400
- Generic
- Benzoyl Peroxide
- Class
- atc-d10
- Brands
- Fostex, Relovox, Benzamycin, Clenziderm Lotion, Myhelper, Benzepro, Effaclar Duo, Phisoderm Clear Confidence Spot Treatment, Clear Proof Acne Treatment, Neuac, Anti Bac, Onexton, Acne-Clear, Benzac, Clearplex
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 0
- Duration (h)
- 0
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- gel, cream, lotion, cleanser, foam, pad, bar
- Regions
- United States, Canada, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan
- Monitoring
- local skin irritation, dryness, allergic contact dermatitis
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 5% benzoyl peroxide applied once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 2.5% benzoyl peroxide applied once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5% benzoyl peroxide applied once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteruse lowest effective concentration
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks; topical use only
regular prenatal checkups
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective concentration
use only if clearly needed; prefer lower concentrations
routine prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteruse lowest effective concentration
discontinue use near delivery if possible
routine prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed for topical use
avoid applying to breast area; wash hands thoroughly before nursing
monitor infant for skin irritation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
under 12 yearsuse lower concentration (2.5% preferred)
use under pediatric supervision; avoid on broken skin
monitor for skin irritation and dryness
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
adolescents 12 17 yearsstandard dosing
start with lower concentrations; common age group for acne treatment
monitor for skin tolerance
geriatric
elderlystandard dosing
use with caution on sensitive or thin skin
monitor for skin dryness and irritation
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
topical use has minimal systemic absorption
standard monitoring
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
topical use has minimal systemic absorption
standard monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information for topical acne treatment
Drug class
Drug class information for Benzoyl Peroxide
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses for Benzoyl Peroxide
Mechanism of action
How Benzoyl Peroxide works
Benzoyl peroxide is used to treat mild to moderate acne vulgaris, including inflammatory acne (papules and pustules) and non-inflammatory acne (blackheads and whiteheads). It may also be used as part of combination therapy for more severe acne cases.
Benzoyl peroxide works primarily as an antibacterial agent by releasing oxygen into the skin, which kills Cutibacterium acnes bacteria. It also has mild keratolytic properties, helping to shed dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Benzoyl peroxide can cause skin dryness, redness, and peeling, especially when first starting treatment. It may bleach hair and fabrics. Start with lower concentrations and gradually increase as tolerated. Sun exposure should be minimized, and sunscreen is recommended during use.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy