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Home » Topics A–Z » Benzoyl peroxide
Author: Dr Amanda Oakley MBChB FRACP, Dept of Dermatology Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand, 1999.
Benzoyl peroxide is a commonly used topical treatment for mild acne. It is safe for adults and children and can be used in pregnancy.
Benzoyl peroxide has the following properties:
Benzoyl peroxide is available as cream, gel, lotion and washes at concentrations of 2.5 %, 5 % and 10 %. It may be combined with other topical or oral therapy. It is especially valuable in combination with topical or oral antibiotics as it may reduce the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
In New Zealand, products containing benzoyl peroxide are available without a prescription. They include:
Benzoyl peroxide is also available on prescription in combination with other active agents.
Edwards T, Cardwell L, Patel N, Feldman SR, Title: Benzoyl Peroxide Gel Stains Synthetic Fabrics less than Cotton, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2018), doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.05.008.
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