Does Benzoyl Peroxide Help With Acne Scars?

Does Benzoyl Peroxide Help With Acne Scars?

 

 

   NO! Benzoyl peroxide belongs to BHA and is primarily used to treat acne by reducing bacteria and inflammation. While it can help reduce the appearance of active acne, it is not effective in removing acne scars. Almost all dermatologists love it and prescribe it to patients with acne and other problems. It kills bacteria by releasing free radical oxygen species. There is no bacterial resistance with benzoyl peroxide. This is the reason why in acne, we encourage the use of benzoyl peroxide antibiotic combination rather than antibiotic alone. 

   Scar treatment options may include procedures such as laser therapy or microdermabrasion, and topical products containing ingredients like vitamin C or retinoids. It is recommended to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best scar treatment plan for your specific needs. A little detail of this is given below after discussing other uses of benzoyl peroxide.

Benzoyl peroxide is available in 2.5%, 4%, 5%, and 10% strength in gels, creams, lotions, and washes.

Uses:

Whiteheads and active acne It helps in reducing whiteheads due to its keratolytic effects. It is helpful in active acne as well due to its antibacterial properties. How to use: use 2.5% gel twice a day for only one hour

1)Armpit odor

 Bacterial overgrowth Is the cause of bad-smelling armpits. Using benzoyl peroxide soap while bathing helps in reducing odor. Apply the soap and leave it on for 5 mins before washing it off.

2) Smelling feet:

 Pitted keratolysis is a common condition that can give a bad odor to feet. Using benzoyl peroxide soaks for 10 minutes helps in improving the condition.

3) Buttock acne

Benzoyl peroxide washes can help in improving active acne in the buttocks. Do not use it for dark spots as it won't help in improving the spots once acne has resolved.

4) Back acne

Active acne on the back also improves with benzoyl peroxide soaps or washes. Short contact 5 % gel also helps if applied over a small area.

5) Razor bumps

 Red bumps in the beard area are common in those who close shave or do reverse shaving. Using benzoyl peroxide in the beard area twice a day helps in reducing the bumps.

Side effects:

It totally depends upon the concentration and frequency of its use and whether you are sensitive to it or not. If your skin is very sensitive then this ingredient is not for you. Its side effects are

 1) Bleaching effect:

2) It can bleach colored clothes and bed sheets.

3) Redness and irritation may occur. Short contact therapy can be used for people who cannot tolerate it.

4) Do not use it if damaged the skin barrier, is irritated, or very dry skin.

5) The use of topical benzoyl peroxide has not been studied during breastfeeding. Because only about 5% is absorbed following topical application, it is considered a low risk to the nursing infant.

Effective treatment of scars:

1)Vitamin C:

  It is an antioxidant and helps lighten skin. It also fights free radicals and keeps the skin younger looking. In the long run, its use overnight helps to reduce acne scars because it causes a little exfoliation of the skin.

2)Retinoids:

The most well-known and researched ingredient in skincare products. It is mainly used as an anti-wrinkling, anti-aging, and antioxidant and to remove pimple marks and scars. It increases cell turnover and increases collagen production.

3)Microdermabrasion:

A procedure performed in the clinic. Microneedles cause new minute injuries to the skin after which the patient's own plasma is applied to the injured skin to heal the scars and marks.

4)CO2 Laser resurfacing:

A fractionated co2 laser removes the upper layer of the skin and the lower layer thus coming upwards. The cell turnover is increased and scars are gone in a few sessions depending upon the skills of the dermatologist and the availability of the instrument.

  If you want to know about acne treatment here is the link.

https://doctorlyadvise.blogspot.com/2023/04/achieving-clear-skin-effective-acne.html