Do you want to know a secret about Proactiv, an acne skin care product that's heavily promoted on television and endorsed by famous celebrities like Vanessa Williams and Jessica Simpson? The active ingredient in Proactiv is 2.
5% benzoyl peroxide.
Many doctors have prescribed it to their patients years before Proactiv was conceived.
Benzoyl peroxide is also available over the counter or without needing a doctor's written order.
Common brand names include, Benoxyl, Benzac AC, Benzac W, Benzagel, Brevoxyl, Desquam, Fostex, Persa-Gel, Triaz, Vanoxide and Zoderm.
It may come in many forms such as creams, lotions, gels, pads or cleanser bars.
Over the counter benzoyl peroxide is available in 2.
5%, 5% and 10% strengths.
Other non-active ingredients may include Water Aqua, Laureth-4, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose and Disodium EDTA.
Benzoyl peroxide treats mild to moderate acne.
It reduces the bacteria thought to be the cause of acne.
Benzoyl peroxide is applied directly on the acne once to three times a day.
Sometimes the affected skin should be washed with a mild cleanser and pat dry before applying it.
A few of the side effects of using this medication include dryness, peeling, itching, irritation and redness of the skin.
When this occurs, the application should be reduced.
Or, a lower strength of benzoyl peroxide, such as the 2.
5% version could be used.
Noticeable improvement may take up to four weeks of use.
In 8 to 12 weeks, the best results occur.
Generic drugstore brand benzoyl peroxide acne treatment medication, such as "Walgreens Maximum Strength Benzoyl Peroxide Gel," is only $2.
99 for a one ounce tube.
Compare to The Proactiv System which cost $39.
95 for a sixty day supply, buying the benzoyl peroxide over the counter can save you a lot of money.
Copyright © by Leroy J.
Chan