Dangers of Benzoyl Peroxide and Alternative Acne Treatments

Benzoyl peroxide is a common ingredient in acne treatments; however, there is some very scary information about it online. After reading some of this information, you may decide to start using a natural skin care routine. I know I did.

The Truth Behind Benzoyl Peroxide

A quick search reveals that it is a possible carcinogen, according to High on Health. It removes the top layer of your skin, which may lead to sunburns if you are out in the sun. It can generate free radicals, which will make your skin age prematurely.

Another interesting fact that convinced me to stay away from benzoyl peroxide is that it used to be classified as a Category 1 medication, which means that is considered safe. In 1995, however, the US Food and Drug Administration changed benzoyl peroxide to a Category 3 medication, which means its safety isn’t known. That change likely came from the reports that link the use of benzoyl peroxide to incidences of skin cancer.

The effects of benzoyl peroxide don’t stop there. Your skin can also suffer if you use benzoyl peroxide. It is a known fact that benzoyl peroxide will dry out your skin. Dry skin can lead to worsening of your acne. Some people may develop a severe form of acne known as cystic acne, which is characterized by large acne lesions deep under the skin. Benzoyl peroxide can also change the color of your skin. In people with dark skin, it may lighten the skin. In people with light skin, it may make the skin turn red.

You Have an Alternative

There is an alternative to treating acne with benzoyl peroxide. Natural acne treatments use items that are readily available in most homes to treat the inflammation associated with acne while helping to heal the acne lesions. Some of the most common natural acne treatments include lemons, baking soda, honey, and cucumbers.

Besides topical treatments, you can also help to control acne from the inside out by eating a healthy diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables help to keep your body functioning properly, which can have a positive impact on your skin. You have to make sure to drink enough water as well. Dehydration can worsen acne.

Taking proper care of your skin is vital if you want to prevent acne. You should rinse your skin off after exercising. If you wear makeup, make sure that you wash it off before going to bed. This gives your pores a chance to get air without makeup obstructing them. Unless you dig ditches at night, there likely isn’t a reason to use soap to wash your face in the morning. You can usually just rinse your face with plain water.

Seek Help if Necessary

If you have severe acne or if you have very sensitive skin, you should seek the help of a dermatologist to determine what treatment plan is right for you. Simply leaving acne alone may allow it to get so bad that you will suffer from permanent scarring.