If you’re grappling with the relentless battle against acne, you’re certainly not alone. Staggeringly, statistics show that around 8 out of every 10 people between the ages of 12 and 24 experience the problem in some form. Among the array of treatments available, 10 percent benzoyl peroxide (BP) stands out as a highly effective option.
However, the question remains: is a 10% strength going to be too strong for your complexion? Sure, it is designed to tackle the more severe forms of acne, but will it be too much for you? In this article, we aim to help you make an informed decision.
What to Look Out For When Considering 10 Percent Benzoyl Peroxide
As most acne sufferers are aware, benzoyl peroxide is a treatment that works by killing bacteria, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation. It’s available online and at drug stores in various formulations and strengths, which usually range from 2.5% to 4% to 10 percent benzoyl peroxide.
If you’re trying to work out if it’s the strongest type that’s going to be suitable for your skin here are a few things you need to look out for.
Would you say your acne is moderate to severe?
If you’re dealing with persistent, widespread acne breakouts, especially the more inflammatory types like pustules and cysts, a higher concentration, like 10%, might be more effective. If your acne is less frequent and only includes blackheads and whiteheads, it’s likely going to be too strong.
Is your current acne wash not improving things?
If you’ve been trying lower concentrations (2.5% or 4%) without significant improvement, your best option is going to be stepping up to a 10% concentration. You shouldn’t be getting adverse reactions from your acne wash, but you should see results, even if they’re gradual.
Is some or all of your acne on your body?
The skin on your face is much thinner than it is on your body, which is why you have to be so careful with the acne products you use. However, for acne on the body, such as on the back or chest, which has thicker skin, 10% BP can be more beneficial.
Being Cautious When Switching to 10 Percent Benzoyl Peroxide
Once you’ve decided to make the switch, it’s best to still start cautiously. That means you should be doing a patch test on a small area to ensure that any reactions aren’t widespread. Remember that you should feel some dryness and/or redness, as it’s a sign that the product is doing its thing.
Cautiousness will ensure that you’re able to assess your skin’s tolerance, and if you back it up with a non-comedogenic moisturizer, you’ll minimise any dryness. You must remember that acne treatments are not one-size-fits-all products, so it’s a matter of finding the sweet spot for your unique skin.
What works for one person might not work for another. It’s about finding the right balance that works for you. By staying patient and consistent, clearer skin is within your reach, as it’s a product that’s already helped millions of people.