Skin Irritation from Benzoyl Peroxide: Causes and Solutions

Skin irritation caused by benzoyl peroxide ointment?

Hello, Doctor! I have been troubled by this issue for a long time, and it remains unresolved.
I hope you can help me; I would be very grateful! In April, I developed many small bumps on my face due to skin sensitivity, which were slightly red.
Since I had experienced skin sensitivity in December, I thought that if I went to the clinic and got the same medication, Benzoyl peroxide, it would help, as seeing a doctor is quite expensive! After returning home, I applied it, and for the first couple of times, it worked really well—the bumps shrank, and I was very happy.
So, I decided to apply it over a larger area of my face, hoping to heal faster.
Unfortunately, after using it for about 2 or 3 days, one night I noticed something was wrong with my eyelid, so I immediately washed my face and used nothing else.
Suddenly, my eyelid felt as if it had been "sucked dry," and all the lines appeared...
I was very scared.
I washed my eyelid to relieve the dryness.
After this incident, my skin has suffered greatly.
Although I am not breaking out severely, the "quality" of my skin has deteriorated significantly.
My skin used to be very good, and all my friends praised it, but now I easily develop bumps (clusters of them), especially after wearing makeup.
Previously, I could wear makeup for over ten hours without issues, but now I develop bumps just a few hours after applying it, which is very frustrating! Also, when I look in the mirror closely, I notice that the areas where I applied the cream appear "shiny." This "shine" is not oily! The areas where I did not apply the cream look normal...
and the "shiny" areas, where I applied the cream, are also where I frequently get bumps...
My pores are enlarged, and I am always oily!!!! This is so troubling!!! Doctor, I have a few questions to ask you: 1.
Has my skin already been damaged in the dermis layer? Will it never recover? I checked, and the medication I used, Benzoyl peroxide, is for treating mild to moderate acne.
Its side effects include excessive dryness (which may lead to peeling, rashes, and swelling) and contact allergic reactions! I have experienced excessive dryness and peeling! However, I have not had rashes or swelling, but does that mean my skin is already damaged? 2.
Am I currently experiencing "oily on the outside, dry on the inside" skin? Because when I went to a skincare store, the sales associate checked and said that the areas where I applied the cream have no moisture retention and are very dehydrated! But I easily develop bumps! 3.
What should I do now??? Should I buy some products to repair "oily on the outside, dry on the inside" skin, and use pore-minimizing serums along with hydrating serums??? Or just focus on hydration??? Doctor, I hope you can help me resolve this, as I am very scared that I will never recover.

catherine, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/27

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

1.
Benzoyl peroxide is a medication used to treat acne (scientifically known as acne vulgaris), not for treating sensitivity.
It can cause skin dryness and peeling when used excessively.
Additionally, a small number of individuals may experience allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis even with minimal use.
If adverse reactions occur, the skin should gradually recover after discontinuation of the medication.
2.
When consulting with sales representatives, they will often mention that there are issues with the skin.
If you are considering a reputable brand, it's advisable to purchase just one bottle of a repair solution to test how your skin reacts.
Avoid buying a large quantity all at once, as it can be difficult to determine which product is causing an allergic reaction if one occurs.

Reply Date: 2005/07/27

More Info

Using Benzoyl peroxide can indeed lead to skin irritation, especially if it is not used as directed or if the skin is particularly sensitive. Benzoyl peroxide is a common topical treatment for acne, known for its antibacterial properties and ability to promote skin cell turnover. However, it can also cause dryness, peeling, and irritation, particularly when used excessively or on already sensitive skin.

Understanding Your Skin Reaction
1. Skin Damage and Recovery:
It is unlikely that your skin has sustained permanent damage to the dermis (the deeper layer of skin) from using Benzoyl peroxide. The symptoms you describe, such as excessive dryness and peeling, are common side effects of this medication. When you stop using it, your skin should gradually return to its normal state. However, recovery can take time, and it is essential to be gentle with your skin during this period. Avoid harsh products and treatments that could exacerbate the irritation.

2. Oily on the Outside, Dry on the Inside:
Your description of having "oily on the outside and dry on the inside" skin is a common condition known as "dehydrated skin." This occurs when the skin lacks moisture but produces excess oil, often as a compensatory mechanism. The dryness can lead to an increase in the appearance of pores and the formation of acne. It’s crucial to hydrate your skin properly. Products that contain hyaluronic acid or glycerin can help attract moisture to the skin.

3. Solutions and Recommendations:
To address your skin concerns, consider the following steps:
- Hydration: Look for a gentle, hydrating moisturizer that is non-comedogenic (won't clog pores). Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera can be beneficial. Avoid heavy oils that may exacerbate acne.

- Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, sulfate-free cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils. Avoid exfoliating scrubs or harsh cleansers that can further irritate your skin.

- Spot Treatments: If you still experience breakouts, consider using a lower concentration of Benzoyl peroxide or an alternative acne treatment like salicylic acid, which may be less irritating.

- Avoid Overuse: It’s important not to apply Benzoyl peroxide over large areas of your face, especially if you have sensitive skin. Use it sparingly on affected areas only.

- Consult a Dermatologist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist. They can provide personalized recommendations and may suggest prescription treatments that are more suitable for your skin type.

Conclusion
Your experience with Benzoyl peroxide highlights the importance of using acne treatments correctly and being aware of your skin's reactions. While it can be effective for treating acne, it is essential to balance treatment with proper hydration and care to avoid irritation. With the right approach, your skin can recover, and you can regain its former quality. Remember, patience is key in skincare, and gradual improvement is often the best indicator of recovery.

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