What is the most important information I should know about benzoyl peroxide topical?
Do not use benzoyl peroxide topical while you are also using
tretinoin (Altinac,
Avita,
Renova, Retin-A,
Tretin-X). Using these medications together could cause severe
skin
irritation.
Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do
not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.
Avoid getting this medication in your mouth or eyes. If it does get into any of these
areas, rinse with
water. Do not use benzoyl peroxide topical on
sunburned, windburned, dry,
chapped,
irritated, or broken skin. Also avoid using benzoyl peroxide topical on
wounds or on
areas of
eczema. Wait until these conditions have healed before using this medication.
Avoid using skin products that can cause irritation, such as harsh soaps, shampoos, or
skin cleansers, hair coloring or permanent chemicals, hair removers or waxes, or skin products
with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime. Do not use other medicated skin products unless your
doctor has told you to.
Benzoyl peroxide may bleach hair or fabrics. Avoid allowing this medication to come
into contact with your hair or clothing.
It may take several weeks of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For
best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do
not improve.
What is benzoyl peroxide topical?
Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect. It also has a mild drying effect, which allows
excess oils and dirt to be easily washed away from the skin.
Benzoyl peroxide topical is used to treat acne.
Benzoyl peroxide topical may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication
guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using benzoyl peroxide topical?
Do not use benzoyl peroxide topical while you are also using tretinoin (Altinac,
Avita, Renova, Retin-A, Tretin-X). Using these medications together could cause severe skin
irritation.
FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell
your doctor if you are
pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether benzoyl peroxide passes into breast milk or if it could harm a
nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are
breast-feeding a
baby.