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Benzoyl peroxide is a synthetic medication used as a topical agent for fighting bacteria and unclogging pores. It is one of the longest-used medications to treat acne and fight pimples.
Benzoyl peroxide is often used in acne treatments due to its antimicrobial properties. It also has a drying effect, so it is effective at minimizing oily build-up in the pores. Benzoyl peroxide penetrates deep into the pores of skin and delivers oxygen molecules that loosen any buildup of oil, dirt, or dead skin within the pores. It also kills any bacteria trapped in the pores or on the surface of the skin that could lead to acne or skin infections around minor breaks in the skin.
There aren’t many safety concerns with using benzoyl peroxide. In fact, it is listed as one of the safest and most effective medical ingredients by the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medications. However, when used on the skin, it’s drying effect can cause mild irritation and itching. Some people may discover they are allergic to benzoyl peroxide, so caution is advised when trying a new ingredient on your skin.
Dry skin, also called xerosis, is when the outer most layer of skin, or epidermis, isn’t retaining sufficient moisture. The epidermis is partially made up of epidermal proteins and fats, or lipids, which help to retain moisture. If the proper amount of these proteins or lipids are lacking, moisture will evaporate more quickly and dry skin will ensue.
Also, external and environmental factors, such as weather, cold air, hot and excessive showers and harsh soaps, are notorious for either causing or exacerbating dry skin.
Rosehip oil enhances the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring the overall vitality of the skin. Jojoba oil is also good for keeping in moisture for healthier skin. Hyaluronic acid is another great ingredient for retaining moisture in dry skin.
Acne-prone dry skin is the hardest to treat because anti-acne ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, retinoid, etc tend to be drying. Instead of avoiding these effective ingredients, you can combine these ingredients with moisturizing ingredients to counter effect the dryness of these ingredients.
benzoyl peroxide may be effective for dry skin, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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