Both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are used to treat acne.
Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are topical preparations used to treat various skin conditions, including acne. While both are used for similar reasons, the way they work is different. When treating acne, choose a product that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Mixing the use of multiple products with both active ingredients increases the risk of irritation.
Salicylic acid is commonly used to treat dermatitis.
The drug known as benzoyl peroxide works by killing the bacteria that cause acne. It does this by working as an antiseptic, killing bacteria immediately, and as an oxygenator, drawing oxygen into the pores. The bacteria that cause acne are anaerobic, which means that they require an oxygen-free environment to live. Benzoyl peroxide has no residual effect, which means continued use is necessary to keep skin clean.
Topical salicylic acid can be used to treat warts.
On the contrary, salicylic acid smoothes the keratin of the skin. This loosens the skin cells that are blocking the pores. Salicylic acid also slows down the exfoliation process within the pores, reducing future blockages and removing existing blackheads and whiteheads.
Both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are safe and generally well tolerated. Both chemicals, however, can cause skin irritation in certain people. To reduce the risk of irritation, start applying the medicine every three days, gradually increasing the frequency if there are no signs of irritation. If redness, burning, or irritation occurs, discontinue use until symptoms resolve and try a product with a different active ingredient.
Possible side effects of using benzoyl peroxide include blistering, itching, burning, crusting, and swelling in the treated area, as well as rash, peeling, dry skin, and warmth in the affected area. Ingestion of benzoyl peroxide can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
In addition to possible skin irritation, side effects of salicylic acid use include flushing and flushing of the skin. If ingested, salicylic acid can cause confusion, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, rapid breathing, and ringing in the ears.
Both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are affordable and widely available. Benzoyl peroxide is only used as an acne treatment. It has bleaching properties and can whiten clothing or sheets it comes in contact with before drying. On the other hand, salicylic acid is commonly used as a treatment for warts, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin conditions, as well as to treat acne. Both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid increase skin sensitivity, and users should protect their skin with sunscreen while using the products.