Can you buy benzoyl peroxide in the UK?

Unlike other active acne treatments, such as retinoic acid, you can get benzoyl peroxide without a prescription in the UK. However, that doesn’t mean you will commonly find it on the shelves. Instead, “it’s available over the counter with a pharmacist’s guidance,” explains Dr Bunting.

Is benzoyl peroxide gel over the counter?

Benzoyl peroxide is a well-known ingredient for fighting acne. Available in over-the-counter (OTC) gels, cleansers, and spot treatments, this ingredient comes in different concentrations for mild to moderate breakouts.

Do you need a prescription for benzoyl peroxide gel?

If you don’t have an allergic reaction, you can use the product. There are many benzoyl peroxide products available. Many can be purchased without a prescription. Some products (such as cleansers, foam, or lotions) may require a prescription.

Which is the best benzoyl peroxide gel?

The Best Benzoyl Peroxide Products for Fighting Acne

  • 1 Effaclar Duo Acne Spot Treatment.
  • 2 CLENZIderm M.D. Therapeutic Lotion.
  • 3 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Cleanser.
  • 4 Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser with Benzoyl Peroxide.
  • Drugstore Deal.
  • 6 Regular Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment.

Can you buy Acnecide over-the-counter in the UK?

But many breathed a sigh of relief last week when a previously prescription-only treatment was made available over-the-counter. Acnecide face gel and wash has been reclassified so they can be bought in shops like Superdrug and Boots without the advice of a pharmacist.

Is 10 percent benzoyl peroxide too much?

Krant and Dr. Garshick maintain that benzoyl peroxide is just as effective in treating acne at 2.5 percent and 5 percent as it is at 10 percent. The difference, both dermatologists say, is that the higher percentages run the risk of irritating or drying out the skin too much.

Can benzoyl peroxide worsen acne?

During the first 3 weeks you are using benzoyl peroxide, your skin may become irritated. Also, your acne may seem to get worse before it gets better. If your skin problem has not improved within 4 to 6 weeks, check with your doctor.

How long should I leave benzoyl peroxide 5% on my face?

Before applying, wash the affected area with a nonmedicated cleanser. Then rinse and pat dry. Using a circular motion, apply a thin layer of the mask evenly over the affected area. Allow the mask to dry for 15 to 25 minutes.

Do I need prescription for Acnecide?

You can buy Acnecide 30g at a pharmacy without a prescription, but you will need to speak to a pharmacist first. This is to ensure that the treatment is right for you. Acnecide 60g gel is a prescription-only treatment that you can get from your GP or buy online from The Independent Pharmacy from our Online Doctor.

Does benzoyl peroxide really work?

Does benzoyl peroxide really work? Benzoyl peroxide does not, however, cure acne. Instead, it treats the acne and reduces the amount of bacteria. If you cease using the benzoyl peroxide, the acne-causing bacteria can return to your skin and your acne may re-appear. Why is benzoyl peroxide the secret to clear skin? Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect.

Is benzoyl peroxide good or bad?

It is generally OK to use Benzoyl peroxide for a long time, as long as you do not have any serious side effects. When you stop using benzoyl peroxide you may find that acne comes back. You may want to keep using it to keep acne under control. You may find that using it less often, such as once every other day, is enough to control acne.

How does benzoyl peroxide actually kill bacteria?

In acne, some of these pores become blocked, causing small pimples, blackheads and whiteheads. Benzoyl peroxide has three actions – it kills germs (bacteria), it reduces inflammation and it helps to unplug blocked pores.

Does benzoyl peroxide really remove your pimples?

While benzoyl peroxide can help treat oil and dead skill cells that clog your pores, this may not be the best treatment option available for blackheads and whiteheads. While benzoyl peroxide does help treat certain types of acne, topical retinoids are considered the first line of treatment. This includes adapalene and tretinoin.