There’s little doubt that for those suffering from acne, benzoyl peroxide face wash is one of the most notable scientific discoveries of the modern age. Containing a pimple-busting formula that removes the conditions in which acne thrives, it provides relief to millions every year.
However, despite all these benefits, there are some who have the opinion that benzoyl peroxide (BP) causes skin ageing. Is it true? Actually no and here, we’ll be providing a bit of insight into why BP products get something of a bad rap.
The Cousin of Hydrogen Peroxide
BP is a cousin of hydrogen peroxide (HP), with both suffocating the offending bacteria through the creation of an oxygen-rich environment. If you’ve ever used HP on a cut or gash, you’ll see a bubbling effect that provides an antiseptic action, however, it also tends to turn the skin around the cut, white.
Unlike benzoyl peroxide face wash, HP products can kill living tissue, which is what makes it imperfect for use on acne. This is likely one of the details that have led to the fallacy of skin ageing came from when it comes to using BP for acne.
The action provided by BP actively delivers oxygen directly into the pores, killing bacteria before it’s had a chance to do any damage.
This View of BP Products Is Unfair
In truth, BP can dry out the skin, particularly if the product being used is too strong for the skin of the user. The good news is that irritation from benzoyl peroxide face wash can be easily avoided simply by being cautious until you know how your skin reacts.
This kind of dryness is not going to cause skin ageing either, as it’s pretty much always temporary as the user finds their level. Most people find the ideal product within just a few uses, meaning that irritation and dryness are prevented.
The thing is when dryness like this occurs, it can appear as if new lines have appeared overnight. However, as soon as you moisturize and rehydrate, it goes away. Another distinct reason why this misconception started and has hung around as long as it has.
Benzoyl Peroxide Face Wash Won’t Age You
So, if anyone tries to convince you that benzoyl peroxide should be avoided for fear of causing skin ageing, you can confidently say that this isn’t the case. It’s easy to see why this falsehood came to pass, but that’s what it is – a falsehood.
Don’t let this misconception stop you from enjoying the benefits that BP products provide, as you only have to do a little online research to see just how many people have benefitted from them.
The truth is that when used correctly, all you’ve got to look forward to is clearer looking skin and an end to persistent breakouts. Should you encounter any dryness or irritation, simply back off the treatment and let your skin recover. What we can tell you is that this alone will not cause your skin to age.
What will, however, is letting your acne thrive. Then, you’re likely going to have scarring that will make you look older than you are.