Acnecide is a brand name for a topical gel that contains benzoyl peroxide, which is commonly used to treat acne. Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial and keratolytic agent, meaning it helps reduce the bacteria that contribute to acne and promotes the shedding of dead skin cells that can clog pores.
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What is Acnecide?
Acnecide contains Benzoyl Peroxide which is a topical gel used to treat mild to moderate acne and it aims to counteract the build-up of oils, inflammation and triggers of acne.
How is Benzoyl Peroxide gel applied?
After washing the affected area with warm water and a mild cleanser, apply a thin layer of the gel each evening, or twice a day if you have been advised to do so.
How does Benzoyl Peroxide gel work?
Acne is often caused by a build-up of oil in the pores causing the pores to become blocked. Benzoyl Peroxide gel (often branded Acnecide) helps to reduce the production of this oil and works by breaking down keratin in the skin structure. This in turn breaks down blackheads and whiteheads, unblocking acne-causing pores and shedding dead cells from the skin surface. Benzoyl Peroxide gel also works by killing the bacteria that cause acne, so it can therefore help prevent future acne flare ups and reduce inflammation to the affected area.
Is Benzoyl Peroxide gel effective?
It can sometimes take up to 4 weeks to see an improvement in your skin, so it is important to continue the treatment and monitor your progress. Trying the acne treatment for 12 weeks will help you to determine if it has made a real difference to your acne. As the gel can dry out the affected area, if you have sensitive skin it may be best to apply the gel only at night. It may also be worth altering the number of times you apply to once every other day until your skin adjusts.
Is it safe to apply Benzoyl Peroxide gel during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
You should not use Benzoyl Peroxide gel while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Will Benzoyl Peroxide gel react with other medication?
Any product that contains tretinoin, isotretinoin or tazarotene should not be used at the same time as Benzoyl Peroxide gel, they may decrease effectiveness and increase irritation. If you are using a combination of topical treatments, one should be applied in the morning and one in the evening. Any other topical acne treatments, cosmetics or toiletries, particularly those with high concentrations of alcohol or astringents, should be avoided while using Benzoyl Peroxide gel. The interactions between these and Benzoyl Peroxide gel may increase the likelihood of dryness, peeling or irritation to the affected area.
Alternative treatments for acne
There are a variety of other acne treatments that can be taken, including a range of other acne creams, as well as combination packages of oral antibiotics and gels or creams.
Application: Acnecide gel is typically applied to the affected areas once or twice daily after thoroughly cleansing the skin. You should apply a thin layer of the gel to the acne-prone areas, avoiding sensitive areas like the eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
Gradual Use: If your skin is sensitive, it’s often recommended to start with a single application in the evening and gradually increase to twice daily as your skin gets used to it.
Side Effects
Like many medications some patients may experience side effects with Benzoyl Peroxide gel. The most common side effects are a mild burning sensation, dryness, redness and peeling of the treated areas of skin. It is also worth noting the gel may also bleach the hair (as well as towels and bed linen). The treatment is also likely to increase sensitivity to sunlight, sunbeds or sunlamps, it is important to use a suitable factor sunscreen.
Active ingredients
Benzoyle Peroxide 5%
Inactive ingredients
Docusate sodium, disodium edetate, poloxamer 182, carbomer 940, propylene glycol (E1520), acrylates copolymer, glycerol, colloidal anhydrous silica, purified water and sodium hydroxide to adjust the pH.
Patient Information Leaflet
Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.
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