Ingredient glossary
Benzoyl Peroxide
INCI: Benzoyl Peroxide · Also: BPO
Strong results with strong evidence behind them. This is one genuinely worth having in a formula.
What it does
- anti acne
- antibacterial
- comedolytic
strong evidenceMultiple large randomized trials with two point five to ten percent gels show around sixty to seventy percent reductions in inflammatory and non inflammatory lesion counts versus vehicle with frequent but usually mild irritation.
On a label: usually effective at 2.5-10%.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- oily
- acne prone
- combo
Approach with care
- very sensitive
- compromised barrier
- pregnancy
- Clogs poresModerate
- Irritation riskHigh
Pregnancy: Check with your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Plays well with
- adapalene
- clindamycin
- niacinamide
This, for every label you own
One ingredient is easy. A full label is where it gets confusing. The Ingredient Decoder reads any product and tells you the honest truth, ingredient by ingredient.
Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.