Dermatologists dont think it’s crucial that you discard your favoriteacneproducts just yet.
Heres everything experts say you’re gonna wanna know about acne products and benzoyl peroxide.
How Much Benzoyl Peroxide Do Acne Products Contain?
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Benzoyl peroxide is a topical antiseptic, and its not inherently dangerous on its own.
The issue is that it can decompose into a carcinogenic chemical called benzene at high temperatures.
Systemic absorption of benzene through the skin is likely super low, Nazarian added.
My advice is this: Dont throw away your benzoyl peroxide products.
Barbieri and Geddes-Bruce recommend storing acne products at room temperature or even keeping them refrigerated.
There is certainly a role for benzoyl peroxide in treating acne.
We just need to double-check it is formulated [and stored] safely, Geddes-Bruce said.
If youre really worried about benzoyl peroxide, remember that its far from the onlyacne treatment ingredientout there.
Valisures benzene testinghas previously led tosunscreen recalls.
But Nazarian doubts a recall for benzoyl peroxide acne products is coming.
Valisure.FDA citizen petition #8: benzene in benzoyl peroxide products.