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Why You Should STOP Using Benzoyl Peroxide
The subject of acne is dear to my heart after having a personal struggle with it for many years. In the past, I used products containing benzoyl peroxide (most over the counter products contain BP or salicylic acid) and after some research, I have some scary news for you.
What is Benzyol Peroxide?
Benzoyl peroxide (BP) is a very common chemical skincare ingredient commonly found in specifically acne products, although it can also be used to control oil and for ingrown hairs. It usually comes in strengths varying from 2.5%-10%. BP works by releasing oxygen into the pores to help kill acne causing bacteria which cannot survive in an oxygen-rich environment. It is also a powerful exfoliator that removes dead surface skin cells and clearing up pore-clogging debris that causes blackheads and whiteheads. Bacteria does not develop a resistance to it which makes it effective for long term use.
Some common side effects of Benzoyl Perozide are:
Extreme dryness or oilyness and dehydration - Using BP often causes the skin to become very dry and dehydrated, but in some cases also causes extreme oilyness becauses BP strips the skin causing oil glands "freak out" and produce more oil to keep the skin balanced.
Allergic reaction - Although only 1%-3% of people are allergic to benzoyl peroxide it is possible. Severe irritation from overly dry skin happens a lot and sometimes even stinging, burning, rashes and peeling of skin. Benzoyl Peroxide can cause allergic contact dermatitis as well.
Severe reacations - Include hives, itching, dizziness, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest and swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue.
Can cause permanent brown spots on the skin.
Benzoyl peroxide is not recommended during pregnancy or breast feeding as its safety is not yet determined. I feel that if it isn't safe for you child, it isn't safe for you.
Although the above should be reason enough to not use BP here's the best one.... It's a free radical, and free radicals CAUSE AGING! Of course we all want clear skin, but is it worth prematurely aging your skin?
You may ask, "then how am I supposed to treat my acne?"
I have battled with acne for the past 8 years and tried almost every product possible inlcuding homemade remedies, but nothing has compared to A Natural Difference Skincare, which I have used for the past 3 years. The Acne Kit has changed my life! With ingredients like cranberry which contains vaccinium, natures benzoyl peroxide, willow bark (natures salicylic acid) and sulfur to kill bacteria this kit is sure to give you results, without using harmful chemicals! If you would like more information please feel free to contact me at 419-677-6463.
Below is my own skin journey using the A Natural Difference Acne Kit, and a few other products from the product line!
