Benzoyl peroxide exhibits antimicrobial effects against Propionibacterium acnes, which is the predominant organism in sebaceous follicles and comedones.

The antibacterial effects of benzoyl peroxide are due to the release of free-radical oxygen species, which are capable of oxidizing bacterial proteins.

Benzoyl peroxide also demonstrates keratolytic activity, which produces drying and desquamative actions that contribute to its efficacy in comedone treatment.

is a medication and industrial chemical. As a medication, it is used to treat mild to moderate acne. For more severe cases, it may be used with other treatments.

Apply topically to affected area once daily. May gradually increase the number of applications to 4 times per day, as needed.

Initiate therapy with 2.5—5% formulations and gradually increase strength to 10% after 3—4 weeks, if needed, or sooner if tolerance to the lower strengths is noted

Improvement usually is noted within 3—4 weeks. Maximum effects are usually seen within 8—12 weeks

Continued use may be required to maintain the desired therapeutic response. Patients with fair skin or patients in arid environments should initiate therapy at once daily intervals and then gradually increase applications as tolerated.

Resolution of acne usually occurs within 4—6 weeks of initiation of treatment. Resolution coincides with a reduction in levels of P. acnes, lipids, and free fatty acids in the skin follicle.