Benzoyl Peroxide Is To Zits What Dragonglass Is To White Walkers

 

Benzoyl peroxide is a subject we know a bit about. Back in the 70s, Dr. James Fulton, the pioneering dermatologist and formulator whose innovative work forms the basis of the Vivant Skin Care line, created the stabilized version of the benzoyl peroxide gel making it more effective and far easier to use.

              

This gold standard acne-fighter has remained a skin care staple all these years. That’s because, quite simply, it works. How well? See the title of this blog. (And in case you aren’t up on your “Game Of Thrones” knowledge, Google Dragonglass and White Walkers after you finish this article. It will be worth your while.)

 

How does it work?

 

Benzoyl peroxide penetrates into pores releasing fee-radical oxygen to kill bacteria that causes acne and inflammation. It’s also a keratolytic agent. That means it causes a peeling reaction in skin. This is one of the properties that makes it so effective in treating acne. The peeling action clears the dead skin cells and removes impactions. When used twice a day, it reduces oil production by as much as 20%, further help keeping pores clear and impactions away.

 

Who’s It For?

 

People with oily or acne prone skin will find benzoyl peroxide very effective in clearing and controlling blemishes and excess oil production. It’s effective for all types of acne including whiteheads, blackheads, and the big, red, crusty, cancel-your-date variety.

 

What Percentage Should You Choose?

 

The percentage of benzoyl peroxide in products ranges from a mild 2.5% to a more aggressive10%. The percentage you choose depends on your complexion. For most people, a mid-range 3% is perfect. People with sensitive skin may find benzoyl peroxide irritating and should start with a once-a-day schedule working up to twice daily. If irritation does occur, dial it back to every other day until your skin adjusts. Once your skin gets on board, increasing to 2 or 3 applications per day is pretty standard.

 

What’s the Best Way To Use Benzoyl Peroxide?

 

Vivant makes a 3% BP Acne Wash and a 3% BP Exfoliating Cleanser. Both contain glycerin to help prevent over-drying of the skin. The wash is great for acclimating skin to benzoyl peroxide. The exfoliating cleanser provides a more aggressive treatment using granular beads to rid the skin of dead cells and boosting the cleansing process. You may prefer using both on alternating days.

 

Use the benzoyl peroxide wash or cleanser twice a day and, for a performance boost, make it part of your morning shower. Work the wash or cleanser into a lather in the shower and let it sit on your face while you complete the rest of your shower routine, then rinse away. You can also use it on your back and chest.

 

For very oily or resistant skin, couple the cleanser with Vivant’s 10% BP Gel Medication to further reduce oil in the skin. Try it under a mask, like Sulfur Clay Mask, once a week for a little extra firepower against tough breakouts. The gel should not be used as a spot treatment, but rather applied over the entire face from hairline to just under the jawline.

 

A Couple Of Caveats

 

Benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics, so be careful of your clothing and sheets if using it at night.

 

Because benzoyl peroxide can be drying to skin and over a prolonged period of regular use over several years can cause oxidative stress on skin.

 

Benzoyl peroxide makes skin more sensitive to sun, so be sure to wear sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors and to avoid prolonged sun exposure. Tanning booths and sunlamps are absolutely verboten!