Benzac AC 5% Gel

Benzoyl peroxide is an antiseptic medicine for acne. It lowers the number of bacteria on the skin and helps unblock pores, reducing spots, blackheads and whiteheads.

Some products are only for the face, while others can also be used on the back and chest. It is sometimes combined with other acne medicines, such as an antibiotic.

Use it exactly as the label, your doctor or pharmacist tells you. It is usually best to start with the lowest strength.

• Leave-on gel: wash and dry your skin, then apply a thin layer to the affected area.
• Wash: wet the skin, wash with a small amount for 1 to 2 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
• Wash your hands before and after use.
• Keep it away from your eyes, mouth, and broken or infected skin.
• Using more will not work faster and can irritate the skin.
• It usually starts to work within 4 weeks. See a pharmacist or doctor if there is no improvement after 12 weeks.

Common side effects, which often settle after a few days or with less frequent use:

• burning, itching or stinging skin
• redness
• dry or peeling skin

Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you have:

• severe burning, blistering or swelling where you applied it
• hives, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, throat tightness or trouble breathing (call emergency services)

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it if you:

• have had a reaction to benzoyl peroxide before
• have a skin infection, cuts, grazes or broken skin
• use other acne treatments on the same area
• are under 12 years old

Keep it in the original, tightly closed container at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of the reach of children.

Sun: it makes skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen and avoid sunbeds and sunlamps.

Bleaching: it can bleach hair, clothes, towels and bedding.

If swallowed: get medical help.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: it can usually be used in pregnancy, but check first. If breastfeeding, ask first and do not apply it to the breasts.