Acne Medication Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
Acne Medication Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
Product Description
A dermatologist-trusted, pharmacy-grade benzoyl peroxide gel that penetrates deep into pores to kill 99% of acne-causing bacteria, clear existing breakouts, and prevent new blemishes from forming. This greaseless, vanishing formula offers clinical-strength treatment at an affordable price.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Kills 99% of Acne Bacteria
Benzoyl peroxide releases oxygen into pores, destroying P. acnes bacteria that causes inflammatory acne.
Unclogs Pores
Comedolytic action helps dissolve dead skin cells and sebum buildup that leads to blackheads and whiteheads.
Vanishing Formula
Greaseless gel absorbs quickly and dries clear, making it suitable for daytime use under makeup or moisturizer.
No Antibiotic Resistance
Unlike topical antibiotics, bacteria cannot develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide, ensuring long-term effectiveness.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
FDA Category C. Limited data, but minimal systemic absorption (only 5%) and rapid excretion suggest low risk. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Considered low risk due to minimal absorption. Avoid application on areas that may contact infant's skin during nursing.
Studies show BP has potent microbicidal activity against Malassezia species. The formula contains no fungal-feeding ingredients.
Gel-based formula with 0/5 comedogenic rating. Contains no pore-clogging oils, silicones, or heavy emollients.
BP increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day and limit sun exposure.
Benzoyl peroxide can bleach colored fabrics, towels, pillowcases, and hair. Use white linens when possible.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
β‘ Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Gold Standard
The most effective OTC acne-fighting ingredient available. Works by releasing oxygen into pores, killing acne-causing bacteria and promoting skin cell turnover to unclog pores.
- Efficacy: Studies show 5% BP reduces inflammatory lesions by 57% at week 4 and 67% by week 8
- Bacteria Kill Rate: Eliminates over 99% of P. acnes bacteria within minutes
- No Resistance: Unlike antibiotics, bacteria cannot develop resistance to BP
- Comparison: 2.5% and 5% BP are equally effective as 10% with less irritation
π§ͺ Carbomer Texture
A safe, widely-used gelling agent that creates the smooth, spreadable gel texture. Helps the active ingredient stay evenly distributed on the skin.
- Function: Thickening and stabilizing agent
- Safety: Non-comedogenic, non-irritating
π‘οΈ Disodium EDTA Stabilizer
A chelating agent that binds to metal ions, helping to preserve the formula and maintain product stability over time.
- Function: Prevents oxidation and extends shelf life
- Safety: Used in trace amounts, non-irritating
π§ Laureth-4 Surfactant
A gentle emulsifying agent that helps the formula spread evenly and enhances penetration of the active ingredient into pores.
- Function: Improves product spreadability and absorption
- Safety: Mild surfactant, suitable for facial use
7 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
Inactive Ingredients: Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Laureth-4, Sodium Hydroxide, Titanium Dioxide, Water
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after cleansing on dry skin. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying moisturizer. Always follow with sunscreen during the day.
π How to Use
Cleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Pat dry completely before applying treatment.
Apply Thin Layer
Apply a thin, even layer to the entire affected area β not just individual pimples. A pea-sized amount covers the full face.
Start Slowly
Begin with once daily application (preferably at night). Gradually increase to 2-3 times daily as your skin builds tolerance.
Follow with Moisturizer
Wait 1-2 minutes for the gel to absorb, then apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent dryness.
Protect from Sun
Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning. BP increases sun sensitivity, making daily sun protection essential.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
- You struggle with blackheads and clogged pores
- You want an affordable, pharmacy-grade treatment
- You prefer a greaseless, vanishing formula
- You need a fragrance-free, minimal ingredient product
- Previous treatments stopped working (antibiotic resistance)
- You have oily or combination skin
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive or eczema-prone skin
- You're allergic to benzoyl peroxide
- You have severe cystic acne (see a dermatologist)
- You're unwilling to use sunscreen daily
- You have extremely dry, compromised skin barrier
- You frequently use colored fabrics you can't bleach
π― Skin Type Compatibility
BP helps control excess sebum and keeps pores clear. Greaseless formula won't add shine. May actually help reduce oiliness over time.
Apply to T-zone and breakout-prone areas. Can target oily zones without over-drying cheeks when used strategically.
This is exactly what BP is designed for. Kills bacteria, unclogs pores, and prevents new breakouts. The gold standard treatment.
Effective for occasional breakouts. Use as spot treatment or apply to commonly affected areas. Pair with good moisturizer.
Can increase dryness. Start slowly, use once daily, and always follow with a rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Consider 2.5% strength.
May cause irritation initially. Do a patch test first. Start every other day and buffer with moisturizer underneath if needed.
π Results Timeline
Adjustment Phase
Mild dryness, peeling, and possible "purging" (temporary increase in breakouts as clogged pores clear). This is normal and will subside.
33-40% reduction in inflammationVisible Improvement
Skin begins to adjust. Fewer new breakouts, existing pimples healing faster, overall redness decreasing.
51-57% reduction in inflammatory lesionsSignificant Results
Noticeable reduction in acne. Pores appear cleaner, skin texture improving, breakout frequency decreasing substantially.
63-67% reduction in lesionsOptimal Clearance
Maximum benefits achieved. Skin significantly clearer, balanced, and healthy-looking. Maintain with continued use to prevent recurrence.
68-73% total improvementβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Very affordable generic alternative to brand names
- Effective 5% strength β gentle yet powerful
- Greaseless, vanishing formula dries clear
- No fragrance or unnecessary additives
- Works quickly β visible results in 2-4 weeks
- Trusted US pharmacy brand with FDA compliance
- Simple, clean ingredient list
- Prevents antibiotic resistance
β Criticized
- Small 1.5 oz tube runs out quickly
- Initial dryness and peeling is common
- Can bleach fabrics, towels, and hair
- Increases sun sensitivity
- Not ideal for very dry or sensitive skin
- Some users prefer higher 10% concentration
- No pump dispenser (tube packaging)
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Nearly identical formula as a store brand generic. Same 5% BP concentration in a vanishing gel base. May have slight texture differences.
Another pharmacy store brand with same active ingredient at same concentration. Comparable efficacy and similar inactive ingredients.
Lower 2.5% concentration is gentler but equally effective per studies. Brand name with vanishing cream formula. Better for sensitive skin.
Premium micronized BP formula with 2.5% concentration. Larger 8 oz size lasts months. pH-balanced, pharmaceutical-grade particles for deeper penetration.
π Comparison with Competitors
Rugby BP 5% Gel (This Product)
~$6.55PanOxyl 10% Foaming Wash
~$11.99Neutrogena On-The-Spot 2.5%
~$8.49Acne.org 2.5% BP Treatment
~$18.81π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Check expiration date on packaging β typically 2-3 years from manufacture.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (59-86Β°F / 15-30Β°C). Do not freeze.
Squeeze tube with screw-on cap. Simple, hygienic dispensing that minimizes air exposure and contamination.
Yes, 1.5 oz is TSA-compliant for carry-on luggage (under 3.4 oz liquid limit). Compact tube fits easily in toiletry bag.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Benzoyl peroxide is FDA Category C for pregnancy, meaning limited data exists but risk is considered low due to minimal systemic absorption (only about 5% enters the bloodstream and is quickly excreted). Most dermatologists and organizations like the AAD and NHS consider topical 5% BP safe during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, it's considered low risk β just avoid applying to areas that may contact your infant's skin. Always consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes! This product is fungal acne safe. Research published in the Journal of Dermatological Science shows benzoyl peroxide has potent microbicidal activity against Malassezia species (the yeast that causes fungal acne). The gel formula contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, or ferments that feed Malassezia. It's an excellent choice for those dealing with both bacterial and fungal acne simultaneously.
Use caution when combining with other active ingredients. BP can oxidize and reduce the effectiveness of retinol/tretinoin if applied at the same time β use them at different times (BP morning, retinol night) or on alternate days. Vitamin C can also be destabilized by BP, so separate application times are recommended. Using BP with AHA/BHA may increase dryness and irritation β start slowly and monitor your skin. If using multiple actives, introduce one at a time and listen to your skin.
This product is excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The 5% concentration is the "sweet spot" β effective enough to treat moderate acne while being gentler than 10% formulas. It's also suitable for normal skin with occasional breakouts. Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it but should start slowly, use once daily, and always follow with moisturizer. Very sensitive or eczema-prone skin may want to try 2.5% strength first.
Clinical studies show: 33-40% reduction in inflammatory lesions by week 2, 51-57% by week 4, and 63-67% by week 8. Most users notice significant improvement within 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Initial "purging" (temporary increase in breakouts) during weeks 1-2 is normal as clogged pores clear. Best results typically occur after 8-12 weeks. Continue use even after skin clears to prevent new breakouts.
Apply after cleansing on completely dry skin, before moisturizer. The order is: Cleanser β Toner (optional) β Benzoyl Peroxide β Moisturizer β Sunscreen (AM only). Wait 1-2 minutes after applying BP before adding moisturizer to allow absorption. Always use sunscreen during the day as BP increases sun sensitivity. At night, you can skip sunscreen but always moisturize.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The gel formula contains no pore-clogging ingredients like heavy oils, silicones, or comedogenic emollients. In fact, benzoyl peroxide is comedolytic β meaning it actively helps unclog pores by promoting skin cell turnover and dissolving the sebum and dead skin that cause blackheads and whiteheads. It's designed specifically for acne-prone skin.
The product is stable for 12 months after opening when stored properly. Check the expiration date printed on the tube β unopened products typically have a 2-3 year shelf life. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. If the product changes color, texture, or smell, discard and replace. Note: Recent concerns about benzene formation in some BP products are mitigated by proper storage in cool conditions.
Verdict: Rugby Laboratories Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Gel delivers proven acne-fighting power at a fraction of brand-name prices. This pharmacy-grade formula effectively kills bacteria, unclogs pores, and prevents new breakouts with minimal irritation compared to 10% alternatives. While the small tube size means you'll need to repurchase frequently, the affordable price and simple, fragrance-free formula make it an excellent value for anyone seeking a no-frills, science-backed acne treatment. Best for oily to combination, acne-prone skin. Start slowly, always moisturize, and don't forget your sunscreen!
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Laureth-4
Emulsifying, Masking
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|