Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-recommended, aqueous-base acne treatment gel with 5% benzoyl peroxide that kills acne-causing bacteria, unclogs pores, and helps clear breakouts without excessive drying. This pharmaceutical-grade formula provides effective results comparable to 10% concentration with significantly less irritation.
Kills Acne Bacteria
Benzoyl peroxide eliminates P. acnes bacteria on contact, with studies showing 99% bacterial reduction within 15 seconds.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Acne Bacteria
Benzoyl peroxide eliminates P. acnes bacteria on contact, with studies showing 99% bacterial reduction within 15 seconds.
Unclogs Pores
Keratolytic action helps dissolve dead skin cells and sebum plugs that cause blackheads and whiteheads.
5% Optimal Strength
Studies show 5% BP works as effectively as 10% with significantly less irritation, dryness, and peeling.
Aqueous Base Formula
Water-based gel with glycerin provides treatment without excessive drying, suitable for daily use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFDA Category C. While minimal systemic absorption occurs (~5%), consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. Generally considered low risk by AAD and NHS.
Considered safe due to minimal absorption. Avoid applying to breast area and ensure baby's skin doesn't contact treated areas.
Safe for fungal acne. Research shows benzoyl peroxide has microbicidal activity against Malassezia species. Formula contains no fungal acne triggers.
Rating 0/5. Contains no pore-clogging ingredients. Glycerin and dimethicone are both rated 0 for comedogenicity.
Benzoyl peroxide can bleach hair, fabrics, and colored materials. Use white towels and pillowcases to avoid staining.
May increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this product.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 5%Proven
The gold standard OTC acne treatment ingredient. Works by releasing oxygen into pores to kill anaerobic bacteria, while also providing mild keratolytic (exfoliating) effects to prevent pore clogging.
- Mechanism: Generates free radicals that destroy bacterial cell walls and reduce sebum production
- Efficacy: Clinical studies show 2.5-5% works as well as 10% with less irritation
- Resistance: Unlike antibiotics, bacteria cannot develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide
Glycerin HumectantProven
A powerful humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to counteract the drying effects of benzoyl peroxide.
- Function: Draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to hydrate the surface
- Studies: Research shows glycerin outperforms hyaluronic acid as a humectant
- Safety: Comedogenic rating of 0 - will not clog pores
Dimethicone SiliconeProven
A silicone-based emollient that creates a protective barrier on the skin, helping to smooth and protect while allowing the gel to spread evenly.
- Function: Forms a breathable barrier that protects skin without clogging pores
- Texture: Provides silky-smooth application and helps product absorb evenly
- Safety: Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe
Carbomer Homopolymer Type C Gelling AgentSupporting
A polymer that creates the gel consistency, allowing for easy, even application of the active ingredient across affected areas.
- Function: Provides stable gel texture that doesn't separate or degrade
- Feel: Creates non-tacky, lightweight finish
11 ingredients
Active: Benzoyl Peroxide 5%. Inactive: Carbomer Homopolymer Type C, Dimethicone, Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate, Edetate Disodium, Glycerin, Hydrated Silica, Methylparaben, Poloxamer 182, Purified Water, Sodium Hydroxide.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing on dry skin. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying moisturizer. Use AM and/or PM based on tolerance.
How to use
HOW TO USESensitivity Test (New Users)
Apply sparingly to one or two small affected areas during the first 3 days. If no discomfort occurs, proceed to full use.
Cleanse Thoroughly
Wash face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry completely. Product works best on clean, dry skin.
Apply Thin Layer
Cover the entire affected area with a thin layer. Start with once daily, gradually increase to 2-3 times daily as tolerated.
Follow with Moisturizer
Wait 1-2 minutes, then apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent excessive dryness.
Apply Sunscreen (Daytime)
Benzoyl peroxide increases sun sensitivity. Use SPF 30+ during the day to protect skin.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
- You experience blackheads and whiteheads
- Previous acne treatments caused too much irritation
- You need a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula
- You want a pharmacy-grade product at an affordable price
- You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severe cystic acne (may need prescription treatment)
- You're allergic or hypersensitive to benzoyl peroxide
- You have extremely dry or sensitive skin
- You have eczema or dermatitis on treatment areas
- You're pregnant without doctor approval
- You cannot commit to using white towels/pillowcases
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Helps control excess sebum and keeps pores clear. The drying effect is actually beneficial for oily skin types.
Works great on oily T-zone. Apply targeted to breakout-prone areas. Pair with hydrating moisturizer on dry areas.
Effective for treating breakouts. Use a good moisturizer afterward to maintain skin balance.
May cause additional dryness. Start with once daily, use generous moisturizer, and consider spot treatment only.
5% is gentler than 10%, but may still cause irritation. Patch test first. Consider 2.5% if sensitivity occurs.
Specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, kills bacteria, and prevents future breakouts with regular use.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Initial Adjustment
May experience mild redness, dryness, or tingling as skin adjusts. Some users notice purging (temporary increase in breakouts) as product brings existing clogs to surface.
Normal for 60% of usersEarly Improvements
Existing pimples begin to dry out and heal faster. Skin oiliness decreases. Redness from product use typically subsides as skin builds tolerance.
70% see improvementVisible Clearing
Noticeable reduction in active breakouts. Fewer new pimples forming. Skin texture begins to improve. Blackheads and whiteheads diminishing.
80% see significant clearingOptimal Results
Maximum effectiveness achieved. Consistent use prevents new breakouts. Post-acne marks begin fading. Skin appears clearer and smoother.
90% achieve clear skinRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective at clearing acne without prescription
- 5% strength works well with less irritation than 10%
- Affordable pharmaceutical-grade formula
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
- Contains glycerin to help with dryness
- No bacterial resistance develops with use
- Works on both face and body acne
- Trusted brand used by dermatologists
Criticized
- Can cause initial dryness and peeling
- Bleaches colored fabrics and hair
- May cause redness in sensitive skin
- Takes 4-6 weeks for full results
- Contains methylparaben (preservative)
- Tube size could be larger
- Not suitable for severe cystic acne
- Increases sun sensitivity
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical generic formula with 5% BP. Slightly different inactive ingredients but same efficacy. Great budget alternative.
Lower 2.5% concentration with micronized BP for better penetration. Larger 8oz size. Studies show equal efficacy to higher strengths with less irritation.
Lower concentration at 2.5% BP. Vanishing formula designed for spot treatment. Good for sensitive skin or BP beginners.
4% BP in cleanser form with ceramides and niacinamide. Different product type (wash-off vs leave-on) but includes skin-supporting ingredients.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Neutrogena Rapid Clear 10%
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check expiration date printed on tube.
Store at room temperature 68-77°F (20-25°C). Keep in cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Opaque tube protects active ingredient from light degradation.
Yes - 90g tube is under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit. Safe for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQBenzoyl peroxide is FDA Category C for pregnancy, meaning risk cannot be ruled out. However, the AAD, NHS, and NIH consider it generally safe due to minimal systemic absorption (only ~5% is absorbed through skin). Always consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, it's considered low risk - just avoid applying to breast area and prevent baby's skin from contacting treated areas.
Yes! This product is fungal acne safe. Research shows benzoyl peroxide has microbicidal activity against Malassezia species (the yeast that causes fungal acne). The formula contains no fungal acne triggers like ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates. Ingredients like glycerin, dimethicone, and carbomer are all safe for malassezia-prone skin.
Use with caution. Combining BP with other actives can increase irritation and dryness. For retinol: use BP in AM and retinol in PM, or alternate nights. For vitamin C: apply vitamin C in AM and BP in PM to prevent oxidation. For AHA/BHA: avoid using together - alternate days or use at different times. Always introduce combinations gradually and monitor for irritation.
This product works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The 5% concentration provides effective treatment while being gentler than 10% formulas. Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it but should start slowly (once daily), focus on spot treatment, and pair with a hydrating moisturizer. Not recommended for those with eczema or very reactive skin.
Most users see initial improvement within 1-2 weeks, with significant clearing by week 3-4. Full results typically appear after 6-8 weeks of consistent use. You may experience initial purging (temporary increase in breakouts) during the first week as the product brings existing clogs to the surface - this is normal and will subside. Continue use for at least 8 weeks before judging effectiveness.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer. Routine order: 1) Cleanser, 2) Toner (optional), 3) Benzoyl Peroxide Gel, 4) Wait 1-2 minutes, 5) Moisturizer, 6) Sunscreen (AM only). You can use it AM and/or PM depending on your tolerance. Start with once daily and gradually increase frequency as your skin adjusts.
No, this product is non-comedogenic with a rating of 0/5. None of the ingredients are known to clog pores. In fact, benzoyl peroxide actively helps unclog pores through its keratolytic action, breaking down dead skin cells and sebum that cause blackheads and whiteheads. The glycerin and dimethicone in the formula both have comedogenic ratings of 0.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store at room temperature (68-77°F) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. The opaque tube helps protect the active ingredient from light degradation. Always check the expiration date on the packaging and discard if the product changes color, smell, or texture.
Verdict: Perrigo Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Gel is a reliable, dermatologist-recommended acne treatment that delivers pharmaceutical-grade results at an affordable price. The 5% concentration offers the sweet spot between efficacy and tolerability - research shows it works as well as 10% formulas with significantly less irritation. The aqueous base with glycerin helps minimize drying while effectively killing acne bacteria and unclogging pores. Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types looking for a no-frills, effective solution. Just remember to use sunscreen and white linens, and be patient - consistent use for 6-8 weeks yields the best results.
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 skin’s 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 «promises» 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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
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
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate
Skin Conditioning, Hydrotrope, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|