Benzoyl Peroxide Cream Cleanser 5%
Benzoyl Peroxide Cream Cleanser 5%
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, pH-balanced cream cleanser featuring 5% micronized benzoyl peroxide to fight acne-causing bacteria while N-acetyl glucosamine helps maintain healthy-looking skin and minimize dryness. This no-foam formula melts away impurities without stripping the skin barrier.
Micronized Benzoyl Peroxide
Smaller particles penetrate pores more effectively while reducing surface irritation compared to standard BP formulas.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMicronized Benzoyl Peroxide
Smaller particles penetrate pores more effectively while reducing surface irritation compared to standard BP formulas.
N-Acetyl Glucosamine
Biocompatible amino sugar that helps maintain healthy skin and reduces dryness commonly caused by acne treatments.
Aloe Vera Extract
Natural soothing agent that helps calm potential irritation from the active acne-fighting ingredients.
Gentle Surfactants
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine cleanse without stripping the skin barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEBenzoyl peroxide at 5% or less is considered safe during pregnancy. Only ~5% is absorbed systemically and quickly metabolized to benzoic acid. ACOG includes BP in recommended OTC acne treatments for pregnancy.
Safe to use while nursing. Avoid applying to breast area and wash hands before handling baby. Minimal systemic absorption means negligible transfer to breast milk.
BP shows microbicidal activity against Malassezia species in studies, but it's not a primary antifungal. May help by unclogging pores and reducing sebum that feeds yeast. Contains no fatty acids or esters that feed fungal acne.
Benzoyl peroxide increases photosensitivity. Always wear SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this cleanser.
BP can bleach colored fabrics and towels. Use white towels and allow product to fully dry before contact with clothing or bedding.
Avoid using with other topical acne medications simultaneously to prevent excessive dryness and irritation. Space out use if combining with retinoids or other actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 5%Gold Standard
The most effective OTC topical acne treatment available. Works by releasing oxygen into pores to kill anaerobic P. acnes bacteria. Unlike antibiotics, bacteria cannot develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide.
- Mechanism: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, comedolytic (pore-clearing), and keratolytic (exfoliating)
- Absorption: Only ~5% absorbed systemically, rapidly converted to benzoic acid
- Research: Studies show 2.5% as effective as 10% with less irritation
N-Acetyl Glucosamine FeaturedProven
A biocompatible amino sugar that supports skin hydration and helps maintain the skin barrier. Works synergistically with the acne treatment to minimize common side effects like dryness.
- Function: Supports skin barrier, reduces dryness, evens skin tone
- Benefit: Helps counteract the drying effects of benzoyl peroxide
- Research: Studies show improvement in stratum corneum hydration
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice SupportingSoothing
Traditional soothing ingredient that helps calm potential irritation from active acne-fighting ingredients. Contains humectants that help attract moisture to the skin.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, soothing, hydrating
- Traditional use: Sunburns, dermatitis, inflammation relief
Glycerin HumectantProven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Studies show it's more effective at hydration than hyaluronic acid. Helps maintain skin barrier function.
- Function: Draws moisture into skin, supports barrier function
- Research: 2016 study found glycerin more effective than AHAs and HA as humectant
20 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Benzoyl Peroxide 5.0%
Inactive Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Acetyl Glucosamine, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Xylitol, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Phosphate, Sodium Citrate, Propanediol, Diethylhexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first cleansing step AM and/or PM. If double cleansing, use an oil cleanser first to remove makeup/sunscreen, then follow with this BP cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Well
The formula may separate. Shake the bottle before each use to ensure proper mixing of ingredients.
Wet Face with Warm Water
Splash lukewarm water on your face to prepare skin. Warm water helps open pores for better cleansing.
Apply Dime-Sized Amount
Dispense a small amount into palms and gently massage onto damp skin, avoiding the eye area.
Massage for 30-60 Seconds
Allow the benzoyl peroxide time to work. Cover the entire affected area with gentle circular motions.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean white towel (BP can bleach colored fabrics).
Follow with Moisturizer + SPF
Apply a hydrating moisturizer to combat potential dryness. In the morning, always follow with SPF 30+.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne
- You experience hormonal breakouts
- Previous BP products were too harsh or drying
- You want a fragrance-free acne cleanser
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need acne treatment
- You have oily or combination skin with breakouts
- You want to prevent new breakouts from forming
- You prefer a cream texture over foaming cleansers
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin
- You're allergic to benzoyl peroxide
- You primarily have blackheads/whiteheads (try salicylic acid instead)
- You have rosacea or very sensitive skin
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You're already using multiple drying actives (retinoids, AHAs)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (try antifungal treatments first)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. BP helps control excess sebum and kills acne-causing bacteria thriving in oily environments. Cream texture cleanses without over-stripping.
Great for targeting T-zone breakouts while the hydrating formula doesn't overdry cheeks. Focus application on oily areas.
BP is the gold standard for inflammatory acne. Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores. Effective for preventing new breakouts.
The gentler cream formula is better than foaming alternatives. Use only once daily or every other day, and always follow with rich moisturizer.
Fragrance-free and micronized formula is gentler than standard BP. Patch test first. Start slowly with every other day use.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12Initial Adjustment Period
Skin may experience mild dryness, peeling, or temporary purging as pores clear. This is normal. Existing breakouts may come to surface faster.
~30% notice initial changesVisible Improvement Begins
Active breakouts start healing faster. New breakouts become less frequent. Inflammation and redness begin to reduce. Skin starts adjusting to formula.
~60% see improvementSignificant Results
Clear reduction in acne frequency and severity. Pores appear cleaner. Skin texture improves. Consistent users see major improvement in inflammatory acne.
~80% report clearer skinOptimal Results
Full effects of consistent benzoyl peroxide use. Maintenance phase begins. Many experience significantly clearer skin with ongoing daily use.
~90% achieve desired resultsRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Cream formula less drying than foaming BP cleansers
- Micronized benzoyl peroxide for better penetration
- N-Acetyl Glucosamine helps minimize dryness
- Fragrance-free, suitable for sensitive noses
- pH-balanced to support skin barrier (5.0-6.0)
- Effective for inflammatory acne breakouts
- Vegan and cruelty-free certification
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe at 5%
- No bacterial resistance unlike antibiotics
- Affordable compared to prescription alternatives
Criticized
- Can still cause dryness in some users
- Will bleach colored towels and fabrics
- Requires consistent sunscreen use
- Not effective for non-inflammatory acne (blackheads)
- May cause initial purging period
- Bottle size relatively small for daily use
- Not ideal for very dry or eczema-prone skin
- Results take 4-8 weeks to see
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar cream formula with slightly lower BP concentration (4% vs 5%). Larger 6oz size offers better value. Less hydrating ingredients but proven effective formula.
Contains ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for barrier support. Foaming formula may be more drying. Added glycolic acid for extra exfoliation.
Lower BP concentration (2.5%) with micronized formula. Contains ceramides and glycerin. Great starter option for sensitive skin or BP beginners.
![Effaclar Duo [+] SPF 30](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0907/5028/8215/files/pg5xsf6ex00znkgwq00ls4pgcrl7.jpg?v=1774942416)
Contains 4% BP plus 0.1% lipo-hydroxy acid. Includes soothing thermal spring water. Higher price but dermatologist-recommended French pharmacy brand.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Mark the opening date on the bottle for reference.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine. Keep cap tightly closed.
Squeeze tube bottle. Shake well before each use as formula may separate.
Yes, 5 fl oz (147ml) is over the 3.4oz TSA limit for carry-on. Transfer to smaller container or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, benzoyl peroxide at 5% concentration is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Only about 5% is absorbed systemically, and it's quickly converted to benzoic acid (a common food preservative) and excreted. ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) includes BP in their list of recommended OTC acne treatments during pregnancy. When breastfeeding, simply avoid applying to the breast area and wash hands before handling your baby.
The formula doesn't contain fatty acids, oils, or esters that typically feed malassezia yeast. Research shows benzoyl peroxide has some microbicidal activity against Malassezia species. However, BP is not a primary antifungal treatment. It may help by unclogging pores and reducing the sebum environment where yeast thrives. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider using dedicated antifungal treatments (ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione) alongside or instead of BP.
Use caution when combining actives. Benzoyl peroxide can be drying and may increase irritation when used with other actives. If using retinol: apply retinol at night, BP cleanser in the morning. If using Vitamin C: use Vitamin C serum after BP cleanser (some studies show BP may degrade Vitamin C, but in a wash-off product this is minimal). If using AHAs/BHAs: avoid using in the same routine initially. Start by alternating days until skin adjusts. Always listen to your skin and reduce frequency if irritation occurs.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The 5% benzoyl peroxide effectively targets inflammatory acne (red, inflamed pimples) caused by bacteria. The cream formula with N-acetyl glucosamine makes it gentler than many BP cleansers, potentially suitable for those who found other BP products too harsh. It's not ideal for very dry skin, eczema-prone skin, or those with primarily non-inflammatory acne (blackheads, whiteheads).
Most users begin seeing improvement within 2-4 weeks of consistent daily use. Full results typically appear after 6-8 weeks. In the first 1-2 weeks, you may experience a "purging" period where skin temporarily looks worse as existing clogged pores come to the surface faster. This is normal and should resolve. Active pimples often dry out within 24-48 hours of use. For best results, use consistently every day and combine with appropriate moisturizer and sunscreen.
Use as your primary cleanser in the first step of your routine, either AM, PM, or both. If you double cleanse (recommended for removing sunscreen/makeup), use an oil or balm cleanser first, then follow with the Naturium BP Cleanser as your second cleanse. After cleansing, follow with toner (optional), serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). Start with once daily use and increase to twice daily as tolerated.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. It doesn't contain pore-clogging oils, heavy silicones, or comedogenic fatty acids. In fact, benzoyl peroxide is comedolytic, meaning it actively helps unclog pores by promoting cell turnover and keeping pores clear of debris. The formula is specifically designed for acne-prone skin that's susceptible to clogged pores.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. This means it remains effective and safe to use for one year after first opening. The 5 fl oz bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with daily use (using a dime-sized amount each time). Store in a cool, dry place and always shake before use, as the formula may separate. Check for changes in smell, texture, or color which may indicate product degradation.
Verdict: Naturium Benzoyl Peroxide Cream Cleanser 5% is an excellent choice for those seeking effective acne treatment in a gentler-than-average formula. The micronized benzoyl peroxide penetrates effectively while the cream base with N-acetyl glucosamine helps minimize the notorious drying effects of BP. It's particularly well-suited for oily and combination skin types struggling with inflammatory acne. The fragrance-free, vegan formula and pregnancy-safe status make it accessible to a wide audience. While not a miracle cure (no acne product is), consistent use delivers visible improvement for most users within 4-8 weeks. Best value when purchased at Target or Amazon; consider PanOxyl 4% as a budget alternative with larger size.
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 2 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
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Acetyl Glucosamine
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
|