Cordes BPO
Cordes BPO
Product Description
Product overview
A clinically-proven German pharmacy benzoyl peroxide gel that effectively fights acne vulgaris through antibacterial action and gentle exfoliation. Available in 3%, 5%, and 10% concentrations, this lightweight, fragrance-free formula targets C. acnes bacteria without developing resistance.
Antibacterial Action
Releases reactive oxygen to kill C. acnes bacteria that cause inflammatory acne, reducing pimples at the source.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial Action
Releases reactive oxygen to kill C. acnes bacteria that cause inflammatory acne, reducing pimples at the source.
Keratolytic Effect
Dissolves the top corneal layer of skin, opening pores to allow excess sebum and impurities to drain.
No Resistance Development
Unlike antibiotics, bacteria cannot develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide—effectiveness remains consistent over time.
Rapid Results
Clinically proven to reduce acne lesions within 1-2 weeks of consistent use with continued improvement.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFDA Category C. Only ~5% is absorbed systemically, but consult your doctor before use during pregnancy. Generally considered low risk.
Considered low risk due to minimal systemic absorption. Avoid applying to breast area and prevent infant skin contact.
Research shows BPO has microbicidal activity against Malassezia species. Simple formula contains no yeast-feeding ingredients.
BPO increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day and limit sun exposure.
BPO bleaches fabrics and hair on contact. Use white towels and pillowcases, and wash hands thoroughly after application.
Skin may experience redness, dryness, and peeling initially. This is normal and typically subsides after 2-4 weeks.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 3-10%Gold Standard
The most effective topical acne treatment available without prescription. Works through multiple mechanisms to clear acne and prevent new breakouts.
- Mechanism: Releases reactive oxygen species that kill acne-causing C. acnes bacteria
- Research: Reduces bacterial counts by up to 98% without developing resistance
- Benefits: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, keratolytic, and wound-healing properties
Aqua (Purified Water) BaseVehicle
Purified and deionized water serves as the primary vehicle for the formula, ensuring proper delivery of active ingredients.
- Function: Solvent that dissolves and carries water-soluble ingredients
- Quality: Pharmaceutical-grade purified water ensures stability
Carbomer <1%Texture
A polymer that creates the smooth, non-tacky gel texture, allowing for even application and stable formulation.
- Function: Thickening agent that creates gel consistency
- Safety: Inert ingredient with excellent skin tolerance
Propylene Glycol 0.1g/gEnhancer
A common cosmetic ingredient that improves product stability and helps active ingredients penetrate the skin.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer
- Benefit: Improves freeze-thaw stability of the formula
Sodium Hydroxide TracepH Adjuster
Used in small amounts to neutralize the carbomer and adjust the pH to optimal levels for skin compatibility.
- Function: pH adjuster that activates carbomer thickening
- Safety: Used in trace amounts, completely safe in final formulation
5 ingredients
Benzoyl Peroxide (3%/5%/10%), Aqua (Purified Water), Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply in the evening on clean, dry skin. Start once daily and increase to twice daily if tolerated. Always follow with moisturizer to combat dryness.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash face with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. Pat dry completely before application.
Apply Thin Layer
Apply a thin layer only to affected areas. Use a cotton swab for precise spot treatment. Avoid healthy skin, eyes, and lips.
Let It Dry
Allow the gel to dry completely (1-2 minutes) before applying other products or going to bed.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizer to counteract potential dryness from the treatment.
Wash Hands Thoroughly
BPO bleaches fabrics. Wash hands immediately after application to avoid staining clothes and bedding.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
- You struggle with blackheads and whiteheads
- Previous antibiotic treatments stopped working (resistance)
- You want a clinically proven, pharmacy-grade treatment
- You prefer a simple, fragrance-free formula
- You have back acne (bacne) or chest acne
- You have oily or combination skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive or eczema-prone skin
- You cannot avoid sun exposure
- You're currently using strong retinoids without guidance
- You have severely dry or compromised skin barrier
- You're looking for anti-aging benefits primarily
- You have cystic acne requiring prescription treatment
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. BPO helps control excess sebum production while clearing pores of oil buildup.
Works great on T-zone. Apply targeted to oily/acne-prone areas only, skip dry cheeks.
Can be drying. Use 3% concentration, apply over moisturizer (sandwich method), and use sparingly.
Start with 3% formula, use every other day initially. Some redness and peeling is normal at first.
Gold standard treatment. Non-comedogenic formula with proven antibacterial efficacy.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12+Initial Adjustment Period
Skin may experience purging, mild redness, dryness, and peeling as it adjusts to the active ingredient. This is normal and expected.
70% experience initial drynessVisible Improvement Begins
Active breakouts start to clear. Inflammation reduces noticeably. New pimples appear less frequently and heal faster.
65% see improvementSignificant Clearing
Substantial reduction in acne lesions. Skin texture improves. Pores appear smaller. Post-acne marks begin to fade.
80% report clearer skinMaintenance Phase
Skin is noticeably clearer with fewer breakouts. Continue use to maintain results and prevent new acne formation.
85% maintain clear skinRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Highly effective at clearing inflammatory acne
- No bacterial resistance develops over time
- Ultra-simple, clean formula (only 5 ingredients)
- Multiple concentration options (3%, 5%, 10%)
- Affordable German pharmacy pricing
- Large 100g tube lasts months
- Fragrance-free and vegan
- Works on face, back, and chest acne
- Available without prescription
Criticized
- Causes initial dryness, redness, and peeling
- Bleaches fabrics, towels, and hair on contact
- Can be too harsh for sensitive skin types
- Requires consistent sunscreen use
- Not suitable for use with retinol or vitamin C
- May not be effective for severe cystic acne
- Plain packaging compared to cosmetic brands
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical formula with 5% BPO. Global availability. Slightly more additives but same core efficacy.
Lower 2.5% concentration but still effective. Gentler on skin with less irritation. Great for beginners.
Wash-off format reduces irritation but also contact time. Higher concentration. Better for body acne.
4% BPO with added ceramides and niacinamide. Less drying but also less potent. Good for sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDECordes BPO 5%
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature (15-25°C) in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight
Aluminum tube with screw cap, protects formula from air and light exposure
Yes - 30g and 100g tubes both comply with carry-on liquid restrictions
Frequently asked questions
FAQCordes BPO is FDA Category C for pregnancy. While only about 5% is absorbed systemically and it's generally considered low risk, you should consult your doctor before using during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, it's considered safe due to minimal absorption, but avoid applying to the breast area and prevent your infant's skin from contacting treated areas.
Yes! Cordes BPO has an ultra-simple formula with only 5 ingredients and contains no fatty acids, fermented ingredients, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Research also shows benzoyl peroxide has microbicidal activity against Malassezia species, making it a good choice for those with fungal acne.
It's best to avoid using benzoyl peroxide simultaneously with retinol (BPO can oxidize and deactivate retinol), vitamin C (BPO oxidizes vitamin C making it ineffective), or AHA/BHA acids (combined use can cause excessive dryness and irritation). Instead, use them on alternate days or at different times—BPO in the evening, vitamin C in the morning, for example.
Cordes BPO works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's particularly effective for those with inflammatory acne (papules, pustules) and comedonal acne (blackheads, whiteheads). Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it but should start with the 3% concentration and use less frequently.
Most users see initial improvement within 2-4 weeks, with significant results by 6-8 weeks of consistent use. Expect an adjustment period in the first 1-2 weeks where skin may experience purging, redness, and dryness. This is normal and typically subsides. Continue use for best results—acne treatment requires patience.
Apply Cordes BPO after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer. For evening routines: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Cordes BPO → Wait 1-2 minutes to dry → Moisturizer. In the morning, follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen. You can also apply it over a thin layer of moisturizer to reduce irritation (buffering method).
No, Cordes BPO has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is non-comedogenic and actually helps unclog pores through its keratolytic (peeling) action. It contains no pore-clogging oils, silicones, or heavy emollients—just the active ingredient and basic formula components.
Cordes BPO has a shelf life of 12 months (PAO 12M) after opening. Store at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight. The aluminum tube packaging helps protect the formula from degradation. If the product changes color, smell, or texture, discontinue use.
Verdict: Cordes BPO is a highly effective, no-frills German pharmacy acne treatment that delivers clinical-grade results at an affordable price. Its ultra-simple 5-ingredient formula makes it ideal for those seeking a straightforward solution without unnecessary additives. The multiple concentration options (3%, 5%, 10%) allow you to customize treatment intensity. While the initial dryness and fabric-bleaching properties require adjustment, the proven antibacterial efficacy and inability for bacteria to develop resistance make it a gold standard choice for treating mild to moderate acne vulgaris. Best suited for oily and acne-prone skin types willing to commit to consistent use.
Browse related
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
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 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|