Water Base Gel 5%
Water Base Gel 5%
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-recommended water-based gel containing 5% benzoyl peroxide that targets acne-causing bacteria while the unique Acrylates Copolymer (AC) technology absorbs excess oil and releases glycerin to keep skin hydrated during treatment.
Kills Acne Bacteria
Benzoyl peroxide eliminates up to 94% of P. acnes bacteria within one week of consistent use.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Acne Bacteria
Benzoyl peroxide eliminates up to 94% of P. acnes bacteria within one week of consistent use.
AC Technology
Acrylates Copolymer beads absorb 4x their weight in excess oil while releasing glycerin to moisturize.
Unclogs Pores
Keratolytic action helps dissolve dead skin cells and clear blocked pores, reducing blackheads and whiteheads.
No Bacterial Resistance
Unlike antibiotics, bacteria cannot develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide, ensuring long-term effectiveness.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFDA Category C. Limited studies, but generally considered low-risk when used topically due to minimal absorption (~5%). Consult your doctor before use.
Considered safe for breastfeeding. Avoid applying to breast area and ensure baby's skin doesn't contact treated areas.
Safe and potentially beneficial. Studies show BP has microbicidal activity against Malassezia species that cause fungal acne.
Rating 0/5. Oil-free, water-based formula won't clog pores. Actually helps clear existing comedones.
Increases photosensitivity. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen when using this product.
Can bleach colored fabrics, towels, and bedding. Use white towels and pillowcases when using this product.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 5%Proven
The gold standard OTC acne treatment. An organic peroxide with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, comedolytic, and keratolytic properties that effectively targets inflammatory acne.
- Mechanism: Releases oxygen free radicals that destroy bacterial cell walls
- Efficacy: Kills up to 94% of P. acnes bacteria within 7 days
- Advantage: No bacterial resistance develops, unlike topical antibiotics
Acrylates CopolymerSupporting
Benzac's signature AC technology. These microscopic beads absorb up to 4 times their weight in excess sebum while releasing glycerin to prevent over-drying.
- Function: Oil-absorbing microspheres that balance skin hydration
- Benefit: Reduces shine without stripping skin's natural moisture
Glycerol (Glycerin)Hydrating
A powerful humectant that draws moisture to the skin and helps maintain the skin barrier. Counteracts the drying effects of benzoyl peroxide.
- Studies: More effective than hyaluronic acid as a humectant at certain concentrations
- Comedogenic: Rating 0 - will not clog pores
Carbomer 940Supporting
A polymer that creates the smooth, non-tacky gel texture. Helps evenly distribute the active ingredient across the skin surface.
- Function: Thickening and stabilizing agent
- Safety: Well-tolerated, non-irritating at typical concentrations
11 ingredients
Benzoyl Peroxide 5%, Docusate Sodium, Disodium Edetate, Poloxamer 182, Carbomer 940, Propylene Glycol, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycerol, Silicon Dioxide, Sodium Hydroxide, Purified Water
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as a spot treatment to affected areas only. Use after cleansing and before moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Wash face with a gentle cleanser and pat completely dry. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying.
Apply Thin Layer
Apply a pea-sized amount as a thin film to affected areas only. Start with once daily for 2 hours, then wash off.
Build Tolerance (Day 3+)
If no irritation after 3 days, apply in evening and leave overnight. After 7 days, can use twice daily if needed.
Moisturize & Protect
Always follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne
- You experience frequent breakouts and pimples
- You want an OTC treatment backed by decades of research
- You have oily or combination skin
- Previous acne treatments caused bacterial resistance
- You need an affordable, accessible acne solution
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or sensitive skin
- You're allergic to benzoyl peroxide
- You primarily have blackheads/whiteheads (non-inflammatory)
- You have eczema or damaged skin barrier
- You're pregnant (consult doctor first)
- You can't commit to sun protection
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. AC technology absorbs excess oil while treating acne. Controls shine effectively.
Great for T-zone application. Use as spot treatment on oily, acne-prone areas only.
Works well as spot treatment. Glycerin helps prevent over-drying. Pair with good moisturizer.
Can be drying. Start with 2.5% version, use sparingly as spot treatment, and always moisturize well.
May cause irritation initially. Start with short contact therapy (2 hours). Consider 2.5% strength first.
Ideal choice. Targets acne bacteria directly, non-comedogenic formula, proven clinical efficacy.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12Initial Adjustment Period
Expect dryness, redness, and possible peeling as skin adjusts. Some may experience initial purging as blocked pores clear. Bacteria reduction begins immediately.
94% bacteria killed in 7 daysVisible Improvement
Inflammatory acne begins to reduce. Fewer new pimples forming. Skin adjusts to treatment with less irritation. Oil production normalizes.
60% report clearer skinSignificant Clearing
Marked reduction in active breakouts. Blackheads and whiteheads diminish. Skin texture improves. Most users see substantial results by week 6.
75% see major improvementOptimal Results
Maximum efficacy achieved with consistent use. Maintenance becomes easier. Some may step down to every other day use. Continue for prevention.
85% achieve clear skinRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Highly effective at killing acne bacteria
- No bacterial resistance develops
- AC technology balances oil absorption with hydration
- Fragrance-free, oil-free formula
- Available OTC without prescription
- Affordable compared to prescription options
- Can be used long-term safely
- Works on both face and body acne
Criticized
- Initial dryness and peeling common
- Bleaches colored fabrics
- Increases sun sensitivity
- May cause redness in sensitive skin
- Not effective for blackheads alone
- Takes 4-8 weeks to see full results
- Can be harsh if overused
- Not suitable for very dry skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Lower concentration (2.5%) with similar water-based formula. Good starter option for sensitive skin. Less drying but may take longer to work.
Wash-off formula rather than leave-on gel. 4% BP with shorter contact time means less irritation. Better for body acne.
Cleanser format with same 5% BP concentration. Micronized particles for better penetration. Use in combination with Differin gel for best results.
Very similar water-based 5% BP gel formula. Same Galderma manufacturer. Available in UK pharmacies. Essentially the same product.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store below 25°C (77°F) in a cool, dry place. Keep away from heat and direct sunlight.
Squeezable tube with screw cap
Yes, under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQBenzoyl peroxide is FDA Category C for pregnancy, meaning there are no adequate human studies but animal studies have not shown clear risks. Because only about 5% is absorbed systemically and it's rapidly converted to benzoic acid (a food-safe compound), most dermatologists consider topical BP low-risk during pregnancy. However, consult your doctor before use. For breastfeeding, it's generally considered safe as minimal amounts reach breast milk. Avoid applying to breast area and ensure baby doesn't contact treated skin.
Yes! Benzac is not only safe for fungal acne but may actually help treat it. Research published in the Journal of Dermatological Science shows benzoyl peroxide has potent microbicidal activity against Malassezia species (the yeast causing fungal acne). The water-based, oil-free formula contains no ingredients that feed Malassezia. It's one of the few acne treatments effective for both bacterial and fungal acne.
Use caution when combining. Benzoyl peroxide can inactivate retinol if applied together - use BP in the morning and retinol at night. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) may be oxidized by BP, so separate them by at least 30 minutes or use at different times of day. AHA/BHA acids combined with BP can cause excessive irritation - if using both, apply on alternating nights until skin tolerates them. Always introduce one active at a time.
Benzac is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The AC technology specifically absorbs excess oil while releasing glycerin to prevent over-drying. For dry or sensitive skin, consider starting with the 2.5% version or using short-contact therapy (apply for 2 hours, then wash off). Normal skin types can use it effectively as a spot treatment.
Bacteria reduction begins immediately - studies show 94% of P. acnes is killed within 7 days. However, visible improvement typically takes 2-4 weeks. Full results are usually seen at 6-8 weeks of consistent use. Some people experience initial "purging" in weeks 1-2 as clogged pores clear. If no improvement after 4 weeks, consider increasing frequency or trying the 10% strength. Consult a dermatologist if no improvement after 8 weeks.
Apply Benzac after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer. The order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Benzac Gel → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Apply only to affected areas as a spot treatment. Let it absorb for 1-2 minutes before applying moisturizer. For beginners, start with 2-hour contact therapy before building up to overnight use.
No, Benzac is non-comedogenic with a rating of 0/5. The water-based, oil-free formula is specifically designed not to clog pores. In fact, benzoyl peroxide has keratolytic (pore-clearing) properties that help dissolve the buildup of dead skin cells and sebum that cause comedones. It actively helps unclog existing blackheads and whiteheads while preventing new ones from forming.
Benzac has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store it below 25°C (77°F) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Recent concerns about benzene contamination in BP products are related to improper storage at high temperatures - always store your BP products properly and discard if the product changes color, smell, or texture, even if within the expiry date.
Verdict: Benzac Water Base Gel 5% is a highly effective, dermatologist-recommended acne treatment that delivers on its promises. The unique Acrylates Copolymer technology sets it apart from basic benzoyl peroxide products by balancing oil control with hydration. Backed by decades of research and real-world results, it kills 94% of acne-causing bacteria without developing resistance. While initial dryness and adjustment period are common, most users see significant improvement within 4-8 weeks. Best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. An excellent pharmacy-grade option that rivals prescription treatments at an accessible price point.
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
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Anisate
Antimicrobial, Flavoring Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Poloxamer 182
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|