Benzoyl peroxide

Anti-acne
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Benzoyl peroxide is a anti-acne found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Benzac AC 2.5%. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Kills acne bacteria and unclogs pores.

How it works

Kills acne bacteria and unblocks pores; does not cause antibiotic resistance.

How to take it

Start with 2.5 to 5 percent once a day, increasing to twice; can bleach fabrics and hair.

Common side effects

  • Dryness
  • Peeling
  • Redness
  • Stinging

Get medical help straight away if

Swelling, blisters or hives (allergy)

Be careful

Can dry the skin and bleach clothes and towels.

Other medicines and interactions

Can inactivate tretinoin applied at the same time.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Brands of Benzoyl peroxide (1)

Benzac AC 2.5%

Common questions

What is Benzoyl peroxide used for?

Kills acne bacteria and unclogs pores.

How does Benzoyl peroxide work?

Kills acne bacteria and unblocks pores; does not cause antibiotic resistance.

How should I take Benzoyl peroxide?

Start with 2.5 to 5 percent once a day, increasing to twice; can bleach fabrics and hair.

What are the side effects of Benzoyl peroxide?

Common: Dryness, peeling, redness, stinging. Get help straight away for: Swelling, blisters or hives (allergy).

Does Benzoyl peroxide interact with other medicines?

Can inactivate tretinoin applied at the same time.

Is Benzoyl peroxide safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Benzoyl peroxide need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Benzoyl peroxide?

Benzac AC 2.5%.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.