Knowra Benzoyl peroxide Benzoyl peroxide Benzoyl peroxide is an organic peroxide used topically to treat acne, to bleach materials, and to initiate polymerization by generating reactive radicals.
Free-radical polymerization : A chain-growth polymerization in which reactive radicals add monomers to growing polymer chains. Benzoyl peroxide initiates these reactions by decomposing into radicals.
Acne vulgaris : A chronic inflammatory skin condition involving blocked hair follicles, excess sebum, and lesions. Benzoyl peroxide is a common topical treatment for mild to moderate acne.
Salicylic acid : A beta-hydroxy acid used topically to loosen dead skin cells and unclog pores. It treats acne mainly by exfoliating follicles rather than oxidizing bacteria.
Skin irritation : A local inflammatory response that can cause redness, dryness, burning, or peeling. Irritation is a common dose-related effect of topical benzoyl peroxide.
Homolysis : The breaking of a chemical bond so each bonded atom retains one electron. Heating or activating its weak peroxide bond produces radical species through homolysis.
Topical medication : A medicine applied to a body surface, usually to act locally. Acne products deliver benzoyl peroxide directly to affected skin.
Adapalene : A topical retinoid used to normalize follicular cell turnover and treat acne. Unlike benzoyl peroxide, it targets comedone formation through retinoid signaling.
Contact dermatitis : An inflammatory skin reaction caused by direct exposure to an irritant or allergen. Benzoyl peroxide can cause irritant dermatitis and, less often, allergic contact dermatitis.
Reactive oxygen species : Reactive oxygen-containing molecules and radicals that readily participate in oxidation reactions. Oxidative chemistry helps explain its antibacterial and bleaching effects.
Hair bleaching : The chemical lightening of hair by oxidizing its natural pigments. Benzoyl peroxide can oxidize pigments, though other agents dominate modern hair bleaching.
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