Acne Tips for Healthcare Professionals
Talking about acne
We asked pharmacists across Canada about their experiences in talking to teenagers and their parents about acne. Here’s some of what we heard:
"Teens tell me they are embarrassed by their blemishes…"
"They feel bad about it even if their acne is minor."
"They imagine it to be worse than it is."
"Parents can’t stand acne on their child…"
- Canadian pharmacists in private interviews
We know that as a healthcare professional, you are frequently asked about acne care products. It can be a delicate topic. So it’s good to have a few simple facts and helpful advice to offer when teens and their parents want to talk.
Benzoyl peroxide basics
Benzoyl Peroxide (BP) is the OTC acne treatment of choice because it kills the P. acnes bacterium responsible for acne breakouts. It creates an oxygen-rich environment in which the bacteria cannot live. Being slightly keratolytic, it also helps by drying up excess sebum. The 5% BP formulation in Benzagel® Gel and Benzagel® Wash is the most effective acne medication available in Canada without a prescription.
Why Benzagel is micronized
What makes Benzagel® different is its unique micronized formulation. The active ingredient, benzoyl peroxide, is carefully ground to a mean particle size of <5 micron. This explains why Benzagel® causes less skin irritation and penetrates the pores more deeply to reach the area where the problem lies.
Of course, micronized particles can’t be seen; but Benzagel® users have told us that, compared to other BP products, "It just works better!"
Application tips
- The medication should be applied to the entire affected area, not only to the lesions. Pimples may be forming, but take six to eight weeks to become visible!
- It is important to keep using the treatment even if the skin appears to be clearing up, to prevent further breakouts.
- One of the effects of benzoyl peroxide is that it can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so users should reduce their sun exposure and wear sun protection.
- Benzoyl peroxide acts as a mild bleach, so users should thoroughly rinse off their skin before drying with a towel—or use only white towels. And, of course, avoid getting it on coloured clothing!
Useful links for acne information
Canadian Dermatology Association
