Benzoyl Peroxide Topical Dosage
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 20, 2025.
Applies to the following strengths: 10%; 5%; 2.5%; 4%; 8%; 3%; 6%; 9%; 7%; 5.5%; 5.5%-7%; 5.25%; 2.75%; 4.25%; 4.75% with cover stick; 7.75% with cover stick; 5.3%; 9.8%; 3.5%; 9.5%; 8.5%
Usual Adult Dose for:
Usual Pediatric Dose for:
Additional dosage information:
Usual Adult Dose for Acne
Gel/cream/liquid/lotion/bar/foam: Start with 1 application per day, then gradually increase to 2 or 3 times per day if needed or as directed by a healthcare provider
Cloth: Wash affected areas once or twice per day, or as directed by a healthcare provider
Comments:
- Clean the skin thoroughly before applying this drug.
- If dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once a day or every other day.
- If going outside, apply sunscreen after using this product.
- If irritation or sensitivity develops, discontinue use and ask a healthcare provider.
Use: Treatment of acne vulgaris
Usual Pediatric Dose for Acne
12 years or older:
Foam: Start with 1 application per day, then gradually increase to 2 or 3 times per day if needed or as directed by a healthcare provider
Comments:
- Clean the skin thoroughly before applying this drug.
- If dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once a day or every other day.
- If going outside, apply sunscreen after using this product.
- If irritation or sensitivity develops, discontinue use and ask a healthcare provider.
Use: Treatment of acne vulgaris
Renal Dose Adjustments
Data not available
Liver Dose Adjustments
Data not available
Precautions
Gel/cream/liquid/lotion/bar/cloth: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.
Foam: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 12 years.
Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.
Dialysis
Data not available
Other Comments
Administration advice:
The manufacturer product information should be consulted.
Patient advice:
- Avoid contact with eyes, eyelids, lips and mucous membranes.
- If accidental contact occurs, rinse with water.
- Contact with any colored material (including hair and fabric) may result in bleaching or discoloration.
Storage requirements:
- Do not freeze
- Foam: Store upright
Frequently asked questions
More about benzoyl peroxide topical
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Pricing & coupons
- Reviews (53)
- Latest FDA alerts (3)
- Side effects
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: topical acne agents
- Breastfeeding
Patient resources
Other brands
Brevoxyl, Benzac, PanOxyl, PR Benzoyl Peroxide Wash, ... +38 more
Professional resources
- Benzoyl Peroxide Lotion prescribing information
- Benzoyl Peroxide Soap (FDA)
- Benzoyl Peroxide Wash (FDA)
Other brands
Epsolay, BenzePro, BPO 6 Foaming Cloths, Enzoclear Foam
Related treatment guides
See also:
Caplyta
Caplyta is used to treat schizophrenia or depression associated with bipolar disorder. It is taken ...
Clindamycin topical
Clindamycin topical is used for acne, bacterial vaginosis, perioral dermatitis
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
