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
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- Drug class: topical acne agents
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Patient resources
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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
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Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
