Benzoyl Peroxide Topical Side Effects
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 10, 2025.
Applies to benzoyl peroxide topical: topical bar, topical cream, topical foam, topical gel/jelly, topical liquid, topical lotion, topical pad, topical soap, topical solution.
Serious side effects
Along with its needed effects, benzoyl peroxide topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking benzoyl peroxide topical:
Less common side effects
- pain, burning, blistering, changes in color, dryness, itching, peeling, redness, scaling, stinging, or swelling of the skin where the medicine is applied
Incidence not known
- chest tightness
- cough
- difficulty swallowing
- dizziness
- fainting
- fast heartbeat
- hives, itching, or skin rash
- increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
- large, hive-like swelling on face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
- redness or other discoloration of the skin
- severe sunburn
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
- tightness in the throat
- trouble breathing
- unusual tiredness or weakness
Other side effects
Some side effects of benzoyl peroxide topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
Less common side effects
- dryness or peeling of the skin (may occur after a few days)
- feeling of warmth, mild stinging, and redness of the skin
For healthcare professionals
Applies to benzoyl peroxide topical: compounding powder, topical bar, topical cream, topical foam, topical gel, topical kit, topical liquid, topical lotion, topical pad, topical paste, topical soap.
General adverse events
The most commonly reported side effects were peeling and application site erythema.[Ref]
Hypersensitivity
- Frequency not reported: Allergic reactions, including application site hypersensitivity and anaphylaxis[Ref]
Dermatologic
- Very common (10% or more): Peeling, application site erythema
- Common (1% to 10%): Dryness, pruritus, contact sensitization reactions
- Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Burning sensation
- Frequency not reported: Contact dermatitis, application site rash, application site discoloration, application site reactions (irritation and pain)[Ref]
Other
- Frequency not reported: Swelling of the face[Ref]
References
1. (2001) "Product Information. Triaz (benzoyl peroxide topical)." Medicis Dermatologics Inc
2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."
Frequently asked questions
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Professional resources
- Benzoyl Peroxide Lotion prescribing information
- Benzoyl Peroxide Soap (FDA)
- Benzoyl Peroxide Wash (FDA)
Other brands
Epsolay, Enzoclear Foam, BenzePro, BPO 6 Foaming Cloths
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Further information
Benzoyl peroxide topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.
