Benzoyl peroxide: Application of dual effects of antibacterial and keratolytic in skin treatment

Benzoyl peroxide, as a chemical drug widely used in dermatological treatment, has shown extraordinary effects in solving various skin problems with its unique broad-spectrum antibacterial effect and keratolytic properties. Especially in combating anaerobic infections and skin keratinization, benzoyl peroxide has become a star ingredient in many treatment options. This article will explore in depth the two core mechanisms of action of benzoyl peroxide and their specific applications in treating common acne and improving skin texture.

1. Broad-spectrum antibacterial effect: a weapon against anaerobic bacteria
The antibacterial activity of benzoyl peroxide is one of its most praised properties. It can effectively inhibit and kill a variety of bacteria, especially anaerobic bacteria commonly found in skin infections, such as Propionibacterium acnes, showing significant inhibitory effects. This property is particularly important in the treatment of common acne, because the formation of acne is often closely related to microbial infections in the pilosebaceous gland unit.

When benzoyl peroxide is applied to the skin, it can quickly penetrate the lipid barrier of acne and penetrate deep into the hair follicles. Here, benzoyl peroxide decomposes to produce new ecological oxygen, a highly reactive molecule that can destroy the cell structure of bacteria, including its cell membrane and DNA, thereby effectively killing P. acnes. In addition, new ecological oxygen can also regulate the microenvironment on the surface of the skin, reducing factors that are conducive to bacterial growth, such as excessive sebum and accumulation of dead skin cells, further inhibiting the formation of acne.

It is worth noting that the antibacterial effect of benzoyl peroxide is not limited to P. acnes. It can also fight other bacteria that may cause skin infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, which makes it have a wider application potential in the treatment of various skin infections.

2. Keratin dissolving effect: softening keratin and promoting skin renewal
In addition to its antibacterial effect, benzoyl peroxide also has a significant ability to dissolve keratin. It can denature the protein in the stratum corneum through chemical action, thereby softening and dissolving dead skin cells and promoting the renewal of the skin surface. This characteristic is particularly critical in treating skin keratinization problems, such as excessive keratinization, rough skin, and hyperkeratotic skin diseases (such as ichthyosis).

The normal metabolism of the stratum corneum is essential for maintaining skin health. When the stratum corneum is too thick or keratinized abnormally, it will not only affect the appearance of the skin, such as causing dull and rough skin, but may also hinder the normal breathing and moisture absorption of the skin, causing a series of skin problems. Benzoyl peroxide can help remove these excess dead skin cells through its keratin dissolving effect, restore the skin's natural barrier function, and make the skin smoother and more delicate.

In addition, the softening of the stratum corneum can also help improve the permeability of other therapeutic drugs, making subsequent treatments more effective. For example, in the treatment of acne, the keratin dissolving effect of benzoyl peroxide can enhance the penetration of antibiotics or retinoic acid drugs into the hair follicles, thereby improving the overall treatment effect.

III. Clinical application and precautions
Although benzoyl peroxide has many advantages in treating skin problems, its use also needs to follow certain principles and precautions. Since benzoyl peroxide is somewhat irritating, adverse reactions such as dry skin, redness, and stinging may occur when used for the first time. Therefore, it is recommended to use it under the guidance of a doctor or professional, and adjust the frequency and concentration of use according to personal skin conditions.

In addition, pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and people with a history of severe skin sensitivity or allergies should use benzoyl peroxide with caution to avoid unnecessary health risks.