My Issue with Benzoyl Peroxide And Why I Still Recommend It

This article explores what benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is, how it works, and why despite valid concerns around aging and microbiome disruption, I still consider it one of the most effective acne-fighting tools we have.

What Is Benzoyl Peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is a topical acne treatment that works as an antiseptic, reducing the number of acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface. It's widely considered one of the most effective, fast-acting acne ingredients available and has been trusted for over 60 years.

Think of BPO as a medicinal powerhouse for breakouts. It doesn't just address symptoms, it targets the root causes of acne at the microbial level.

How Does It Work?

When applied to the skin, BPO penetrates the pores and releases oxygen and benzoic acid, which kill acne-causing bacteria (mainly Cutibacterium acnes) by breaking down their cell membranes.

In addition to its antibacterial action, BPO also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and swelling in active breakouts. One of its biggest advantages? Bacteria can’t develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide, unlike some antibiotics.

My Two Issues With Benzoyl Peroxide

(One Former, One Ongoing)

1. Skin Aging Due to Free Radical Formation

BPO generates free radicals, specifically benzoyloxyl radicals that can convert to phenyl radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that, in excess, cause oxidative stress, which can damage skin cells and lead to premature aging. This had long been a concern of mine but after learning more, my perspective shifted.

Here's the nuance:

• The free radicals generated by BPO are very short-lived.

• If followed by an antioxidant-rich product, the oxidative stress can be effectively neutralized.

• BPO may actually delay signs of aging in some cases, thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects.

Some studies show BPO reduces antioxidants like vitamin E and glutathione in the skin by up to 50%, but these can be replenished with the right products. Timing matters too: applying antioxidants after BPO (with a short pause) helps support the skin without interfering with its acne-fighting action.

✨ Anecdotally, many long-time estheticians who’ve used BPO for years do not show signs of accelerated aging. That says something.

2. Disruption of the Skin’s Microbiome

This is my current concern with BPO: it doesn’t just kill acne-causing bacteria, it also impacts the good bacteria on your skin. This reduction in microbial diversity (called dysbiosis) may have long-term effects we’re only beginning to understand.

One study found that while BPO decreases Cutibacterium acnes, it may increase Staphylococcus populations. That imbalance raises some important questions:

• Is acne partly caused by microbiome imbalance in the first place?

• Does using BPO make that imbalance worse?

• How long does it take to recover your microbiome after stopping BPO?

• What does a healthy skin microbiome really look like?

We don’t fully know yet. The skin microbiome is an exciting and emerging field and I expect big breakthroughs in the next few years.

Could Probiotic Skincare Be the Alternative?

In theory, yes. Probiotic skincare could be a promising alternative for treating acne without harming the skin's microbiome. But most probiotic lines are still new, inconsistent, or difficult to use alongside BPO. In fact, some people report worse breakouts when switching to probiotic-only routines, likely due to detox phases or poor formulation matches.

Until we have more research-backed, user-friendly probiotic options that actually work, BPO remains the most reliable choice for consistent acne clearing.

So… Why Do I Still Recommend Benzoyl Peroxide?

Because it works.

Despite my concerns, benzoyl peroxide is still the gold standard in acne treatment. When used correctly, paired with barrier-supportive products, applied mindfully, and customized for your skin, it can make a transformative difference in skin health and confidence.

Other ingredients like sulfur, salicylic acid, mandelic acid, and retinoids also play important roles in acne care. But BPO holds a unique position due to its ability to kill acne bacteria fast, prevent resistance, and work synergistically with other actives.

Until we know more about microbiome-focused skincare and have proven alternatives, benzoyl peroxide is still one of the best tools we have in the fight against acne.

Final Thoughts

As our understanding of the skin microbiome evolves, so will our treatments. I believe the future of skincare will be more personalized, microbiome-conscious, and science-forward.

But for now? Benzoyl peroxide still earns its place in my treatment room and product recommendations. It’s not perfect, but it’s powerful and when used wisely, it changes lives.

My Go-To Benzoyl Peroxide Products

When it comes to benzoyl peroxide, quality and formulation matter. My top recommendations are GlyMed+ Clear Skin Cleanser and GlyMed+ Blemish Control No. 5. Both are medical-grade, effective, and formulated to minimize irritation while still delivering powerful results. These products are staples in my acne-clearing protocols because they strike the right balance between potency and skin support, exactly what you want when using an active like BPO.