To use benzoyl peroxide for acne, you should first read the directions on the product you are using. Unless your dermatologist advises you to use benzoyl peroxide products in a different manner than what your product label suggests, you should probably follow the directions on the package. In general, benzoyl peroxide for acne is usually applied in a thin layer over all the areas of the face or body that are prone to acne. Before applying, it is important that your skin is clean and dry, and you should be careful that the product does not come in contact with your clothing because it could permanently discolor it in much the same way that bleach discolors things.

When you use benzoyl peroxide for acne, you should first wash and dry your face thoroughly. After you have done that, you can spread the benzoyl peroxide over your face. If you are prone to breakouts on your back, you might consider applying it on your back as well. Many people make the mistake of using benzoyl peroxide only on their existing breakouts while ignoring the other areas of their skin. Putting benzoyl peroxide on all areas of your skin that occasionally break out, even if there are no pimples present, can help to prevent future breakouts.

If your acne is severe, you might want to apply another layer of benzoyl peroxide on your skin at night before you go to sleep. Some people can get by with using benzoyl peroxide for acne just once per day, but other people need to use it more often than that. You should be careful to avoid getting the benzoyl peroxide too close to your eyes because it could severely irritate them. It's also important to be careful not to get the benzoyl peroxide on your clothes or bedding. If you put the benzoyl peroxide on before you go to bed, you might want to consider using old pillowcases and sheets that it won't concern you to stain.

In the event that you stop using benzoyl peroxide for acne, your acne might flare back up. Benzoyl peroxide works by killing the bacteria inside the pores that causes acne and also by cleaning dead skin cells out of your pores. Once you discontinue use of benzoyl peroxide, these problems are likely to continue. For some people, the severity of acne decreases over time as they age, while other people have problems with acne continuously throughout their adult years. Your dermatologist can probably help you determine how long you should continue to use benzoyl peroxide for acne on your skin.