Effect of Penzoyl Peroxide 4% Creamy Wash

[Zephyriss]

Just a few days ago, my dermatologist had me start using the 4% benzoyl peroxide wash. This was for my acne, and is definately helping with both the scars and acne. However, since then, my skin on my cheeks and on my chin have started to peel a small amount, and burn... especially when applying lotion/sunblock.

So I have a few questions:

1. How long is this burning/redness supposed to last?
2. I've read that benzoyl peroxide use can increase your chance of cancer. I'm hoping that it is a myth, but I would like clarification.
3. How does this cream work to clear my acne?

[loiloi]

Hi. Don't be put off by initial redness when using a new product. Start by using it a few times a week and gradually increase to daily/twice daily usage as recommended by your dermatologist. However if you delevop a serious allergic reaction stop using this product and seek medical attention.
Benzoyl peroxide is often used as a first-line acne treatment. If you cannot tolerate it or it is ineffective there are many other topical and oral preparations available. It works by reducing acne-causing bacteria on the skin, drying out oily skin and encouraging the top layer of skin to shed.
When prescribing a medicine your doctor will weigh the potential side effects against the expected benefits for you. I cannot find any medical evidence that using this product in accordance with the instructions increases your risk of cancer.
Eloise.

[Zephyriss]

Thanks a lot for the answer. :D The redness has gone down a lot, and I'm glad that there isn't anything somewhere about it causing cancer.