Is it okay to use a salicylic astringent with a benzoyl peroxide cream?

I have extremely oily skin and ive been using a salicylic astringent and it has been doing fairly well but i bought Neutrogena On The Spot Treatment because of the benzoyl peroxide in it after i found out that benzoyl peroxide is best for oily skin. i want to know would it be alright for me to use the salicyclic acid astringent (2%) then use the benzoyl peroxide cream (2.5%). i know a lot of sites say that can be very dryin to the skin but i figure since my skin is extremely oily to begin with it may not be as harsh for me as it would be for others.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
You can use benzoyl peroxide but make sure to test it for allergic reaction first by applying a small amount on the inner side of elbow. An amount of lotion the size of a pea should be enough to cover most of your face. If your skin becomes red or peels, you are using too much of the medicine or applying it too often. If benzoyl peroxide leaves your skin dry, apply an oil-free moisturizer after 10 minutes of applying benzoyl peroxide.

Also for oily skin, avoid skincare products that leave your skin feeling taut and dehydrated. You can use cetaphil and make sure that the rest of the times you wash your face with fresh water. Avoid heavy greasy moisturizers and take a diet rich in proteins but restricted in sugar, fluids and salt. Drink plenty of quality water to keep the skin hydrated and flush out toxins.
I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep us posted in case you have any doubts.