- MedHelp.org's Alan Rockoff, MD says benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid can be used together. However, South Carolina's Department of Health & Environmental Control (SCDHEC) does not recommend using products containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid at the same time.
- The SCDHEC's says using products containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid at the same time potentially cause excessive skin dryness and irritation.
- Benzoyl peroxide is an effective acne medication that kills Propionibacterium acnes--the bacteria responsible for acne inflammation--but can cause skin irritation and dryness. Salicylic acid promotes skin cell turnover to unclog pores but it can irritate and dry out skin.
- Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid exist in facial cleansers, facial masks, acne spot treatment gels and acne lotions. Inova 4/1, Inova 8/2 and Cleanse & Treat are topical, prescription medications containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid for the treatment of acne.
- Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid medications such as the Inova brands and Cleanse & Treat are not for the treatment of mild acne. People younger than the age of 18 should consult a doctor before using benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid topical medications, according to MSN Health.
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