Definition of Benzoyl Peroxide and Benzyl Benzoate
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl Peroxide is a topical medication commonly used to treat acne. It is available over-the-counter and in prescription strength.
Mechanism of Action: Benzoyl Peroxide works by reducing the amount of bacteria on the skin, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation. It does this by releasing oxygen when it comes into contact with the skin. This oxygen kills the bacteria that cause acne, and helps to loosen and remove dead skin cells that can clog pores.
Dosage Forms and Strengths: Benzoyl Peroxide is available in several forms, including creams, gels, and lotions. It comes in different strengths, ranging from 2.5% to 10%.
Possible Side Effects: Some common side effects of Benzoyl Peroxide include dryness, itching, burning, and redness. These side effects are usually mild and go away as the skin gets used to the medication. However, if you experience severe side effects such as blistering or severe irritation, you should stop using the medication and consult a doctor.
Precautions and Contraindications: Benzoyl Peroxide should not be used on broken or damaged skin, as it can cause severe irritation. It should also be avoided around the eyes and mouth. If you have sensitive skin, it is recommended to start with a lower strength and gradually increase as tolerated.
Benzoyl Peroxide is an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne. It is generally safe and well-tolerated, and is available without a prescription. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, and it is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
Benzyl Benzoate
Benzyl Benzoate is a topical medication that is primarily used to treat scabies and other skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It is available in prescription strength and is not available over-the-counter.
Mechanism of Action: Benzyl Benzoate works by killing the mites that cause scabies. It does this by penetrating the skin and causing the mites to dehydrate and die. It also has mild antiseptic properties, which help to reduce the risk of secondary infections.
Dosage Forms and Strengths: Benzyl Benzoate is available as a lotion, cream, or ointment, with strengths ranging from 10% to 25%. The appropriate strength and dosage will depend on the individual’s age, weight, and the severity of the condition being treated.
Possible Side Effects: Some common side effects of Benzyl Benzoate include itching, burning, and redness at the site of application. These side effects are usually mild and go away as the skin gets used to the medication. However, if you experience severe side effects such as blistering or severe irritation, you should stop using the medication and consult a doctor.
Precautions and Contraindications: Benzyl Benzoate should not be used on broken or damaged skin, as it can cause severe irritation. It should also be avoided around the eyes and mouth. If you have sensitive skin, it is recommended to start with a lower strength and gradually increase as tolerated. Benzyl Benzoate is not Benzyl Benzoate is an effective treatment for scabies and other skin conditions when used as directed by a healthcare provider. It is generally safe and well-tolerated, but it may not be suitable for everyone. As with any medication, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider before starting a new treatment.
Differences Between Benzoyl Peroxide and Benzyl Benzoate
Although both Benzoyl Peroxide and Benzyl Benzoate are topical medications used to treat skin conditions, there are several key differences between the two:
Mechanism of Action: Benzoyl Peroxide works by reducing the amount of bacteria on the skin, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation. It releases oxygen when it comes into contact with the skin, which kills the bacteria that cause acne and helps to remove dead skin cells. Benzyl Benzoate, on the other hand, works by killing mites that cause scabies and has mild antiseptic properties.
Indications and Usage: Benzoyl Peroxide is primarily used to treat acne, while Benzyl Benzoate is used to treat scabies and other skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Side Effects and Precautions: While both medications may cause mild side effects such as itching, burning, and redness, Benzyl Benzoate may cause more severe side effects such as blistering or severe irritation. Benzyl Benzoate should not be used on broken or damaged skin, and should be avoided around the eyes and mouth. Benzoyl Peroxide, on the other hand, should not be used on sensitive or damaged skin, and may cause dryness and peeling.
Dosage Forms and Strengths: Benzoyl Peroxide is available over-the-counter and in prescription strength, and comes in several forms such as creams, gels, and lotions. It is available in strengths ranging from 2.5% to 10%. Benzyl Benzoate, on the other hand, is available only in prescription strength, and comes in the form of a lotion, cream, or ointment. It is available in strengths ranging from 10% to 25%.
Cost and Availability: Benzoyl Peroxide is widely available over-the-counter, and is relatively inexpensive. Benzyl Benzoate, on the other hand, is available only with a prescription and may be more expensive.
Benzoyl Peroxide and Benzyl Benzoate are both effective medications for treating skin conditions, but they have different indications, mechanisms of action, and potential side effects. The choice between the two will depend on the individual’s specific condition and needs, and should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.
Which One to Choose?
The choice between Benzoyl Peroxide and Benzyl Benzoate will depend on the individual’s specific condition and needs.
If you are dealing with acne, Benzoyl Peroxide may be a good option as it is widely available over-the-counter and comes in several forms such as creams, gels, and lotions. It is also relatively inexpensive and effective at reducing the amount of bacteria on the skin, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation.
If you are dealing with scabies or other skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, Benzyl Benzoate may be a better option as it is specifically designed to kill mites that cause scabies and has mild antiseptic properties. However, Benzyl Benzoate is only available with a prescription and may be more expensive than Benzoyl Peroxide.
It is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider before starting a new treatment. They can evaluate your specific condition and needs, and help you make an informed decision about which medication is right for you.
Conclusion
While both Benzoyl Peroxide and Benzyl Benzoate are topical medications used to treat skin conditions, they have different mechanisms of action, indications, potential side effects, and availability. Benzoyl Peroxide is primarily used to treat acne, widely available over-the-counter, and relatively inexpensive. Benzyl Benzoate, on the other hand, is used to treat scabies and other skin conditions, available only with a prescription, and may be more expensive. The choice between the two will depend on the individual’s specific condition and needs, and should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.
References Website
- Benzoyl Peroxide: https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1344/benzoyl-peroxide-topical/details
- Benzyl Benzoate: https://www.drugs.com/cdi/benzyl-benzoate-lotion.html
- Comparison of the efficacy and safety of 10% benzoyl peroxide lotion and 25% benzyl benzoate lotion in the treatment of scabies in Japan: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12226724/
- Treatment of acne vulgaris: combination of 3% erythromycin and 5% benzoyl peroxide in a gel compared to clindamycin phosphate lotion: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1958863/
