The Dangers of Using Benzoyl Peroxide

 Skin Damage and Premature Aging
Benzoyl peroxide generates free radicals in the skin.  Its effect is similar to unprotected sun exposure.  The redness of the skin caused by sun exposure and Benzoyl Peroxide, are both the result of free radicals upon the skin.  What this all amounts to is damage to the structure of your skin, and premature aging of the skin.   The extent of the damage your skin incurs is related to how much, how often, and for how long you use products containing Benzoyl Peroxide.

Longer Healing Process
Because this ingredient generates free radicals it interferes with and slows the healing process.  The red and brown marks that are a part of the acne healing process may last weeks longer when Benzoyl Peroxide is used.

Cancer
Benzoyl Peroxide has been linked to cancer for a number of years and many research journal entries state  "benzoyl peroxide is a free radical-generating skin tumor promoting agent."  Performing a word search of the words "benzoyl peroxide cancer" in PubMed in the National Library of Medicine produces 102 articles from medical publications dealing with research aspects of Benzoyl Peroxide and cancer.  About two-thirds of the research supports linkage between Benzoyl Peroxide and skin cancer.
"In 1995 the FDA changed benzoyl peroxide from a Category I (safe) to a Category III (safety is uncertain) ingredient and stated this action (56 FR 37622) was based on new information that raised a safety concern regarding benzoyl peroxide as a tumor promoter in mice..."  Additionally, the FDA charged manufacturers with the responsibility of providing this information to consumers so they could make educated decisions.  Many manufacturers and product marketers have not provided this information to skin care professionals so that consumers can be advised of the potential dangers.  A more complete FDA statement is at the bottom of this page, for your reference.
Use of benzoyl peroxide to control acne may involve side effects and risks that should be considered in making decisions on acne treatment.

Complexion Perfection is made of 100% completely natural organic ingredients that are plant derived.  No harsh chemicals or additives.  It contains the properties of an astringent, antibacterial, and moisturizer all in one.

FDA / Benzoyl Peroxide Action: February 17, 1995
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) / Department of Health and Human Services
"Topical Drug Products Containing Benzoyl Peroxide: Required Labeling"
"The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing additional labeling (warning and directions) for all topically-applied acne treatment drug products containing benzoyl peroxide.  The warning advises consumers to avoid unnecessary sun exposure and to use a sunscreen when using a benzoyl peroxide product to treat acne..."
"The agency classified benzoyl peroxide from its previous status Category I to Category III status.  This action (56 FR 37622) was based on new information that raised a safety concern regarding benzoyl peroxide as a tumor promoter in mice and a study that reported that benzoyl peroxide has tumor initiation potential."
"FDA evaluated these data and information and determined that the studies show that benzoyl peroxide is a skin tumor promoter in more than one strain of mice as well as in hamsters.  To date, topical studies (which have shown only tumor promotion) have been of short duration (about 52 weeks).  Although animal data and human epidemiology data are available, the agency has determined that further studies are necessary to adequately assess the tumorigenic potential of benzoyl peroxide.  These studies are currently being conducted.  The agency acknowledges that it may take several years for these studies to be completed and analyzed, and for the final determination to be made on benzoyl peroxide's safety."

The Addiction To Benzoyl Peroxide

One of the main problems with benzoyl peroxide is that once you start using, you cannot stop. Regardless of the current condition of the skin, users must keep up with the regimen, because should there be a lapse in treatment, bacteria and acne are likely to skyrocket. It has also been known to cause dry, itchy skin as well as redness, flaking, and burning. The dependency factor may be the reason why so many products actually use this ingredient. Not only does it work, but it also keeps people using their product for an extended period of time.