Acnecide

Benzoyl peroxide releases reactive oxygen species in the follicle that kill Cutibacterium acnes — the bacteria driving inflammatory acne lesions. It also has mild keratolytic action that helps clear the pore plug. Crucially, it kills bacteria through a non-antibiotic mechanism, so there is no resistance pressure.

Clinical response is typically assessed at 8–12 weeks. Many people notice a reduction in papules and pustules within the first 4–6 weeks; full effect takes longer. The pharmacist reviews response and tolerability at follow-up.

Topical antibiotics alone can drive resistance in skin bacteria. Combining with benzoyl peroxide (which kills bacteria through a different, non-antibiotic pathway) reduces the emergence of resistant strains (Eady et al., J Antimicrob Chemother 2003) — which is why UK guidance rarely recommends topical-antibiotic monotherapy.

A thin layer on the affected areas, once daily to start (evenings). After 1–2 weeks, build up to twice daily (morning and evening) if tolerated. More is not better — over-application increases irritation without improving efficacy.

Yes — benzoyl peroxide is often used alongside a topical retinoid (applied on alternate nights, or at different times of day) or a topical antibiotic. Layering multiple actives without pharmacist review meaningfully raises the risk of irritant dermatitis.

Acne is a long-term condition driven by hormones and follicular biology, so recurrence is common when any topical treatment stops. Benzoyl peroxide can be used long-term as maintenance without the resistance concerns of topical antibiotics.

Clinical trials have shown 2.5%, 5%, and 10% benzoyl peroxide produce similar efficacy on acne lesion counts, but higher strengths cause more skin irritation. 5% is a good balance of effect and tolerability for most adults.

Dryness, peeling, mild redness, and stinging in the first 1–2 weeks are typical. They usually improve with a bland moisturiser and continued use. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabric, pillowcases, towels, and hair — take care.

Benzoyl peroxide is considered compatible with pregnancy and breastfeeding — it has minimal systemic absorption. It is often the first-line topical choice in pregnancy-related acne. Your pharmacist will review suitability individually.

Yes — daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+. Benzoyl peroxide can make skin more sun-sensitive, and acne pigmentation worsens without sun protection.

Benzoyl peroxide is an oxidising agent and can permanently bleach fabrics it contacts. Apply well before bed, allow to dry fully, and consider using older white pillowcases and towels during treatment.

Reduce frequency to every other night for 1–2 weeks and use a bland moisturiser. If irritation persists or worsens, stop and message the pharmacist team.

Yes, though uncommon. Stop treatment and seek urgent medical advice for hives, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe persistent blistering.

In discreet, unbranded packaging with a generic sender name, sent by DPD tracked delivery.

A 30g tube typically lasts 4–6 weeks at twice-daily facial use. We ship monthly by default.

No — store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

Any time. Pause, skip, or cancel from your Caremacy account with no notice period or fees.

No — Acnecide 5% is a UK Pharmacy (P) medicine, which means a pharmacist reviews suitability before supply, but a doctor's prescription is not required. Every supply request still receives an individual suitability review.

Because acne treatment works best when the product fits the skin. The pharmacist review considers severity, lesion type, pregnancy, concurrent products, and previous treatment history — and will decline supply where a different option would serve you better.

Yes. Use secure messaging in your Caremacy dashboard. For any suspected severe allergic reaction (facial swelling, breathing difficulty) seek urgent medical advice.

Only with your explicit consent. We recommend telling your GP about any long-term skin treatments for continuity of care.