WHAT ABOUT THE STORAGE TEMPERATURE? SHOULD WE KEEP PIMPLE CREAMS IN THE FRIDGE?
You do want to play it safe. “To avoid potential degradation to benzene, benzoyl peroxide topicals should be stored in the refrigerator or below room temperature,” said Adj Assoc Prof Oon. “Products which have been exposed to temperatures above room temperature or expired should be discarded.”
HSA has the same message when it comes to storing your tube of pimple cream: Keep in a cool and dry place away from heat or direct sunlight as recommended on the product’s label. “Benzoyl peroxide products should not exceed the limit of 2ppm for benzene as recommended in the International Council for Harmonisation guidelines for pharmaceuticals for human use,” said HSA’s spokesperson.
WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES TO BENZOYL PEROXIDE?
You’ll be glad to know that these five alternative ingredients can deliver additional benefits that target post-acne scars and hyperpigmentation as well as skin ageing:
1. RETINOIDS AND RETINOLS
Retinoids and retinols are derived from Vitamin A, and generally work by reducing inflammation and blockage in the pores. Retinoids are prescribed as they are stronger than store-bought retinols.
Popular retinoid options include adapalene, tretinoin and the newest, trifarotene, said Dr Tan. The bonus benefit from trifarotene is that it has been shown to be effective for both face acne and bacne, said Dr Joyce Lim, a consultant dermatologist from SOG Health.
Whether it’s retinoids or retinols, they both have the potential to irritate skin as they act like a chemical scrub, said Dr Lim. So, if you’re using either one, it’s best to avoid other scrubs of any kind, other retinoids and retinols, exfoliating acids such as AHAs or BHAs, and strong toners to reduce skin irritation. Also, retinoids and retinols should not be used by pregnant women.
And don’t forget the adage when using retinoids or retinols: Use retinoids or retinols only at night and wear SPF in the day.
