Benzoyl Peroxide Cleansers for the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: Status Report on Available Data

Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) cleansers are commonly prescribed for treatment of acne vulgaris. In fact, they represent approximately half of all BPO prescriptions from dermatology practices. Data are limited on the ability of BPO cleansers to reduce counts of Propionibacterium acnes, impact on reduction and emergence of antibiotic-resistant P acnes strains, and efficacy for facial and truncal acne vulgaris. This article discusses available data on BPO cleanser formulations.