PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash - Maximum Strength 10% Benzoyl Peroxide
The PanOxyl Maximum Strength Foaming Wash is one of the strongest over the counter (OTC) acne cleansers available. It is a potent, daily antimicrobial treatment for individuals with persistent or severe acne on the face, chest, and back.
Key Features and Benefits
- Maximum Strength: 10% Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO): This product contains the highest concentration of Benzoyl Peroxide legally available without a prescription. This high concentration is designed to:
- Rapidly Kill Bacteria: It quickly targets and eliminates P. acnes bacteria, which is the primary cause of inflammatory acne (red, swollen pimples and cysts). It is proven to kill over 99% of acne-causing bacteria in 15 seconds.
- Unclog Pores: It helps the skin to shed dead cells and excess oil more effectively, preventing blockages that lead to new blemishes.
- Foaming Texture: The formula comes out as a creamy wash that lathers into a generous foam, making it easy to spread over large areas like the back and chest.
- Dual Use (Face & Body): It is highly recommended for treating stubborn body acne (back-ne and chest-ne) where the skin is generally thicker and can tolerate the higher strength of BPO.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Despite its high strength, the formula includes moisturizing ingredients like Glycerin to help combat the severe dryness and irritation typically associated with 10% BPO.
- Clean Formula: It is generally unscented/fragrance-free, paraben-free, and phthalate-free.
Important Usage Directions
Because of the high concentration of BPO, cautious and correct usage is essential to minimize irritation:
- Wet Area: Wet the skin area you plan to cleanse (face, chest, or back).
- Apply & Massage: Apply the wash and gently massage it into the skin for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the active ingredient time to work.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the area completely with water and pat dry with a white towel (BPO can bleach colored fabrics).
- Start Gradually: For first-time users of BPO, or if you are switching from the 4% version, start by using it once daily or even every other day. Only gradually increase to twice daily if your skin shows good tolerance.
- Moisturize & SPF: Always follow up with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Sunscreen (SPF 30+) is mandatory during the day, as BPO can increase sun sensitivity.
⚠️ Note on Strength:
The 10% version is significantly more irritating than the 4% creamy wash. It is typically recommended for those with severe, deep, or stubborn cystic acne who have tried the 4% or other treatments without success, especially for body acne. If you have sensitive skin, start with the 4% BPO creamy wash instead.