How to Use Benzoyl Peroxide and Tretinoin at the Same Time

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The proper timing and schedule for your acne regimen
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Topical tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide are commonly used to treat acne, but some dermatologists warn against using both products at the same time. [1] Previous studies suggested that benzoyl peroxide may reduce the effectiveness of tretinoin, but recent studies show that this is not the case—it’s perfectly safe to use both products, as long as you take the proper precautions. [2] In this article, we’ll teach you how to safely use topical tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide together, plus provide information on potential side effects and when to see a dermatologist.

Things You Should Know

  • Alternate tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide daily for the first 2 weeks to get your skin used to the medications. After 2 weeks, start to use both on the same day.
  • Wear a sunscreen that's SPF 15 or higher every day, since tretinoin often causes increased sensitivity to the sun.
  • Use plenty of lotion to combat dry skin caused by the medications, and always follow your doctor's prescription instructions closely to prevent other side effects.
Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Using Topical Tretinoin and Benzoyl Peroxide Concurrently

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  1. While it's safe to use tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide concurrently, some dermatologists worry that it may cause mild to severe skin irritation. This is because benzoyl peroxide products typically contain a peeling agent. [3] However, studies show that the 2 medications may be combined if precautions are taken to reduce the chances of irritation. [4]
    • Alternate which product you apply to your skin every day for the first 2 weeks. [5] For example, if you use tretinoin on Monday, wait until Tuesday to use benzoyl peroxide.
    • Continue alternating products until 2 weeks have passed to minimize the risk of irritation. After that point, your doctor may advise you that it's safe to use both products at the same time.
  2. After the first 2 weeks, your skin should be a bit more used to both products and you may want to use them at the same time each day. Talk to your dermatologist before making any changes to your prescription medication regimen and ask about the potential risks and benefits of using treatments concurrently. [6]
    • Some studies show that benzoyl peroxide can inactivate tretinoin, so it may be best to apply benzoyl peroxide in the morning and tretinoin at night. However, gel formulations of tretinoin are not affected by benzoyl peroxide and can be used together. [7]
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  3. Tretinoin increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, and it can also cause dryness and redness—especially in people with brown or Black skin. [8] When using tretinoin, apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher every day, and wear protective clothing and hats any time you step outside. [9]
    • Even if you apply tretinoin at night, your skin is still susceptible to sun damage during the day. Stay out of the sun as much as possible to minimize your risk of sunburn. [10]
    • During the first 6 months of use, your skin will be extra sensitive to sun and weather-related damage. [11] Take precautions to shield and protect your face, such as wearing a wide-brimmed hat in the summer or wrapping a scarf around your face on cold or windy days.
  4. To minimize the side effects of both products, apply a mild moisturizer to your skin each day. [12] Tretinoin is known to cause skin irritation, including warmth or stinging of the skin, redness, blistering, flaking, scaling, or crusting. [13] Benzoyl peroxide is known to cause dryness, tingling, and peeling of the skin. [14]
    • Look for moisturizers that are unscented, alcohol-free, and that aim to protect your skin barrier.
  5. Most side effects of these medications are minimal, and will eventually go away on their own with continued use. However, some reactions can be signs of a larger problem, such as a possible overdose of the medication. Seek emergency care right away if you experience any of the following side effects: [15]
    • Pain
    • Burning
    • Blistering
    • Dryness
    • Itching
    • Peeling
    • Redness
    • Scaling
    • Stinging
    • Changes in skin color
    • Swelling on areas where the medication is applied
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Using Benzoyl Peroxide Correctly

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  1. Your dermatologist will recommend the best treatment for your skin type and skin concerns, and the dosage of your specific medication will vary, depending on the strength of the medication and the length of time you take the medication. [16] Follow your doctor’s instructions and the directions on the label to ensure you apply the product safely.
    • Many over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide are available without a prescription, including soap, lotion, gel, cream, and foam. [17]
    • Common brand names containing benzoyl peroxide available in the U.S. include: Acne, Acne 10 Gel, Acne Wash, Benzac, Benzagel, Benziq, and Brevoxyl. [18]
  2. Benzoyl peroxide can irritate the skin, so if you’re using an over-the-counter product for the first time, apply a small amount to the affected area for 3 days. [19] If you don’t experience irritation during this time, you may continue to use it daily. However, always proceed with caution because it is a peeling product.
    • Never use benzoyl peroxide on skin that has cuts, scrapes, or sunburns. If it gets in these areas, rinse it off with water right away. [20]
  3. If you're using a cream, gel, or lotion form of benzoyl peroxide, follow the instructions on the packaging closely. Make sure your skin is clean and dry before applying your product, and only use as much as the instructions indicate. [21]
    • Use a non-medicated soap and lukewarm water to wash the affected area before using benzoyl peroxide. When you're finished, gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel. [22]
    • Apply the product as directed by your doctor, and do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time period than advised. [23]
  4. If you're using a benzoyl peroxide product that comes in a soap or cleansing lotion/bar form, you don’t need to wash your face before applying it. Follow the directions on the packaging and only use as much product as the instructions (or your doctor) recommends. [24]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Treating Acne Safely with Tretinoin

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  1. Tretinoin gel is only available by prescription, and it treats acne by keeping your pores clear. [25] If your doctor prescribes you tretinoin (or any other retinoid product), let them know about any benzoyl peroxide products you currently use, including over-the-counter products.
    • Common brand-name tretinoin products available in the U.S. include Atralin, Avita, Refissa, Renova, Retin-A, and Tretin-X. [26]
    • If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, avoid using tretinoin. Some forms of tretinoin, such as isotretinoin, may cause birth defects or other pregnancy-related problems. [27]
    • If you plan to take birth control pills while using tretinoin, tell your doctor the name of the pill you will use. Some oral contraceptives are not effective when taken with tretinoin, and your doctor may recommend that you take 2 forms of birth control during the entire treatment period and for one month after. [28]
  2. Topical tretinoin often causes skin irritation, especially during the first 3 weeks of use. [29] If your skin irritation becomes severe or your acne shows no signs of improvement after 8 to 12 weeks of continued use, talk to your doctor about possible complications. [30]
    • Avoid applying any other topical medications on the same area for one hour before and after using tretinoin. [31]
    • To minimize skin irritation, do not use any skin products that are abrasive or dry out your skin, including skin cleansers and products containing alcohol. [32]
  3. To ensure you use tretinoin correctly, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not apply more tretinoin in a given dose than your doctor recommends, and do not use this medication more than once in a given day. If you miss a dose, skip that dose completely and wait for the next scheduled application time. [33]
    • Wash the affected area with a mild cleanser and warm water at least 20-30 minutes before applying tretinoin, and make sure to wash your hands before and after using the product. [34]
    • To use the gel, cream, or lotion form of tretinoin, apply just enough product to lightly cover the affected area. You only need a pea-sized amount of tretinoin to cover the entire face. [35]
    • To apply the liquid form of tretinoin, use clean fingertips, a clean piece of gauze, or a clean cotton swab to cover the affected area. [36]
    • Tretinoin is known to cause photosensitivity, so apply a small amount once daily before bedtime. [37]
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    What order should I apply them in if I'm using both at the same time?
    Janice Litza, MD
    Board Certified Family Medicine Physician
    Dr. Litza is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician based in Racine, Wisconsin. With over 25 years of educational and professional experience, she has extensive experience providing full-spectrum Family Medicine, including obstetrics, newborn care, and hospital medicine. She is currently the Residency Program Director for Family Medicine at Ascension. Dr. Litza received her MD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health and has completed additional fellowship training in Integrative Medicine through the University of Arizona.
    Janice Litza, MD
    Board Certified Family Medicine Physician
    Expert Answer
    The order may not matter. In fact, you may even mix both together in small amounts. Apply a thin layer of the mixture on your skin to use both at the same time.
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  • Question
    I have used benzoyl peroxide for nearly one month. During the first two weeks, my acne got better. But in the last two weeks, I noticed my acne worsened. I feel itchiness and burning. Redness and new pimples have appeared. Am I allergic?
    Janice Litza, MD
    Board Certified Family Medicine Physician
    Dr. Litza is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician based in Racine, Wisconsin. With over 25 years of educational and professional experience, she has extensive experience providing full-spectrum Family Medicine, including obstetrics, newborn care, and hospital medicine. She is currently the Residency Program Director for Family Medicine at Ascension. Dr. Litza received her MD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health and has completed additional fellowship training in Integrative Medicine through the University of Arizona.
    Janice Litza, MD
    Board Certified Family Medicine Physician
    Expert Answer
    You may not be allergic. The medicine may be drying out your skin, and your skin might be reacting to this by making more oil. Make sure you are using a cleanser and moisturizer and not just acne medicine. Adding a new topical medicine will improve acne when you have a healthy skin care routine as well.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      2. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2958193/
      3. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      4. ↑ http://www.aafp.org/afp/2000/0115/p357.html
      5. ↑ https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2000/0115/p357.html
      6. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20368048
      7. ↑ https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/benzoyl-peroxide
      8. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20368048
      9. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      1. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521?p=1
      2. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      3. ↑ http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1069804-treatment
      4. ↑ https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682437.html
      5. ↑ https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a601026.html#side-effects
      6. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzoyl-peroxide-topical-route/side-effects/drg-20062425
      7. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzoyl-peroxide-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20062425
      8. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzoyl-peroxide-topical-route/description/drg-20062425
      9. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzoyl-peroxide-topical-route/description/drg-20062425
      10. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzoyl-peroxide-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20062425
      11. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzoyl-peroxide-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20062425
      12. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzoyl-peroxide-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20062425
      13. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzoyl-peroxide-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20062425
      14. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzoyl-peroxide-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20062425
      15. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzoyl-peroxide-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20062425
      16. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/description/drg-20066521
      17. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/description/drg-20066521
      18. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK582989/#
      19. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a608032.html#
      20. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      21. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      22. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      23. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      24. ↑ https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682437.html
      25. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20066521
      26. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20066521
      27. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20066521
      28. ↑ http://www.aafp.org/afp/2000/0115/p357.html

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Using tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide concurrently can irritate and damage your skin, so it's important to alternate between the 2 medications for the first 2 weeks. After 2 weeks, try using the medications at the same time each day. Additionally, use a moisturizer throughout the day to keep your face from drying and peeling. You should also protect your face with an SPF of 15 or higher when you're outside, since tretinoin can cause your skin to be extra sensitive to sunlight. To learn how to properly apply tretinoin to your skin, keep reading!

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