MedicineOTCEssential

Hydrous Benzoyl Peroxide

An antiseptic gel or wash used to treat acne.

Clinical information

Common uses

mild to moderate acne

Common side effects

dry skin
peeling or red skin
burning or stinging

Cautions

not on damaged or broken skin
severe acne with nodules or cysts needs a doctor
tell your doctor about any previous allergic reactions

Interactions

other drying or irritating skin products
other acne medicines such as isotretinoin

Pregnancy: can be used in pregnancy

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: NHS Medicines A–Z, nhs.uk/medicines/benzoyl-peroxide (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations6

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
Enzoxid 2.5 Gel	Topical Preparation ( Gel )	0.025	authorized medicine importers	OTC
Enzoxid 5 Gel	Topical Preparation ( Gel )	0.05	authorized medicine importers	OTC
Hydrous Benzoyl Peroxide	Topical Preparation ( Gel )	0.025	—	OTC
Hydrous Benzoyl Peroxide	Topical Preparation ( Gel )	0.05	—	OTC
Pernex AC 2.5%	Topical Preparation ( Gel )	2.5% w/w ( 20g )	authorized medicine importers	OTC
Pernex AC 5%	Topical Preparation ( Gel )	5 % w/w ( 20g )	authorized medicine importers	OTC