benzoyl peroxide

noun

: a colorless to white crystalline compound C₁₄H₁₀O₄ that is used as a bleaching agent (as for whitening flour), as a catalyst for the synthesis of polymers (such as polystyrene), and medically as an antibacterial and keratolytic agent especially for the topical treatment of acne

Examples of benzoyl peroxide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

So, strong actives like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and tea tree oil are likely too harsh and can irritate the bump even more. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 1 Nov. 2024

Henry agrees and adds parabens, sulfates, any forms of retinoids or retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and other harsh exfoliants to the list of things to avoid. —Audrey Noble, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2024

In testing more than 100 benzoyl peroxide products from six states—all commercially available—researchers discovered that roughly one-third of the products contained high levels of benzene. —Elizabeth Yuko, Health, 17 Oct. 2024

Researchers tested more than 100 benzoyl peroxide acne products available at major retailers in six states. —Anna Edney/bloomberg, TIME, 7 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

benzoyl peroxide

noun

ben·​zo·​yl peroxide

ˈben-zə-ˌwil-,

-ˌzȯil-

: a white crystalline compound used in bleaching and in medicine especially in the treatment of acne

Medical Definition

benzoyl peroxide

noun

: a white crystalline flammable compound C₁₄H₁₀O₄ used in bleaching and in medicine especially in the treatment of acne

Note: Benzoyl peroxide is marketed the trademark Epiduo when used in combination with adapalene.