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

The Proactiv Acne Cleanser includes several effective ingredients, like benzoyl peroxide and hyaluronic acid, to exfoliate the skin, fight acne, and more. —Jacquelyn Smith, Parents, 21 Mar. 2025

However, benzoyl peroxide can degrade into the carcinogen benzene at high temperatures or from UV exposure. —Amber Brenza, Health, 12 Mar. 2025

That product, along with many acne treatments and skincare, is made with benzoyl peroxide, which kills bacteria to help treat acne. —Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 11 Mar. 2025

The brand’s full assortment, which currently entails a benzoyl peroxide mask, a mandelic acid serum, frozen toner discs and a hydrating cleanser, will debut digitally on the retailer’s website on Dec. 26. —James Manso, WWD, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for benzoyl peroxide

• acetaldehyde
• acetanilide
• arabinoside
• cycloheximide
• cyclophosphamide
• diethylamide
• dinucleotide
• ferricyanide
• ferrocyanide
• glutaraldehyde
• glyceraldehyde
• hydroperoxide

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.