Benzac AC 5% Gel

Benzac AC 5% Gel is an acne treatment that contains 5% benzoyl peroxide in each tube. It belongs to the topical anti-acne class and is used on the skin to help treat acne vulgaris, including pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. This gel is applied directly to affected areas rather than taken by mouth. Benzac AC 5% Gel is designed for people who need a stronger benzoyl peroxide option under a clinician’s guidance.

How it works: Benzoyl peroxide works by reducing acne-causing bacteria on the skin and helping clear blocked pores. As a gel, Benzac AC 5% Gel spreads over acne-prone skin and delivers the medicine directly where it is needed.

Compared with Benzac AC 2.5% Gel, Benzac AC 5% Gel delivers a higher concentration of benzoyl peroxide and may be chosen when a doctor wants stronger acne-fighting action. The 5% gel can be more irritating or drying than the 2.5% gel, so it is often better suited to patients who can tolerate a stronger topical treatment. Your clinician may pick Benzac AC 5% Gel based on acne severity, skin sensitivity, and how you responded to lower-strength therapy.

• Acne vulgaris
• Pimples
• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Inflamed acne lesions

• Apply a thin layer of Benzac AC 5% Gel to clean, dry skin as directed by your doctor.
• Use only on the areas affected by acne; do not apply inside the eyes, nose, mouth, or on broken skin.
• Wash your hands before and after applying the gel.
• Start with the frequency your doctor recommends; if irritation occurs, your doctor may advise less frequent use.
• Allow the gel to dry fully before applying moisturizer or makeup.
• Benzac AC 5% Gel can bleach hair, fabrics, and towels, so avoid contact with clothing and bedding.

Each tube of Benzac AC 5% Gel provides benzoyl peroxide 5% for topical use. The doctor decides how often to use it, and many patients use it once daily at first, with some regimens increased to twice daily if tolerated; do not use more often than prescribed. Because this is a stronger acne gel than 2.5%, your prescriber may choose it only if the benefits outweigh the chance of more dryness or irritation.

Do not change your dose or stop the medicine without speaking to your doctor.

Common side effects of Benzoyl Peroxide may include:

• Dry skin
• Peeling or flaking
• Redness
• Stinging or burning
• Itching
• Mild skin irritation
• Increased dryness, which may be more noticeable with the 5% strength

• Use Benzac AC 5% Gel only on the skin; do not swallow it.
• The 5% strength may irritate sensitive skin more than Benzac AC 2.5% Gel.
• Avoid using on sunburned, windburned, or broken skin unless your doctor says it is okay.
• This gel can bleach hair, eyebrows, clothing, bedding, and towels.
• Use caution with other acne products that can dry or irritate the skin, such as retinoids or exfoliating acids.
• Tell your doctor if you have very sensitive skin, eczema, or a history of allergic reactions to topical acne treatments.
• Stop using and seek medical help if you develop severe swelling, blistering, or breathing problems.

• Other topical acne products that increase irritation, including retinoids
• Topical exfoliants or harsh cleansers that dry the skin
• Products containing alcohol or astringents applied to the same area
• Other benzoyl peroxide products, which can add irritation

Store Benzac AC 5% Gel at room temperature in the original tube, tightly closed, and keep it away from heat and direct light.