Among all the elements, it is worthy to mention benzoyl peroxide which is now considered to be effective for the treatment of acne and other skin afflictions. This is how it works- it will kill bacteria, reduce inflammation which commonly causes acne and block the pores. But can it be spread on hair? To answer the question in simplest terms – no, benzoyl peroxide cannot be used on hair and here is why, the risks that come with the same, as well as other treatments that can be used for scalp-related problems.

 

What Is Benzoyl Peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide is an organic compound known in dermatology as the constituent of preparations that are used for the treatment of acne. Presently it can be purchased in creams, gels, and even cleansers without a prescription. It operates by immersing the oxygen underneath the skin in order to eliminate the bacteria that cause acne. Benzoyl peroxide also has a keratolytic effect, therefore it aids in breaking down dead skin cells and unclogging the pores.

 

Possible Reason Why People Might Consider Using Benzoyl Peroxide On Hair

Itching of the scalp is a normal problem, and some people may think of using benzoyl peroxide on the scalp. Scalp acne is familiar as ‘scalp pimples’ and is where the hair follicles on the head become plugged with either oil, skin cells that have died or bacteria much similar to common acne.

 

There are also some diseases that affect the skin of some individuals; for example, folliculitis where hair follicles are inflamed. Thus, although it is clear why benzoyl peroxide might be administered for inflammation of the follicle, still it creates negative effects in the hair’s sphere so it cannot be used for treating the given problem.

 

List Of Consequences Of Applying Benzoyl Peroxide On Hair

While benzoyl peroxide is excellent for treating skin conditions, using it on hair can lead to several risks, including:

 

Hair Dryness

This preparation removes natural oils from the skin; benzoyl peroxide is contained in the strips. Though when applied on the hair, it can also denature the scalp and hair adding to the removal of their natural moisture content. This one can cause dryness and brittleness of the hair and subsequent breakage somewhere in the process. Hair needs both moisture and oil, and none of these is good for hair needs; benzoyl peroxide affects the balance of both.

 

Hair Discoloration

The other giant problem with using benzoyl peroxide on the hair is that the chemical is a bleaching agent. It was observed regarding the use of benzoyl peroxide that it can bring a change to the hair color depending on the initial hair color; it can lighten the hair color. This is because the effects of peroxide are to bleach the hair hence when applied it eliminates or weakens the melanin pigment hence discoloration or patchy hair color.

 

Scalp Irritation

The other is benzoyl peroxide that has been well documented to cause irritation once applied on the skin. The scalp harbors more sensitive tissues and follicles which can turn to be irritated, itchy or flaky on application of benzoyl peroxide. This may worsen diseases such as dandruff or psoriasis that people may be suffering from. Implementing its use may not help enhance scalp conditions as one may be made to understand but instead harm them.

 

Chemical Reactions With Hair Products

Cosmetics that are applied on the hairs such as conditioners, gels, and sprays contain chemicals that may not be compatible with benzoyl peroxide. This could result in more inflammation of the scalp, general hair loss, or other side effects such as buildup of product on the hair. Benzoyl peroxide is a Chemical substance which should not be combined with other products in your hair care program because it can throw off the pH level.

 

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Other Forms Of Topical Therapy In Scalp Acne And Folliculitis

Despite this, there are numerous other products and substances which are used for treatment of scalp acne and folliculitis without harming the hair.

 

Salicylic Acid

It is a commonly known beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is usually used In acne products. It is not by oxidative fading as is benzoyl peroxide but has exfoliating properties to help with the problems associated with clogged pores and is better suited for use on the scalp. Most anti-dandruff shampoos also have some combination of ingredients such as salicylic acid, propylene glycol, coal tar and others that effectively remove oil and dead skin cells from the scalp without adversely affecting the hair.

 

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil acts as an antiseptic and discourages inflammation of the skin as well. Selenium sulfide is used with popularity in shampoos and scalp treatments due to this side effect and also due to its antibacterial properties. Here’s the best evidence comparing tea tree oil to benzoyl peroxide: Tea tree oil for the treatment of scalp acne is safer than benzoyl peroxide.

 

Zinc Pyrithione

Another example of active compound used in most of the anti-dandruff shampoos is zinc pyrithione. It also possesses antibacterial as well as antifungal properties to this help in the treatment of conditions such as scalp acne, folliculitis and dandruff. It contains no adverse effects on the hair and scalp thus regarded as appropriate for use in treating scalp problems rather than benzoyl peroxide.

 

Taking Care Of Your Scalp- The Foundation Of Good Hair

The best mode to prevent acne, irritation or folliculitis is to ensure good hygiene of hair. Here are some tips for proper scalp care:

 

Keep Your Scalp Clean

Taking your hair through a wash with a mild shampoo often tends to reduce the level of oil, dirt and other products that may tend to accumulate and clog hair follicles. Choose shampoos without sulfate and include healthy ingredients for the scalp for appropriate care.

 

Avoid Overwashing

As much as hygiene is desirable, washing your hair too often can deprive the scalp of the necessary oils resulting in dryness and inflammation. It is particularly advisable to wash less especially if your hair is not very oily and dirty – try to adjust the washing frequency to your hair type.

 

Tips For Selecting Hair Care Products

It is advisable to minimize the use of cosmetic products such as conditioner, gel, mousse and hair spray since these products block skin pores on the head. Try those that do not cause an accumulation of debris on the skin’s surface; this is called non-acne genic. As for extras to look for on the label, it’s good to find products with such ingredients as salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, or tea tree oil for the scalp.

 

Conclusion

This is a common prescription medication used in cases of acne on the face and the body but is not advised to be used on the hair or on the scalp. Hair dries out, loses its natural color and causes the scalp to become irritated. It is always advisable to seek a dermatologist for advice on the best care to give to the scalp and only use quality products that are gentle on the scalp.

 

Please book an appointment with the best Dermatologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find the verified doctor for your disease.