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CAS 94-36-0

Benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is a common acne-treatment ingredient and an industrial oxidizer used to make plastics. It can irritate skin, eyes, and lungs if not handled carefully [1][2].

Where It Comes From

Over-the-counter acne gels, creams, and washes; workplaces where it’s used as a curing/polymerization agent for plastics, resins, and fiberglass products [1][2].

How You Are Exposed

Skin contact from acne products, accidental eye contact, or breathing dust or mists during manufacturing, mixing, or cleanup at work [1][2].

Why It Matters

Can cause skin and eye irritation or allergic contact dermatitis; inhaling dust irritates the nose and throat and may worsen asthma. IARC: not classifiable as to carcinogenicity in humans (Group 3) [1][2].

Who Is at Risk

Workers handling benzoyl peroxide powders/pastes; people with sensitive skin, eczema, or asthma; frequent users of acne products, especially at higher strengths [1][2][3].

How to Lower Your Exposure

For acne, follow the label, start with a small test area, use the lowest effective strength, avoid eyes and broken skin, and wash hands after use [3]. At work, use local exhaust, minimize dust, store away from heat, and wear gloves/eye protection per your safety data sheet [1].

References

  1. [1]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Benzoyl peroxide. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/npgd0056.html
  2. [2]IARC Monographs. Benzoyl peroxide (Group 3). https://monographs.iarc.who.int/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/mono71-23.pdf
  3. [3]U.S. FDA. Drug Safety Communication: Rare hypersensitivity reactions with certain OTC topical acne products. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-drug-safety-communication-fda-warns-rare-serious-hypersensitivity-reactions-certain-over-counter-topical-acne-products

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