Benzac AC 5% Gel

Benzac AC 5% Gel is a topical gel whose active ingredient is benzoyl peroxide at 5%. Benzoyl peroxide is a well-established topical agent and is widely used in external skin products. The gel is clear to slightly opaque and is formulated for application to the skin.

When applied to the skin, benzoyl peroxide breaks down and releases oxygen, which creates an environment that is unfavourable to certain bacteria. It also has a mild keratolytic (peeling) effect, which loosens the outer layer of the skin. The water-based gel also contains glycerin, acrylates copolymer, carbomer, sodium hydroxide, disodium edetate, docusate sodium, propylene glycol, colloidal silica and purified water.

Benzac AC 5% Gel is available through DoctorOnCall for delivery in Malaysia and Singapore and is sold over the counter. Because benzoyl peroxide can bleach hair, fabrics and coloured materials, customers should handle it with care. Please read the leaflet, follow the directions and speak to a pharmacist before use if you have very sensitive skin or use other skin products.

For external use only. Follow the directions on the pack or the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.

1. Wash the skin gently with a mild cleanser and pat dry.
2. Apply a thin layer of gel to the affected area, avoiding the eyes, lips, mouth, nostrils and any broken skin.
3. Start with once daily application, and increase to twice daily only if the skin tolerates it.
4. Wash your hands after application.

Use a sunscreen during the day, as the skin may be more sensitive to the sun. The gel may bleach hair, towels, bedding and clothing, so allow it to dry before dressing.

Adults and children 12 years and above: Apply a thin layer once daily at first, and, if tolerated, increase to twice daily as directed on the leaflet. If dryness or irritation develops, reduce the frequency.

Children under 12 years: Only on the advice of a doctor.

Missed application: Apply as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next one. Do not apply extra.

Do not exceed the recommended frequency. See a doctor if there is no improvement after several weeks of regular use, or if the skin becomes severely irritated.

Store below the temperature stated on the pack, away from heat and direct sunlight. Keep the tube tightly closed and keep out of the reach of children. Do not freeze.

• Common: Dryness, peeling or flaking of the skin.
• Common: Redness, stinging or a burning sensation, particularly early in use.
• Common: Tightness or mild itching of the skin.
• Serious: Allergic reaction such as a spreading rash, hives, swelling of the face or eyes, or difficulty breathing, which needs emergency medical help.
• Serious: Severe skin irritation, blistering or swelling, which needs the gel to be washed off and the product stopped.

• Known hypersensitivity to benzoyl peroxide or any other ingredient in the gel.
• Application to broken, sunburned, eczematous or severely irritated skin.
• Application to the eyes, lips, mouth, nostrils or other mucous membranes.
• Children under 12 years unless advised by a doctor.
• Use together with other irritating products without advice.

• Do not use with other peeling or irritating skin products such as retinoids, salicylic acid, abrasive scrubs or alcohol-based toners on the same area without advice.
• Topical products containing tretinoin or similar may increase dryness and irritation when used together.
• Benzoyl peroxide may temporarily discolour skin when used with topical products containing dapsone.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure; use sunscreen and protective clothing.
• No known food interactions.

• Start with once daily use to let your skin adjust.
• Use a gentle cleanser and a fragrance-free moisturiser.
• Apply sunscreen every morning.
• Keep the gel away from hair, clothes, towels and pillowcases, as it can bleach.
• Do not apply to broken or sunburned skin.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after each application.

Precautions: For external use only. Avoid the eyes, lips, mouth, nostrils and broken skin. Use sunscreen, and avoid using with other irritating products. The gel may bleach hair and fabrics. Seek advice before use in children under 12, during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: See a doctor or pharmacist if there is no improvement after several weeks, if the skin becomes severely irritated, or if you develop swelling, blistering or signs of an allergic reaction. Seek emergency help if you notice swelling of the face or throat or difficulty breathing.