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Detailed medicine guidance

Using benzoyl peroxide with other medicines and herbal supplements

NHS medicines information on possible interactions with benzoyl peroxide and other medicines, herbal remedies and supplements.

About this information

This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.

Cautions with other medicines

Some products and medicines can irritate your skin if you use them while you're treating your skin with benzoyl peroxide gel or wash.

Do not use benzoyl peroxide with any other medicines that may have drying or irritating effects on your skin. These include alcohol-based skincare products. Always check the ingredients on the label and choose products for sensitive skin.

Do not use other benzoyl peroxide products or other acne medicines (such as isotretinoin), unless your doctor or pharmacist says it's OK. It may cause your skin to become very sore.

Mixing benzoyl peroxide with herbal remedies and supplements

There's not enough information to say that complementary medicines, herbal remedies and supplements are safe to take with benzoyl peroxide. They're not tested in the same way as pharmacy and prescription medicines. They're generally not tested for the effect they have on other medicines.

Meds New IA (H2) - Cautions with other medicines alert

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.

Licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0 ↗. MyPHU is independent and is not endorsed by the NHS.

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