This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain benzoyl peroxide.  It may not be specific to 5 Benzagel Acne Wash. Please read with care.
Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than recommended on the label, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. To do so may cause irritation of the skin.
This medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not use this medicine in or around the eyes or lips, or inside the nose, or on sensitive areas of the neck. Spread the medicine away from these areas when applying. If the medicine gets on these areas, wash with water at once.
This medicine usually comes with patient directions. Read the instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.
Before using an OTC acne product for the first time, apply a small amount to one or two small affected areas of the skin for 3 days. If no discomfort occurs, follow the directions on the drug facts label of the product.
Do not apply this medicine to windburned or sunburned skin or on open wounds, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
To use the cream, gel, lotion, or stick:
Before applying, wash the affected area with a nonmedicated soap and water or with a mild cleanser and then gently pat dry with a towel.
Apply enough medicine to cover the affected areas, and rub in gently.
To use the shave cream:
Wet the area to be shaved.
Apply a small amount of the shave cream and gently rub over entire area.
Shave.
Rinse the area and pat dry.
After-shave lotions or other drying face products should not be used without checking with your doctor first.
To use the cleansing bar, cleansing lotion, or soap:
Use to wash the affected areas as directed.
To use the facial mask:
Before applying, wash the affected area with a nonmedicated cleanser. Then rinse and pat dry.
Using a circular motion, apply a thin layer of the mask evenly over the affected area.
Allow the mask to dry for 15 to 25 minutes.
Then rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.
After applying the medicine, wash your hands to remove any medicine that might remain on them.
You should not wash the areas of the skin treated with benzoyl peroxide for at least 1 hour after application.
Dosing
The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.
For acne:
For topical dosage form (cleansing bar):
Adults and children 12 years of age and over—Use two or three times a day, or as directed by your doctor.
Children younger than 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
For topical dosage forms (cleansing lotion, cream, or gel):
Adults and children 12 years of age and over—Use on the affected area(s) of the skin one or two times a day.
Children younger than 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
For topical dosage form (facial mask):
Adults and children 12 years of age and over—Use once a week or as directed by your doctor.
Children younger than 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
For topical dosage form (lotion):
Adults and children 12 years of age and over—Use on the affected area(s) of the skin one to four times a day.
Children younger than 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
For topical dosage form (stick):
Adults and children 12 years of age and over—Use on the affected area(s) of the skin one to three times a day.
Children younger than 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.
Storage
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.
 Detailed Benzagel Wash dosage information
