benzoyl peroxide

noun

: a colorless to white crystalline compound C₁₄H₁₀O₄ that is used as a bleaching agent (as for whitening flour), as a catalyst for the synthesis of polymers (such as polystyrene), and medically as an antibacterial and keratolytic agent especially for the topical treatment of acne

Examples of benzoyl peroxide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The manufacturer of benzoyl peroxide product Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel was also recalled due to elevated levels of benzene. —Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025

Pro tip: Pat skin dry with a white towel after rinsing, as benzoyl peroxide can discolor fabric. —Deanna Pai, Allure, 13 Dec. 2024

The second product, Proactiv Skin Smoothing Exfoliator, contains 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide and was distributed in both 6 fl. oz and 0.33 oz sizes. —David Faris, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Apr. 2025

The recall primarily affects over-the-counter acne treatment products containing benzoyl peroxide. —Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for benzoyl peroxide

• acetaldehyde
• acetanilide
• arabinoside
• cycloheximide
• cyclophosphamide
• diethylamide
• dinucleotide
• ferricyanide
• ferrocyanide
• glutaraldehyde
• glyceraldehyde
• hydroperoxide

Kids Definition

benzoyl peroxide

noun

ben·​zo·​yl peroxide

ˈben-zə-ˌwil-,

-ˌzȯil-

: a white crystalline compound used in bleaching and in medicine especially in the treatment of acne

Medical Definition

benzoyl peroxide

noun

: a white crystalline flammable compound C₁₄H₁₀O₄ used in bleaching and in medicine especially in the treatment of acne

Note: Benzoyl peroxide is marketed the trademark Epiduo when used in combination with adapalene.