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

Never mix vitamin C with retinoids, alpha/beta hydroxy acids, or benzoyl peroxide in the same application. —Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 29 July 2025

Additionally, using a gentle, acne-fighting body wash infused with ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, which kills bacteria, and exfoliating glycolic and salicylic acids is beneficial for treating acne and reducing the appearance of dark spots over time. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 28 June 2025

The Proactiv Emergency Blemish Relief product, which contains 5 percent benzoyl peroxide, was distributed in 0.33 oz tubes. —David Faris, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Apr. 2025

Some pimple patches come pre-loaded with active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 20 June 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.