Benzoyl peroxide 2.5% w/w: uses, price & cheaper substitutes
Common uses: Mild to moderate acne – pimples, blackheads and whiteheads on the face, chest and back; Red, inflamed pimples caused by acne bacteria – it kills the bacteria and does not cause resistance.
Listed MRPs range from ₹1.03 to ₹3.88 per g across 6 listings.
Price comparison
| Brand | Manufacturer | Pack | MRP | ₹ / g | As on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benzoyl Peroxide Gel IP 2.5% w/wJan Aushadhi | Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) | 20 g | ₹20.63 | ₹1.03 | 19 October 2026 |
| Pernex AC 2.5% | Oaknet Healthcare Pvt Ltd | 20 g | ₹62.37 | ₹3.12 | 19 October 2026 |
| Berox 2.5% | Synnove Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd | 20 g | ₹74.00 | ₹3.70 | 19 October 2026 |
| Bengel AC 2.5% | Hegde and Hegde Pharmaceutica LLP | 30 g | ₹115.92 | ₹3.86 | 19 October 2026 |
| Benzac AC 2.5% | Galderma India Pvt Ltd | 30 g | ₹116.25 | ₹3.88 | 19 October 2026 |
| Persol AC 2.5 | Wallace Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd | 30 g | ₹116.55 | ₹3.88 | 19 October 2026 |
MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.
Uses
- Mild to moderate acne – pimples, blackheads and whiteheads on the face, chest and back.
- Red, inflamed pimples caused by acne bacteria – it kills the bacteria and does not cause resistance.
- Used alongside clindamycin or a retinoid gel in combination acne treatment.
How to take it
Wash the area with a mild cleanser, pat dry and apply a thin layer of the 2.5% gel over the whole acne-prone area once a day to start, preferably at night; increase to twice a day only if your skin tolerates it. Wash your hands after use. The 2.5% strength is as effective as stronger gels with less irritation, so start here. Expect some dryness and redness in the first 1 to 2 weeks; using a plain moisturiser and sunscreen daily helps. Results take about 4 weeks and a full effect 8 to 12 weeks. It bleaches fabric – use old pillow covers and towels and let it dry before dressing. See a dermatologist if acne is severe, painful, leaving scars, or has not improved after 12 weeks.
Side effects
Common
- Dryness, peeling or flaking skin.
- Redness, mild burning or stinging after applying.
- Itching.
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Serious
Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.
- Severe burning, blistering, swelling or crusting – stop and see a doctor.
- Allergic contact dermatitis – spreading itchy rash beyond the area applied.
- Rare severe allergic reaction – swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing.
Safety information
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol has no effect on this gel. Avoid alcohol-based toners on the skin, which add to dryness.
Pregnancy
Very little is absorbed through the skin and it is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding; confirm with your doctor and do not apply on the breast area.
Kidney problems
No effect; safe to use with kidney disease.
Liver problems
No effect; safe to use with liver disease.
Children
Suitable from age 12; younger children only on a doctor's advice.
Missed dose
Apply it when you remember, unless the next application is close – then skip. Do not apply extra to catch up.
Interactions
- Tretinoin or adapalene gels – can be combined but apply at different times (retinoid at night, benzoyl peroxide in the morning), because benzoyl peroxide can break down tretinoin and the pair is more drying.
- Clindamycin gel – a recommended pairing that prevents antibiotic resistance.
- Other drying acne products – salicylic acid washes, scrubs, alcohol-based toners – increase irritation; use one at a time.
- Hair dye and coloured fabric – benzoyl peroxide bleaches them; keep it away from the hairline, eyebrows and clothes.
- Sunscreen – not an interaction but essential, since the skin burns more easily.
Frequently asked questions
What is Benzac AC 2.5 gel used for?
Benzac AC contains benzoyl peroxide 2.5%, an antiseptic gel that kills acne bacteria and unclogs pores. It is used for mild to moderate pimples, blackheads and whiteheads, and is often the first treatment a dermatologist suggests because bacteria cannot become resistant to it.
How long does Benzac AC take to clear acne?
Most people see fewer new pimples within about 4 weeks, with the full effect by 8 to 12 weeks. Some redness and peeling in the first week or two is normal and settles. If there is no improvement after 12 weeks, see a dermatologist.
Benzac AC 2.5 vs 5 – which strength should I use?
Start with 2.5%. Studies show it reduces pimples about as well as 5% or 10% gels but causes much less dryness and redness. Your dermatologist may move you to 5% only if 2.5% is well tolerated and not enough.
Should I apply Benzac AC on the whole face or only on pimples?
On the whole acne-prone area, in a thin layer. Benzoyl peroxide prevents new pimples from forming, so spot-treating only visible ones misses the point. Avoid the eyes, lips and nostrils.
Why is my pillow cover getting white patches?
Benzoyl peroxide is a bleach – it discolours coloured fabric, towels and even hair. Let the gel dry fully before touching bedding or clothes, use white or old pillow covers, and keep it away from eyebrows and the hairline.
Can I use Benzac AC with clindamycin (Clindac A) or adapalene?
Yes, and these combinations are standard. Use benzoyl peroxide in the morning and clindamycin or adapalene at night, or a combination product. Using benzoyl peroxide with clindamycin also prevents the bacteria becoming resistant to the antibiotic.
Is Benzac AC safe in pregnancy?
Only about 5% of the applied dose is absorbed and it is quickly broken down, so it is generally considered acceptable during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Check with your doctor, and avoid applying it on the breasts if breastfeeding.
Does benzoyl peroxide make skin sensitive to the sun?
Yes. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning and avoid long sun exposure. Sun sensitivity plus dryness is the main reason people stop – a non-comedogenic moisturiser and sunscreen fix most of it.
Can I buy Benzac AC without a prescription in India?
Yes. Benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel is sold over the counter at chemists and online. If acne is severe, cystic or scarring, see a dermatologist rather than trying stronger gels on your own.
Sources
- NHS – Benzoyl peroxide (19 October 2026)
- NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam (ceiling prices) (19 October 2026)
- PMBI Jan Aushadhi Product & MRP List (19 October 2026)
Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated
This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms