Request a benzoyl peroxide prescription

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Collage showing a woman with acne on her face and a dermatologist and foothills bottlestazarotene cream 0.1%, and a bottle labeled “FOOTHILLS” on a light background with abstract shapes.

Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Amit Om
Dermatologist

What is benzoyl peroxide and what is it used for?

Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication used in the treatment and prevention of acne, papulopustular rosacea and non-infectious folliculitis in individuals 12 years old and older. Because it works differently from antibiotics, bacteria does not become resistant to benzoyl peroxide, making it a reliable long-term option for acne treatment. Benzoyl peroxide works in the following ways:

It kills acne-causing bacteria on the skin
It reduces inflammation (redness and swelling)
It helps remove dead skin cells, which can clog pores¹ ² ³

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How to get a prescription for benzoyl peroxide?

Do I need a prescription for benzoyl peroxide?

It depends. You can buy many benzoyl peroxide products over the counter, but if you have used them before and did not get the results you were hoping for, you may need prescription-strength treatment.

How to get a prescription for benzoyl peroxide online?

You can consult an online dermatologist via Miiskin, if they think benzoyl peroxide is adequate for you, they will write you a prescription for benzoyl peroxide or a different treatment for your skin problem. New patient consultations are $59 and prescription renewals are $39.

Can I request a benzoyl peroxide prescription on behalf of my child?

Yes! Via Miiskin, you can do an online consultation on behalf of your child. Simply select “minor” when indicating your “skin problem”. You will be prompted to answer some questions on behalf of your child and take some photos of their skin.

How to get my prescription-strength benzoyl peroxide?

You can select Foothills as your preferred pharmacy if you want a customized formula for your skin and order it right on Miiskin. You can also choose any local pharmacy if you want a generic medication. You can buy it the same day your prescription is issued.

Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.

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How to request a benzoyl peroxide cream prescription online

Select “Start consultation” to sign-up with Miiskin.
Use the consultation form to request benzoyl peroxide.
If medically appropriate, you will receive a prescription from a dermatologist.
Purchase your benzoyl peroxide in the pharmacy of your choice.

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Process to getting a prescription for benzoyl peroxide online
Through an online consultation, you connect with a dermatologist. Upon reviewing your case, if the doctor determines that a cream with benzoyl peroxide is appropriate for you, they will provide a prescription that you can get from the pharmacy of your choosing.

customized atopic dermatitis treatment backed by science

Dermatologist-prescribed compounded benzoyl peroxide

A dermatologist may prescribe a compounded benzoyl peroxide cream that is prepared by Foothills pharmacy based on a patient’s needs. Simply select Foothills as your pharmacy of choice and your dermatologist will determine the benzoyl peroxide strength and select additional ingredients based on clinical judgment and patient-specific considerations, such as skin type and tolerance.

Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.

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Common benzoyl peroxide prescription creams

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Amit Om notes that dermatologists tailor each prescription by evaluating symptoms, severity, and other clinical factors to ensure appropriate care.

Benzoyl peroxide + adapalene

Benzoyl peroxide + clindamycin

Benzoyl peroxide + tretinoin

Benzoyl peroxide +
clindamycin + niacinamide

benzoyl peroxide niacinamide clindamycin

Benzoyl peroxide +
erythromycin

Benzoyl peroxide +
adapalene + clindamycin

Product packaging shown for visual reference only.

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Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.

Side effects of benzoyl peroxide

May cause skin dryness and peeling
May lead to redness and irritation when applied
Can cause itching or mild burning/stinging sensation
May result in swelling or tenderness of treated skin areas
May trigger contact dermatitis or an allergic reaction
May bleach hair, fabrics, or towels that come into contact with it

How to apply benzoyl peroxide?

According to Dr. Trisha Khanna, a board-certified dermatologist, if you have been prescribed with clindamycin, this is how you should use it.

1. Cleanse gently

Cleanse the skin gently and pat dry before application

2. Use a very small amount

Start with a thin layer to the affected area (face, chest, back), not just individual pimples

3. Use as prescribed

Use a low strength first (such as 2.5% or 5%) to help your skin gradually adjust to the treatment, minimizing irritation, redness, and dryness

4. Do Not Overuse

Apply once daily at first, then increase to twice daily if tolerated

6. Avoid Sensitive Areas

Avoid the eyes, lips, and inside of the nose

7. Moisturize After Use

Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to limit dryness

8. Use sunscreen daily

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) each morning, as treated skin can be more easily irritated by sun exposure

9. Clean Hands After Application

Wash hands after use to prevent bleaching of fabrics or hair

Benzoyl peroxide and other medications

Ingredients that can be used alongside benzoyl peroxide

These ingredients pair well with benzoyl peroxide and can improve results or reduce irritation when used correctly:

Salicylic acid – helps unclog pores and reduce oil (best used at a different time of day if skin is sensitive)

Niacinamide – calms inflammation and helps support the skin barrier

Azelaic acid – reduces acne, redness, and post-acne marks

Topical antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin, erythromycin) – often combined with benzoyl peroxide to reduce bacteria and resistance

Moisturizers with ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid – help counter dryness and irritation

Sunscreen (broad-spectrum SPF 30+) – protects irritated skin and prevents dark spots

Ingredients to avoid or use cautiously with benzoyl peroxide

These ingredients may cause excessive irritation or reduce effectiveness when layered directly with benzoyl peroxide:

Topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene) – benzoyl peroxide can inactivate some retinoids depending on the formulation; use at different times (e.g., benzoyl peroxide in the morning, retinoid at night)

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) – can be destabilized by benzoyl peroxide and increase irritation. Can also leave an orange stain on the skin

Harsh exfoliating acids (high-strength AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid) – may cause over-exfoliation and irritation

Physical exfoliants (scrubs, brushes) – increase the risk of redness and skin barrier damage

What patients say about Miiskin

Very happy with this service. Quick and easy. With someone with not the greatest insurance and super busy. This was perfect. Got my prescription next day and great advice for my condition.

Marcus Liniarski,
Patient Review →

I had a great experience with Miiskin – I was able to get my prescription very quickly and their app is easy to use. It was very convenient and their team is very responsive. I highly recommend them and will likely use them in the future for other skin issues.

Susie Tse,
Patient Review →

What a technology! I was very impressed by the speed of communication with a doctor using the Miiskin app. Losing my hair has been my biggest concern, but I didn’t have the courage to reveal my bald spot to a doctor in person. Miiskin solved all my issues instantly. I just took a photo in my own room, uploaded it, and wrote about my concerns. That’s it. The best part is that without insurance, the consultation fee was much lower than any health insurance. I submitted my photo at midnight and received a prescription the very next morning. The doctor at Miiskin was very professional and empathetic, which really helped ease my emotional distress. Although I’m just at the beginning stage of my treatment and haven’t seen significant results yet, I feel reassured and supported. I will definitely upload my progress in 3 to 4 months to show my appreciation for the prescription from Miiskin.

Jiyeon Kang,
Patient Review →

My dermatologist was extremely quick, reviewed my consultation request within 2hrs and I had my Rx the next day! The Miiskin team also responds within minutes and are very polite and communicated concisely. I’ll never make a in person appointment again after experiencing this outstanding and affordable telehealth service!

Dion H,
Patient Review →

Quick response from the dermatologist — I wanted a fast turnaround for a skin concern that would be more immediate than going through health insurance, making an appointment, traveling to the doctor.

Timothy C.
Patient Review →

Provider & Prescription Information

Miiskin connects patients with independent dermatologists who provide care through their private practices. Compounded prescriptions can be ordered via Miiskin and are dispensed by Foothills pharmacy. Generic prescriptions can be filled at any local or online pharmacy.

FAQ about benzoyl peroxide treatment

Is there prescription-strength benzoyl peroxide?

Dr. Om explains that benzoyl peroxide itself is available over the counter in strengths up to 10%, so there is no higher “prescription-only” strength of benzoyl peroxide alone. Prescription-strength products often combine benzoyl peroxide with other medications, such as topical antibiotics or retinoids, which can make the overall treatment more effective and better suited for moderate to severe acne.

Will acne come back if benzoyl peroxide is stopped?

According to Dr. Om, acne may return if benzoyl peroxide is stopped, especially if acne-prone skin and underlying triggers like hormones or excess oil are still present. Benzoyl peroxide controls acne rather than curing its root causes, so continued or maintenance use is often needed to keep breakouts under control.

How quickly does benzoyl peroxide clear acne?

Dr. Om notes that benzoyl peroxide can start killing acne-causing bacteria within days, but visible improvement usually takes about 4 weeks. More consistent clearing typically occurs after 6 to 8 weeks of regular use, and early irritation or dryness does not mean the treatment is not working.

Does benzoyl peroxide fade dark spots?

Dr. Om explains that benzoyl peroxide is not designed to fade dark spots or post-acne marks. While it helps prevent new pimples that can lead to discoloration, it does not significantly lighten existing dark spots, and other treatments such as retinoids, hydroquinone, or azelaic acid are usually needed for pigmentation concerns.

Who cannot use benzoyl peroxide?

Dr. Amit Om advises that people with very sensitive skin, certain skin conditions like eczema, or known allergies to benzoyl peroxide should avoid using it unless directed by your dermatologist. It should also be used cautiously in young children and avoided on broken or severely irritated skin.

What kind of acne does benzoyl peroxide treat?

Dr. Om states that benzoyl peroxide is most effective for inflammatory acne, such as red pimples and pus-filled bumps, because it targets acne-causing bacteria and inflammation. It can also help prevent clogged pores, but it is less effective on deeper cystic acne when used alone.

Is prescription benzoyl peroxide better than over-the-counter?

Dr. Om explains that prescription benzoyl peroxide products are not necessarily stronger than over-the-counter versions, but they may be more effective because they are often combined with other prescription medications. The best choice depends on the type and severity of acne, as well as how sensitive the patient’s skin is.

Can benzoyl peroxide be used during pregnancy?

Dr. Om explains that benzoyl peroxide is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy when applied to the skin. Only a very small amount is absorbed into the bloodstream, and it is rapidly broken down into substances the body can safely eliminate. For this reason, it is commonly recommended as a first-line acne treatment for pregnant patients. However, it should be used in low to moderate strengths, applied sparingly, and avoided on large areas of broken or irritated skin. Dr. Om advises that pregnant patients should always check with their healthcare provider before starting or continuing any acne treatment to ensure it is appropriate for their individual situation.

Start a virtual consultation to request a custom benzoyl peroxide cream

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References:
¹https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18363-benzoyl-peroxide-cream-gel-or-lotion
²https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537220/
³https://www.webmd.com/drugs/benzoyl-peroxide

What is benzoyl peroxide and what is it used for?

How to get a prescription for benzoyl peroxide?

How to request a benzoyl peroxide cream prescription online

Dermatologist-prescribed compounded benzoyl peroxide

Common benzoyl peroxide prescription creams

Benzoyl peroxide + adapalene

Benzoyl peroxide + clindamycin

Benzoyl peroxide + tretinoin

Benzoyl peroxide + clindamycin + niacinamide

Benzoyl peroxide + erythromycin

Benzoyl peroxide + adapalene + clindamycin

Side effects of benzoyl peroxide

How to apply benzoyl peroxide?

Benzoyl peroxide and other medications

Ingredients that can be used alongside benzoyl peroxide

Ingredients to avoid or use cautiously with benzoyl peroxide

What patients say about Miiskin

Provider & Prescription Information

FAQ about benzoyl peroxide treatment

Is there prescription-strength benzoyl peroxide?

Will acne come back if benzoyl peroxide is stopped?

How quickly does benzoyl peroxide clear acne?

Does benzoyl peroxide fade dark spots?

Who cannot use benzoyl peroxide?

What kind of acne does benzoyl peroxide treat?

Is prescription benzoyl peroxide better than over-the-counter?

Can benzoyl peroxide be used during pregnancy?

Benzoyl peroxide +
clindamycin + niacinamide

Benzoyl peroxide +
erythromycin

Benzoyl peroxide +
adapalene + clindamycin