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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Pair them with a benzoyl peroxide face wash and pimple-friendly moisturizer to speed up healing. — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 26 May 2026 The inclusion of benzoyl peroxide points to a need for acne-fighting solutions in bodycare. — Vogue Business Team, Vogue, 7 Nov. 2025 Castilla recommends benzoyl peroxide for pimples that appear red and inflamed. — Khanh T.l. Tran, USA Today, 29 Aug. 2025 Using gentle acne products that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide also may help reduce acne and folliculitis. — Julia Landwehr, Health, 5 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for benzoyl peroxide

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of benzoyl peroxide was in 1867

Rhymes for benzoyl peroxide

See All Rhymes for benzoyl peroxide

Browse Nearby Words

benzoylglycine
benzoyl peroxide
benzpyrinium
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Benzoyl peroxide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benzoyl%20peroxide. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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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.

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