Acnecide Face Wash 50g

Acnecide Face Wash 50g

Medicated 5% Benzoyl Peroxide Face Wash for the Treatment of Mild Acne

Acnecide Face Wash 50g is a pharmacy medicine containing 5% benzoyl peroxide to treat mild acne. It helps reduce acne-causing bacteria, unclog pores and remove excess oil from the skin. Its wash-off formula offers an effective alternative to leave-on acne treatments and is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over.

Overview

Acnecide Face Wash is a clinically proven acne treatment designed to help clear existing spots while helping to prevent new breakouts. Its active ingredient, benzoyl peroxide 5%, works by reducing the bacteria associated with acne and helping to remove dead skin cells and excess sebum that can block pores.

Unlike a standard facial cleanser, Acnecide Face Wash is a medicated treatment. The wash is applied to wet skin, left in contact with the affected area for a short time, then rinsed away. With regular use, it can improve the appearance of blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed spots while supporting clearer-looking skin over time.

Quick Highlights

• Pharmacy medicine for the treatment of mild acne
• Contains 5% benzoyl peroxide
• Helps reduce acne-causing bacteria
• Helps unblock pores
• Removes excess oil from the skin
• Wash-off medicated formulation
• Suitable for facial acne
• Can also be used on acne affecting the chest and back
• Suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over
• 50g tube
• Helps reduce blackheads and whiteheads
• Trusted Acnecide acne treatment

Product Facts

Who Is It For?

Acnecide Face Wash is suitable for:

• Adults with mild acne
• Teenagers aged 12 years and over experiencing acne
• People with oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
• Those affected by blackheads and whiteheads
• Individuals with mild acne affecting the face, chest or back
• People looking for a wash-off medicated acne treatment

If you have severe acne, acne causing scarring, or widespread acne that has not responded to over-the-counter treatment, speak to your GP or pharmacist, as prescription treatment may be more appropriate.

Key Benefits

• Treats mild acne.
• Helps reduce acne-causing bacteria.
• Helps unblock clogged pores.
• Removes excess oil from the skin.
• Helps improve blackheads and whiteheads.
• Helps reduce inflammatory spots associated with mild acne.
• Supports clearer-looking skin with regular use.
• Wash-off formulation may be suitable for those who find leave-on products irritating.

Why Choose This Product?

Acnecide Face Wash contains benzoyl peroxide, one of the most widely recommended over-the-counter acne treatments. Rather than simply cleansing the skin, it works on several causes of acne by reducing bacteria, helping to unblock pores and decreasing excess oil.

The wash-off formulation makes it easy to incorporate into a daily skincare routine and may be better tolerated by people who experience dryness from leave-on benzoyl peroxide products. When used consistently as directed, it can help improve skin clarity and reduce future breakouts.

Helpful Product Information

Quick Answer

Acnecide Face Wash is a medicated 5% benzoyl peroxide wash used to treat mild acne by reducing acne-causing bacteria, unclogging pores and helping to control excess oil.

Common Questions

Is Acnecide Face Wash the same as a normal cleanser?

No. It is a pharmacy medicine specifically formulated to treat mild acne. Unlike cosmetic cleansers, it contains 5% benzoyl peroxide to target the underlying causes of acne.

How long should I leave it on my skin?

After applying to wet skin, gently massage the affected area and leave the wash on for 1–2 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water.

Trust & Pharmacist Advice

Benzoyl peroxide remains one of the most effective first-line treatments for mild acne and is recommended in acne treatment guidelines. It is normal for improvement to take several weeks, so consistency is important.

When starting Acnecide Face Wash:

• Begin with once-daily or alternate-day use to allow your skin to adjust.
• Mild dryness, redness or peeling is common during the first few weeks.
• Use a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser if your skin becomes dry.
• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day, as treated skin may become more sensitive to sunlight.
• Avoid using harsh exfoliants, alcohol-based toners or multiple acne treatments unless advised by a healthcare professional.
• Benzoyl peroxide can bleach clothing, towels, bedding and hair, so rinse thoroughly and wash your hands after use.
• Avoid contact with the eyes, lips and inside the nose.
• If irritation becomes severe or signs of an allergic reaction develop, stop using the product and seek medical advice.
• If your acne is causing scarring, is widespread or has not improved after 6–8 weeks of appropriate treatment, consult your GP or pharmacist for further assessment.

Not Suitable For

Do not use Acnecide Face Wash if you:

• Are allergic to benzoyl peroxide or any of the ingredients.
• Are under 12 years of age.
• Have severely damaged or broken skin unless advised by a healthcare professional.

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How to Use

Adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over:

1. Wet the affected skin.
2. Apply a small amount of the face wash.
3. Gently massage into the affected areas.
4. Leave in contact with the skin for 1–2 minutes.
5. Rinse thoroughly with water and pat dry.

When starting treatment, use once daily on alternate days for the first few applications. If well tolerated, increase to once daily and then, if required, up to twice daily as directed in the patient information leaflet.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient

• Benzoyl Peroxide 5% w/w

Other Ingredients

Contains a blend of cleansing and formulation ingredients including acrylates copolymer, glycerol, carbomer, sodium hydroxide, purified water and surfactants. Refer to the patient information leaflet for the full ingredient list.

Active Ingredients

Warnings

• Always read the label and patient information leaflet before use.
• For external use only.
• Avoid contact with the eyes, eyelids, lips and other mucous membranes.
• May cause dryness, peeling, redness or mild skin irritation, particularly during the first few weeks.
• May bleach clothing, towels, bedding and hair.
• Stop using the product and seek medical advice if severe skin irritation or signs of an allergic reaction occur.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.

Delivery in Ireland

Order Acnecide Face Wash 50g online from Lir Pharmacy for fast, reliable delivery throughout Ireland. We carefully pack every order to help ensure it arrives in excellent condition. Our pharmacy team is available to provide professional advice on acne treatments, skincare routines and choosing the most appropriate products for your skin. Continue using your treatment consistently as directed and always read the patient information leaflet before use.

FAQs

1. What is Acnecide Face Wash used for?

Acnecide Face Wash is used for the treatment of mild acne. It contains 5% benzoyl peroxide, which helps reduce the bacteria associated with acne while also helping to remove excess oil and dead skin cells that can block pores. With regular use, it can improve blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed spots. As acne treatments work gradually, it may take several weeks of consistent use before you notice a significant improvement in your skin.

2. How long does Acnecide Face Wash take to work?

Many people begin to notice an improvement within 2 to 4 weeks, although it can take up to 6 weeks or longer for the full benefits to become apparent. Acne develops over time and also takes time to improve. Continue using the product as directed unless you experience severe irritation. If your acne has not improved after several weeks of appropriate use, speak with your GP or pharmacist for further advice.

3. Can I use Acnecide Face Wash every day?

Yes. Most people gradually build up to daily use. When starting treatment, it's recommended to use the wash once daily on alternate days for the first few applications to allow your skin to adjust. If your skin tolerates it well, you can increase to once daily and, if necessary, twice daily according to the patient information leaflet. If excessive dryness or irritation develops, reduce the frequency of use until your skin settles.

4. Can Acnecide Face Wash make my acne worse before it gets better?

Some people experience temporary dryness, peeling or mild irritation during the first few weeks of treatment. This does not necessarily mean the medicine is making your acne worse. As your skin adjusts, these symptoms usually improve. Using a gentle moisturiser and avoiding harsh skincare products can help reduce irritation. If you develop severe redness, blistering or swelling, stop using the product and seek medical advice.

5. Should I use a moisturiser with Acnecide Face Wash?

Yes. Benzoyl peroxide can cause dryness, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. Using a gentle, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser after cleansing can help maintain your skin barrier without blocking pores. Moisturising regularly often improves comfort and makes it easier to continue treatment consistently, which is important for achieving the best results.

6. Can I use Acnecide Face Wash with other acne treatments?

It depends on the products you are using. Combining multiple acne treatments, such as retinoids, salicylic acid or exfoliating acids, may increase dryness and irritation. If you wish to use more than one acne treatment, introduce them gradually or use them at different times of the day where appropriate. If you're unsure, speak with your pharmacist or GP before combining treatments.

7. Is Acnecide Face Wash suitable for sensitive skin?

Acnecide can be used by some people with sensitive skin, but benzoyl peroxide may cause irritation. Starting with less frequent application and using a suitable moisturiser can help improve tolerance. If your skin is very sensitive, has eczema or is already inflamed from another condition, seek advice from your pharmacist or GP before using this medicine.

8. Can I use makeup while using Acnecide Face Wash?

Yes. You can continue wearing makeup while treating acne, but it's best to choose products labelled non-comedogenic or oil-free, as these are less likely to block pores. Always remove makeup thoroughly before using Acnecide Face Wash, and avoid heavy or greasy cosmetics that may contribute to breakouts.

9. Can Acnecide Face Wash be used on the chest and back?

Yes. Although commonly used for facial acne, Acnecide Face Wash can also be used on acne affecting the chest and back. These areas often produce more oil and may benefit from a wash-off treatment that can be easily incorporated into your shower routine. Use the product as directed and avoid broken or severely irritated skin.

10. Does Acnecide Face Wash bleach towels and clothing?

Yes. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics, coloured towels, bedding and even hair. Rinse the product off thoroughly after use, wash your hands carefully and allow your skin to dry before dressing. Many people prefer using white towels and pillowcases while using benzoyl peroxide products to reduce the risk of accidental bleaching.

11. Can teenagers use Acnecide Face Wash?

Yes. Acnecide Face Wash is suitable for adolescents aged 12 years and over who have mild acne. Acne is extremely common during the teenage years, and early treatment may help improve spots while reducing the risk of long-term scarring. If acne is severe, painful, widespread or causing permanent marks, medical assessment is recommended as prescription treatments may be needed.

12. When should I see my GP about acne?

Speak to your GP if your acne is severe, causing scarring, affecting large areas of your body, or having a significant impact on your confidence or mental wellbeing. You should also seek medical advice if over-the-counter treatments such as Acnecide have not improved your acne after around 6 to 8 weeks of consistent use. Your GP may recommend prescription-strength creams, antibiotics or other treatments depending on the type and severity of your acne.