[Penetration of benzoyl peroxide in the skin]

Benzoyl peroxide preparations have proven to be effective agents in the treatment of acne. In comparison to the numerous clinical communications, very few reports exist concerning the pharmacokinetics of benzoyl peroxide. The benzoyl peroxide content of abraded horny layers and its metabolite benzoic acid were investigated by high-pressure liquid chromatography after application (1-2 min) of emulsion containing benzoyl peroxide. It was found that benzoyl peroxide penetrates the stratum corneum very quickly where it is rapidly degraded to benzoic acid. No benzoyl peroxide depot in the stratum corneum could be demonstrated.