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Hydrogen Peroxide

Worst

Irritant

No known benefits

Hydrogen Peroxide at a glance

  • Strong antibacterial/oxidizing agent that can damage healthy skin cells in its wake
  • High concentrations can lead to severe skin (including scalp) reactions
  • Rarely used in modern day skin care but common within hair coloring products
  • Not recommended for acne and dark spots, despite outdated advice touting such

Hydrogen Peroxide description

There is a great deal of current research showing that hydrogen peroxide is problematic as a topically applied product. Hydrogen peroxide is also a strong oxidizing agent.

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Hydrogen Peroxide references

  • Journal of Clinical Medicine, June 2024, pages 1-16
  • International Journal of Toxicology, March 2024, pages 5S-63S
  • The Educational Journal of the British Association of Dermatologists, August 2022, pages 1,543-1,549
  • Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, December 2019, pages 1,379–1,386

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.