Hydrogen peroxide for the face - forgive skin imperfections (6 best masks)

Hydrogen peroxide

is a chemical used in cleaning products. Due to its antibacterial and whitening properties, it is used to treat skin problems such as acne or hyperpigmentation. However, doctors do not consider it safe.

The concentration of hydrogen peroxide depends on the intended use. Common concentrations:

• 3% - used in household cleaning products to kill bacteria, fungi and viruses
• 6 - 10% - concentration in some hair dyes and teeth whitening products
• up to 90% - concentration in industrial products not intended for home use

People use hydrogen peroxide to prevent infections in minor wounds such as scrapes or small cuts. However, experts do not recommend using hydrogen peroxide when caring for wounds, as it can irritate and damage the cells responsible for wound healing. In rare cases, using hydrogen peroxide on wounds can cause an oxygen embolism. This is because the blood vessel is blocked by an air bubble and this can be life-threatening.

Useful properties of peroxide

Beneficial effects of peroxide on the skin:

• exfoliates dead tissue without damaging the skin, as mechanical peels and scrubs do;
• eliminates pigmentation;
• promotes facial health and rejuvenation;
• “pushes” dirt from cells to the surface;
• kills bacteria and fungi;
• controls sebum production;
• improves skin color;
• refreshes the skin.

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Operating principle

Once on the skin, peroxide instantly breaks down into atomic oxygen and pure water. Oxygen atoms do not exist in free form and require urgent combination with other particles. By “capturing” dirt and bacteria, oxygen brings them to the surface from the deep layers of the skin.

Free oxygen also has the property of a natural oxidizing agent. Therefore, it should not be used on areas with damaged skin. This increases the risk of tissue death and prolonged healing.

What is hydrogen peroxide

A substance consisting of a double pair of oxygen and hydrogen molecules was discovered by the French chemist L.-J. Tenara back in 1818. Externally, peroxide is a clear liquid with a specific sour odor. It tastes metallic.

Hydrogen peroxide has a simple chemical composition

Otherwise, hydrogen peroxide is called perhydrol and peroxide, which fully reflects the chemical composition of the product. However, its formula is quite fragile. When it comes into contact with water, air, or alkalis, hydrogen peroxide instantly breaks down into molecules. Outwardly, this looks like the appearance of white foam on the treated area or the formation of whitish areas on the skin (but in this case we are already talking about a burn).

Hydrogen peroxide practically does not occur in nature; only small amounts of the substance are recorded in animal and plant cells, as well as in precipitation from the atmosphere. However, such a phenomenon is observed extremely rarely due to the rapid volatilization of a composition that is so sensitive to environmental influences.

Therefore, in pharmacies you can only find hydrogen peroxide, produced industrially through electrolysis of sulfuric acid or hydrolysis of persulfuric acid. The substance is available in glass or plastic bottles with a volume of 25 to 100 ml. Some manufacturers place perhydrol in ampoules or dropper bottles, since the drug is used in medical institutions. Moreover, the product itself contains only 0.25–3% inside, the rest is occupied by sodium benzoate and purified water.

So, it remains to find out why many generations of our residents love hydrogen peroxide so much. First of all, it is worth noting the disinfecting and deodorizing effect of using this inconspicuous liquid. After all, after contact with an infected surface during the process of decay, hydrogen peroxide manages to destroy pathogenic microflora. This implies the possibility of using the substance not only for the treatment of wounds, but also in the treatment of acne and pimples.

Hydrogen peroxide treats acne and skin rashes

Perhydrol can discolor the skin and make age spots less noticeable. Some women even claim a decrease in the depth of wrinkles from regularly rubbing their faces with 3% hydrogen peroxide.

In addition, the drug has such useful qualities as:

• removing toxins from the body;
• stabilization of blood composition and its dilution;
• improving the supply of oxygen to tissues and organs;
• normalization of acid-base balance in the body.

This spectrum of action of peroxide makes it possible to use it in many areas of medicine. But the use of the drug has achieved the greatest success in home cosmetology, since the liquid is a budget-friendly and relatively safe (remember the likelihood of burns) “beauty enhancement” means. The main thing is to take precautions and not get carried away with such a “magic potion.”

Indications, contraindications

Hydrogen peroxide for the face against wrinkles is recommended to be used:

• if your skin is prone to oiliness;
• with frequent appearance of ulcers and large pimples;
• for acne;
• with a large number of age spots, freckles;
• for blackheads;
• with enlarged pores.

Not everyone can use hydrogen peroxide even with caution.

In addition to individual intolerance, there are contraindications to the use of liquid:

• severe dryness of the face;
• the presence of peeling;
• infectious and allergic skin diseases;
• skin injuries.

But on the other hand"

According to its basic characteristics, hydrogen peroxide is a fairly harmless liquid. It can be used even during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

After using masks with hydrogen peroxide, skin peeling may begin.

The main contraindication to the use of the product is only one. Hydrogen peroxide should not be used if you are hypersensitive to the elements that make up the drug (sodium peroxide or sodium benzoate).

In addition, a solution applied for eczema and psoriasis will negatively affect the health of the skin. Dry and flaky skin will also become an obstacle to the use of such a liquid. It is not recommended to apply the solution to damaged areas of the epidermis, since such actions can aggravate the pathology.

Possible (and quite rare - 1 case out of 100) consequences of constant and continuous use of hydrogen peroxide for cosmetic purposes include premature thinning of the skin and an increase in the number of wrinkles.

There is also peeling of the skin that began after using peroxide-based masks. However, such an effect is associated with the regeneration of the epidermis and is considered a variant of the norm. The main thing is to carry out such procedures no more than twice a month, and after that take a long break.

Precautionary measures

To avoid troubles from using hydrogen peroxide for cosmetic purposes, it is important to remember some limitations:

• the maximum content of the substance in the solution should not exceed 3%;
• You cannot use the liquid in its pure form; it is necessary to add softening ingredients (sour cream, vegetable oils);
• It’s better not to apply the composition to the entire surface of the face, but to choose at least the T-shaped zone (forehead-nose-chin) or, even safer, only problem areas;
• before applying the mask, the skin must be steamed and cleansed, since peroxide narrows the pores (and if they are already narrowed, impurities will not be removed from them);
• under no circumstances should the solution be allowed to come into contact with the lips, skin around the eyes and the eyes themselves, as well as mucous membranes;
• If a strong burning sensation occurs, you should immediately wash the mask off your face.

Hydrogen peroxide should be used in moderation and with caution.

Do not forget about using nourishing creams after removing compounds from the surface of the skin. This will nourish the tissues of the irritated epidermis with moisture and soothe the skin.

Advantages and disadvantages

Hydrogen peroxide for the face against wrinkles has the following advantages:

1. The substance is available - it can be bought at any pharmacy, it is cheap.
2. Hydrogen peroxide can be used in several areas of cosmetology: to combat skin imperfections, whiten teeth and lighten facial hair.
3. This is one of the best means for disinfecting and cleansing the skin.

4. The product has fewer contraindications than other antiseptics.
5. Hydrogen peroxide is odorless and tasteless; when it comes into contact with intact skin, it does not burn and feels like ordinary water.

Hydrogen peroxide for the face against wrinkles has disadvantages:

1. Along with dangerous bacteria and dirt, peroxide also destroys the beneficial microflora of the skin - this leads to a decrease in local immunity.
2. Using peroxide too often can have the opposite effect - your skin will age faster.

Expert opinion

• Cosmetologist
• Surgeon

Michelle Ellern

practicing cosmetologist-dermatologist

The use of peroxide according to Dr. Neumyvakin deserves special attention. He explained in detail the action of the substance. He said that the human body is susceptible to attacks by microbes and viruses, it is impossible to do otherwise, we live in a living world. To repel these attacks, granulocytes and leukocytes are created. When “uninvited guests” enter the human body, these cells surround them and actively produce H202, an oxidizing agent made from oxygen and water. In conjunction with blood enzymes, this substance is converted from atmospheric to atomic oxygen, which destroys pathogenic microbes and tissues. As a result, oxidative processes are normalized, immunity is increased, fats are oxidized, and plaques in blood vessels dissolve. Of course, all this cannot but have a beneficial effect on a person’s appearance. Regulation of metabolism and blood purification leads to improved skin condition, regeneration processes are stimulated, wrinkles, acne and other problems go away.

Aisha Baron

plastic surgeon

The composition with bodyaga and peroxide is in no way inferior in its peeling properties to an expensive procedure in a beauty salon.
That's why I recommend trying it. This is a powerful tool. As for oral administration, research is still ongoing and it would be wrong to say that they are unambiguous.

In any case, before you start treatment with a unique substance, you need to see a doctor and get a full consultation. And externally - use it and don’t worry, just don’t forget to listen to the advice of specialists.

Side effects

Side effects that may occur with excessive use of hydrogen peroxide include:

• the skin begins to peel off;
• a large burn may appear on the face;
• the skin becomes more sensitive;
• small cracks may appear;

• Allergic reactions occur (when using peroxide in masks).

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How to use

Perhydrol for the face can be used for cosmetic purposes with caution. The most common method of use, but not the safest, is to use the product as a tonic, which is used to periodically treat and disinfect the skin. Another use option is as part of masks. Both of these options are applicable for different problems.

The solution is often used to make shaving easier, remove hair and lighten hair (for example, in the area above the lip) or on the head. A mixture of the product with ammonia is used to quickly remove hair from the body. Work order:

1. To prepare the composition, you need to take 40 milliliters of peroxide and half a teaspoon of alcohol.
2. To facilitate distribution, add shaving gel or foam.
3. The product should be left on the skin for fifteen minutes.
4. Then the composition is washed off with water and a thick cream butter or body oil is applied.

Recipe with bodyaga

Bodyaga powder must be mixed with peroxide to form a thick porridge. After a few minutes, bubbles will begin to appear in the mixture. This indicates that it is ready for use.

The mask is applied with cotton swabs or discs and lightly rubbed into the skin along the massage lines. Then the mass is left on the face for 10-13 minutes. It is recommended to make masks in courses once a week for 2-3 months.

Recipes for home use

Any woman can carry out procedures using peroxide at home on her own. All ingredients for caring compositions are available and inexpensive. Applying them to the face as a mask or emulsion allows you to soften, balance and complement the effects of the active substance:

• mixtures of peroxide with clay tighten the skin and tighten pores;
• with bodyaga - improve microcirculation;
• with cottage cheese, eggs, potatoes, yeast, honey - nourish and restore elasticity;
• with soap foam, soda and salt - deeply cleanse pores, dissolve and discolor comedones.

As a result, contact of peroxide with the skin becomes less harmful and dangerous for it.

Peelings

If your skin is oily, has comedones and acne, signs of photoaging, and uneven complexion, I recommend peeling with peroxide. Here are some recipes for home treatments.

Masks

There are quite a few masks containing peroxide. They have different purposes - whitening, exfoliating, cleansing, healing - against acne and acne.

Before applying the mask, the skin must be freed from surface impurities and makeup and steamed. The composition should be kept on the face for 5-15 minutes. At the end of the procedure, the skin must be moisturized with cream.

I will give here recipes for some compositions.

Tonic

A toner using peroxide effectively helps fight pimples, blackheads and acne. It is simple to prepare: you need to add a few drops of peroxide to the tonic for daily facial care at the rate of 5 drops of the drug per 50 ml of cosmetic product. Only you can use this composition no more than 2 times a week.

Here are more recipes:

№1.

• water – 3 tbsp;
• peroxide – 1 tbsp;
• rosemary oil – 6-7 drops;

Wipe the skin with a toner, rinse off after 5 minutes and apply a lotion that does not contain essential oils over the face.

№2.

• sterile water - glass;
• peroxide – 2 tbsp;
• apple cider vinegar – 1 tbsp.

The face should be treated with this product after washing; it gently exfoliates the keratinized scales of the epidermis and is a weak antiseptic.

With yeast

The mask can be used for sensitive and dry skin - yeast, reacting with peroxide, protects the face from burns and rashes.

To prepare the mask, both substances are mixed in equal proportions. After the substance reaches a thick consistency, it can be applied to the face. You can keep this mask for no more than 15 minutes. Otherwise, age spots and redness may appear on the face. To prepare this mask, only fresh yeast is used.

With cottage cheese

To prepare the mask, you need to mix the fatty grainy cottage cheese until smooth and add one egg yolk to it. After the mixture is ready, 10-15 drops of hydrogen peroxide are added to it.

The mass should be applied to the face in an even thick layer. If the skin does not have freckles or age spots, 10 minutes is enough, in other cases you need to keep the mask on for 20 minutes.

Conclusion

Hydrogen peroxide is an ambulance in home cosmetology. Procedures with it do not require special preparation and a long rehabilitation period. Just like after a light chemical peel, the skin needs increased hydration and protection from sun rays. Along with creams, I recommend using masks based on sour cream, yogurt, olive oil, non-acidic fruits and vegetables.

When applying mixtures with peroxide, you should listen to the sensations. If you feel discomfort, painful tingling or burning, wash off the product immediately. There is no need to endure in the name of beauty, this can lead to complications.

If you have any questions, write them in the comments.

With potatoes

A potato mask will help fight not only age-related skin changes, but also swelling, as well as uneven complexion. To prepare it, peeled medium potatoes must be grated on the finest grater. Then one teaspoon each of warm castor oil and dry potato starch is added to the mass (you can use another “thickener”, for example, unscented baby powder).

Before applying to the face, add 10 drops of peroxide to the mask. It is necessary to rinse the mixture off the face thoroughly after 10-13 minutes with plenty of water; the remaining starch dries out the skin greatly.

With yolk

Recommended for use on skin that often experiences inflammation and rashes. For the mask, beat one yolk. Then a teaspoon of liquid honey is added to it. The mass is mixed again until smooth.

After this, 1/2 tsp is poured in. hydrogen peroxide. The mass is quite sticky and difficult to apply with fingers or a cotton swab. For these purposes, it is recommended to use a cosmetic brush. You can wash off the mask after it begins to dry out.

With oatmeal

Oatmeal helps gently exfoliate dead tissue and tighten facial skin. To prepare the mask, 2 tbsp. oatmeal is ground into powder using a blender. Next you need to add 2/3 tsp to them. hydrogen peroxide. The mass is applied only to problem areas of the skin for 10 minutes. To increase the effectiveness of the mask, the skin needs to be massaged several times.

If desired, you can add half a teaspoon of baking soda to the mask. In this case, you need to wash it off your face 5 minutes after application.

Effects of peroxide on facial skin

The drug is used for facial skin, primarily due to its antiseptic and whitening properties. Its components, in particular oxygen, cleanse pores of accumulated dirt and subcutaneous sebum.

Peroxide helps fight age spots and also removes dead skin cells from the epidermis. Thanks to this, the skin is rejuvenated and wrinkles are smoothed out.

Note: Using this anti-aging skin product is great if a woman has an oily skin type. If it is dry, then peroxide should be used only as a last resort.

How to remove acne and tighten pores with peroxide

A budget-friendly way to combat acne and tighten pores is a solution of salt in hydrogen peroxide. Both substances have antiseptic properties, and salt dries the skin and tightens pores.

For cooking you need 1 tsp. peroxide add salt on the tip of a knife. After complete dissolution in the liquid, a cotton pad is moistened. The skin should be wiped only in places where acne or blackheads accumulate.

After wiping, rinse your face with cold water several times and apply a moisturizer.

Precautionary measures

Although hydrogen peroxide is non-toxic, precautions must be taken because... A high concentration of peroxide fumes when inhaled can burn the larynx and even the lungs. Only a three percent solution should be used. And if the skin is very hot, apply an allergenic ointment after the procedure.

Excessive use of peroxide can lead to premature skin aging. In addition, you should not wipe your face with an undiluted solution with a concentration higher than 3%. If the mixture is intended for spot application to areas of inflammation, then this is what should be done.

When applying the composition, avoid areas around the lips and eyes. If the recipe indicates that hydroperite tablets can be used instead of liquid peroxide, it is strictly forbidden to increase the dosage equivalent to the liquid solution.

Skin whitening with peroxide

Skin whitening with hydrogen peroxide is recommended in the following cases:

• a large number of scars and scars;
• in the presence of many freckles;
• in case of unsuccessful tanning or use of self-tanning.

If peroxide is used to whiten skin, masks should be applied with caution: the substance should not come into contact with eyelashes and eyebrows.

This leads to lightening of the hair.

1. Bleaching with yeast. A similar mask is used for face lifting, but with additional ingredients it can also be used to whiten the upper layers of the epidermis. Dry crushed yeast, fresh lemon juice and peroxide are mixed in equal proportions. The liquid is applied with a cotton swab for 5-10 minutes.
2. Lemon mask. Lemon juice enhances the effects of peroxide, but it is dangerous due to burns and peeling. Therefore, it is recommended to use such a mask only on spots, on age spots and freckles. To create it, you need to mix the juice of one lemon, a tablespoon of peroxide and a teaspoon of alcohol or apple cider vinegar. Apply the liquid to the face and décolleté with a cotton pad and swab. Wash off after 5 minutes.

   
   Hydrogen peroxide for the face against wrinkles around the eyes should not be applied to all areas of the skin, but only to those that need treatment.

3. Mask with aloe and honey. It is used to even out skin tone with acne scars. You need to mix a teaspoon of fresh liquid honey and hydrogen peroxide. Then the pulp of 1 aloe “leaf”, crushed to a pulp, is added there. The mask is applied to the face for 5 minutes.

Directions for use on the face

Peroxide is an inexpensive and accessible remedy, sold in pharmacies without a doctor's prescription. Its use can help avoid expensive salon procedures or make them less common. I do not recommend using peroxide for those with dry, thin and sensitive skin to avoid irritation and dehydration. But oily skin tolerates well the effects of a substance that can improve its condition as a whole - clean, whiten, get rid of oily sheen, narrow pores.

I would like to draw your attention to the fact that peroxide is not suitable for daily use. Its main component is quite aggressive; with frequent interaction with the skin, it causes dryness and premature aging. Peroxide applications should be done 1-2 times a week for 30 days, then take a break for the same period.

Procedures with peroxide begin with makeup removal and steaming. Apply the composition with peroxide in a thin layer, leave it on the face for 15 minutes, then rinse with water and moisturize the skin with a cream without dyes or fragrances.

It is permissible to use only freshly prepared mixtures; residues should not be stored for re-application.

Cleansing

Hydrogen peroxide is an excellent cleanser. Active oxygen tends to react with any substance it comes into contact with. When it gets on the skin, it interacts with the protective fatty film, dissolves sebaceous plugs, and discolors blackheads. Before using peroxide, you should consult a cosmetologist and dermatologist.

When treating your face, you should avoid the area around the eyes and lips to avoid exposure to thin and delicate skin and to prevent accidental contact with the mucous membrane. Also, do not touch your eyebrows - they may become discolored. To cleanse the face, wiping with tonic and masks with peroxide are suitable.

Whitening

Many women like white (alabaster-tone) skin without freckles or age spots. You also have to resort to bleaching to eliminate the consequences of an unsuccessful tan. Among the various methods of skin lightening, the most reliable and proven is the use of hydrogen peroxide. As a result of such applications, the tone of the face is evened out, unwanted pigmentation is discolored, and scars and scars become less noticeable.

To whiten the skin, use repeated rubbing and prepare mixtures for masks. The latter not only brighten, but also have an exfoliating effect. Fatty and moisturizing components neutralize and soften the aggressive effects of peroxide.

For wrinkles

Contact of the skin with oxygen molecules has some rejuvenating effect. Early fine wrinkles are subject to correction; you should not count on eliminating deep age-related changes.

Applying hydrogen peroxide to your face is comparable to a mild chemical peel. It dissolves the keratinized scales of the epidermis, after their exfoliation, the skin will respond with increased reproduction of new, young cells. This starts the process of regeneration and rejuvenation.

The most radical way to smooth out the skin texture with peroxide is to apply a 3% solution with a cotton swab directly to the wrinkles. The substance must be washed off and the skin treated with a moisturizer.

Basically, hydrogen peroxide therapy for wrinkles involves the use of homemade masks and peels for the face and neck.

For acne

One of the causes of acne is bacteria. Peroxide is known for its disinfecting properties and is used in medicine as an antiseptic. It effectively fights any pathogenic microflora, simply burning it. Active oxygen cleanses pores well, removing impurities and microorganisms from them.

Treatment of pustules involves the point-by-point principle of applying a 3% solution; there is no need to wash it off afterwards. As a preventive measure, the pharmaceutical drug should be diluted in water in a ratio of 1x10. With this solution you can safely wipe large areas of the face and décolleté 2 times a week.

We must not forget that the occurrence of acne is also caused by internal problems; the effect of external influences will not be sustainable without solving them.

Reviews from doctors about peroxide as a way to get rid of wrinkles

Most cosmetologists believe that it is possible to use peroxide for skin imperfections at home, while others believe that it is harmful to the skin. But everyone agrees that you need to be extremely careful with this substance.

For wrinkles, cosmetologists recommend using hydrogen peroxide not every day - it can be harmful to the face and lead to burns and severe irritation. It is imperative to combine masks with peroxide with other cosmetic products for rejuvenation and each time use a restorative or protective product for the skin.

Hydrogen peroxide is an effective facial remedy for wrinkles. But it must be used carefully and always do an allergy test before applying to the skin.

Reviews

Elena Demidova, 25 years old, Yalta:

– I live in the south and we have a lot of sun. But I like white skin and I try to protect myself from tanning. But still my face tans a little. Peroxide bleaching is an old grandma's remedy, and it suits me just fine. I know that you can’t use it often, otherwise your skin will start to age quickly. Curd mask with peroxide is a proven recipe. I recommend it, the result will live up to your expectations.

Shelest Marina, 32 years old, Salavat:

– I generally have clear skin, but sometimes pimples appear - from a cold or before menstruation. I dry them with peroxide and they go away quickly. I simply dip a cotton swab into the bottle and treat each abscess separately. And I also like the result of treating the face with a tonic with a small addition of peroxide. I use it only once a week to tighten pores and lighten blackheads. Comedones do not appear as quickly and in much smaller quantities.