Persol Forte Cream | Greaseless Medication for Acne Vulgaris

Persol Forte Cream is a skincare gel formulated with benzoyl peroxide to eliminate acne-causing bacteria and unclog blocked pores (blackheads and whiteheads). Sulphur helps in absorbing excess oil from the skin.

Key Ingredients:

• Precipitated Sulphur U.S.P.

• Hydrous Benzoyl Peroxide I.P. equivalent to Anhydrous Benzoyl Peroxide

• Preservatives: Benzoic Acid I.P. and Methylparaben I.P.

Key Benefits:

• Benzoyl peroxide can help reduce the appearance of acne and pimples

• It aids in unclogging pores and removing dirt

• It increases skin cell renewal and improves skin health

• Sulphur aids in absorbing oil from the skin and unclogging pores

Concerns It Can Help With:

• Acne

• Pimples

• Excess oil

• Clogged pores

Product Form: Cream

Directions for Use:
Use as directed on the enclosed leaflet or as directed by the healthcare professional.

Safety Information:

• Read the label carefully before use

• Store below 25C. Do not freeze

• Keep out of reach of children

• Avoid contact with eyes and mouth

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Persol Forte Cream primarily used for? Persol Forte Cream is a prescription-strength topical medication specifically designed to treat acne. It is effective against various forms of acne, including inflammatory acne (pustules, papules, pimples), and comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads). It is generally recommended when milder, single-ingredient treatments have not been effective.

2. How does Persol Forte Cream work to treat acne? Persol Forte Cream works through the synergistic action of its two main ingredients:

• Benzoyl Peroxide: This is a potent antimicrobial agent that effectively kills Cutibacterium acnes (the primary bacteria responsible for acne). It also has a keratolytic and comedolytic effect, meaning it helps to break down keratin, exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, and unclog pores.
• Sulphur: Sulphur has keratolytic properties, helping to shed dead skin cells and prevent pore blockages. It also helps to dry out existing pimples and has mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

3. What are the active ingredients in Persol Forte Cream? The main active ingredients are Benzoyl Peroxide (often at a concentration of 5% w/w) and Precipitated Sulphur (often at 10% w/w). The exact concentrations can vary, so it’s essential to check the product packaging and your doctor’s prescription.

4. What is the difference between Persol Forte and other Persol creams like Persol AC? The main difference lies in the formulation and strength.

• Persol AC typically contains only Benzoyl Peroxide, available in various strengths (e.g., 2.5%, 5%). It is a single-agent therapy.
• Persol Forte is a combination product containing both Benzoyl Peroxide and Sulphur. The term “Forte” signifies that it is a stronger, more potent formulation intended for more persistent or severe acne.

5. How should I apply Persol Forte Cream correctly? For best results and to minimize irritation, follow these steps:

1. Gently wash the affected area with a mild, non-medicated cleanser and lukewarm water.
2. Pat the skin dry with a clean, soft towel. Do not rub.
3. Wait for a few minutes until the skin is completely dry.
4. Squeeze a small, pea-sized amount of cream onto your fingertip.
5. Apply a thin layer directly onto the acne-affected areas only.
6. Gently rub it in until it disappears. Wash your hands thoroughly after application.

6. Should I apply it all over my face or only on active pimples? Persol Forte is a potent treatment and is best used as a spot treatment applied directly to pimples, blackheads, and affected areas. Applying it all over your face can lead to excessive dryness, peeling, and irritation, unless specifically instructed by your dermatologist for widespread acne.

7. How often should I use Persol Forte Cream? Typically, you should start by applying it once a day, preferably in the evening before bed. If your skin tolerates it well after the first week and your doctor recommends it, you may increase the frequency to twice a day (morning and night). Starting slowly allows your skin to acclimate and reduces the risk of severe side effects.

8. How long will it take to see results? Patience and consistency are key. You may start to see some improvement in your acne within 2-3 weeks. However, it usually takes 4 to 8 weeks of consistent daily use to see significant and clear results. Do not get discouraged if you don’t see changes overnight.

9. What are the most common side effects of using Persol Forte Cream? The most common side effects are localized skin reactions at the site of application. These include:

• Dryness and peeling
• Redness and inflammation
• A mild stinging or burning sensation
• Itching These effects are most common during the first few weeks of treatment and usually lessen as your skin adjusts.

10. Is it true that Persol Forte can bleach clothes and hair? Yes, this is a very important point. Benzoyl Peroxide is a potent oxidizing agent and can bleach colored fabrics (clothes, towels, bedsheets, pillowcases) and hair. To prevent this, make sure the cream is fully absorbed before your skin comes into contact with any fabric, use white or old towels and linens, and wash your hands thoroughly after application.

11. Do I need to use sunscreen when using Persol Forte Cream? Absolutely, yes. Benzoyl Peroxide makes your skin significantly more sensitive to the sun (photosensitive). You must apply a broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days or if you are indoors. Sun exposure can worsen irritation and cause dark spots (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation).

12. Is Persol Forte Cream suitable for sensitive skin? Due to its “Forte” nature, this cream is generally not recommended for individuals with very sensitive, delicate, or eczematous skin. It can be too harsh and cause significant irritation. People with sensitive skin should consult a dermatologist, who might recommend a lower concentration of Benzoyl Peroxide (e.g., Persol AC 2.5%).

13. Can I use a moisturizer with this cream? Yes, and it is highly recommended. To combat the dryness and peeling caused by Persol Forte, use a gentle, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free moisturizer. Apply the moisturizer a few minutes after the Persol Forte cream has been fully absorbed into the skin.

14. Can I use Persol Forte Cream if I am pregnant or breastfeeding? You must consult your doctor or a gynecologist before using Persol Forte Cream during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. While the risk from topical application is generally low, Benzoyl Peroxide is a US FDA Pregnancy Category C drug, meaning its safety has not been definitively established. Medical guidance is essential.

15. What should I do if I experience severe irritation, swelling, or an allergic reaction? If you experience severe burning, blistering, crusting, swelling, or a rash, you may be having an allergic reaction. Stop using the cream immediately. Wash the area with cool water and a gentle cleanser. Applying a cold compress can help. Contact your dermatologist or seek medical attention right away.

16. Can I use other acne treatments, like products with Salicylic Acid or Retinoids, at the same time? It is generally not recommended to use Persol Forte with other potent topical treatments (like salicylic acid, tretinoin, adapalene) at the same time, as this can lead to severe skin irritation, a condition known as irritant contact dermatitis. If you need to use multiple treatments, your dermatologist will devise a schedule to apply them at different times of the day or on alternate days.

17. Will Persol Forte help with my old acne scars? Persol Forte is designed to treat active acne, thereby preventing new scars from forming. Its exfoliating properties may help to fade the red or brown marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation – PIH) left behind by healed pimples over time. However, it will not treat indented or pitted (atrophic) acne scars.

18. Do I need a doctor’s prescription to buy Persol Forte Cream in India? While availability can vary, Persol Forte is a potent medicated cream. In India, it is often classified as a Schedule H drug, which technically requires a prescription. Although some pharmacies may dispense it over-the-counter, it is strongly recommended to use this product only under the guidance and prescription of a qualified dermatologist.

19. What happens if I stop using the cream? Will my acne come back? Acne is often a chronic condition. Persol Forte controls the symptoms but doesn’t “cure” the underlying tendency for acne. If you stop the treatment abruptly without a proper maintenance plan, it is very likely that your acne will return. Your dermatologist will guide you on how to gradually reduce usage or switch to a milder maintenance product once your acne is under control.

20. How should I store Persol Forte Cream? Store the cream at room temperature, ideally below 25°C. Keep it away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture, as these can degrade the active ingredients. Always keep the cap tightly closed and ensure it is stored out of the reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified dermatologist before starting any new skincare treatment, including Persol Forte Cream.