What is the primary ingredient in benzoyl peroxide that helps combat acne?

Benzoyl peroxide is a powerful ingredient specifically designed to combat acne. Its primary mechanism is as an antibacterial agent that targets and reduces the population of acne-causing bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes, on the skin’s surface. Additionally, benzoyl peroxide has keratolytic properties, which means it helps to exfoliate skin and clear clogged pores, preventing the formation of new acne lesions.

In relation to the other options, salicylic acid is an effective acne treatment as well, but it works differently by promoting the shedding of dead skin cells and unclogging pores. Retinoids are a class of compounds related to vitamin A that aid cell turnover and can help prevent clogged pores but are not the primary active ingredient in benzoyl peroxide. Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial agent that can also help with acne, but it is not related to the chemical composition or action of benzoyl peroxide. Thus, benzoyl peroxide stands out as the correct answer due to its unique formulation and targeted efficacy against acne.