Stridex (originally spelled Stri-Dex) is an American acne treatment and prevention medicine, originally a registered trademark of Bayer Corporation.[1] It comes in the form of fibrous pads saturated with astringents.[2] Most products in the Stridex line contain as the active ingredient salicylic acid (0.5–2.5%); Stridex Power Pads contain benzoyl peroxide (2.5%), a nonprescription acne treatment medication.[3] However, they also warn about possible side effects: dryness of the skin, possible burning, and tingling. In 2013, the FDA started to investigate a possible link between benzoyl peroxide- and/or salicylic acid-based acne prevention medicine with hypersensitivity and anaphylactic reactions without calling off any products or placing warnings.[4]
Stridex was first released in 1959 by Lehn & Fink and was the first acne treatment pad which did not require a prescription for purchase. It is part of the Smithsonian's permanent collection.[5][6] In 1996, it was purchased by Blistex, Inc.[6][7]
References
- Individually packaged disposable single acne pad^
- Cosmetic pad for removing low tension substances and applying cosmetics^
- Yvette C. Terrie. Acne Vulgaris: The Most Common Dermatologic Disorder Pharmacy Times, 12 May 2014, retrieved 27 June 2025^