Epiduo Gel for Acne

Treatment Details

Treatment Details
Overview
Side Effects
Directions
More Information

What is Epiduo?
Epiduo 0.1%/2.5% gel is a prescription acne treatment that is available to order from Curely. You can buy Epiduo gel online following a free consultation from one of our specialists. To find out more about acne and see all the available treatments, visit our acne page.
Epiduo is a topical gel used to treat acne and comes in a practical 45g pump dispenser. Epiduo gel contains two active ingredients: adapalene 0.1% and benzoyl peroxide 2.5%.
What causes acne?
Sebum is produced by glands just under the surface of the skin called sebaceous glands. Sebum is a natural, oily substance needed to keep the skin smooth and supple. However, sufferers of acne often produce too much sebum, which can cause the pores to become blocked and infected. Blocked pores can then lead to the formation of spots, blackheads and whiteheads.
What is adapalene?
Adapalene is a topical retinoid. It is particularly effective at treating acne which has been caused by comedones (clogged hair follicles in your skin). Adapalene addresses your acne by inhibiting the keratinocyte differentiation that leads to comedone formation.
What is benzoyl peroxide?
Benzoyl peroxide is a bactericide used to treat acne. It tackles acne by working as an antiseptic. This reduces the amount of acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes) on the surface of your skin.
The combination of adapalene 0.1% and benzoyl peroxide 2.5% in Epiduo gel helps significantly reduce acne breakouts, preventing or reducing future acne occurrences.
How does Epiduo gel work?
Epiduo gel contains adapalene, which is a synthetic retinoid. It works to reduce the growth of keratin surface skin cells that can block pores. When adapalene is applied to an affected area, it will help unblock the pores and sebaceous glands, allowing the sebum to escape. This will decrease the redness, swelling and inflammation associated with acne.
Epiduo gel also contains benzoyl peroxide, an antimicrobial medicine designed to kill the bacteria that can lead to acne symptoms. It also helps promote skin turnover, which will further help clear blocked pores and reduce the bacterial count on the skin’s surface. It is effective at treating blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed red spots.
Combining both these ingredients in a single treatment will help provide an effective means of treating and controlling mild to moderate symptoms of acne. Epiduo has been clinically tested and approved for both short and long-term acne treatment.

Type of medicine	Topical retinoid with antibacterial & anti-inflammatory agent.
Works by	Removing dead skin cells and killing bacteria on the surface of the skin.
Active ingredient	Benzoyl peroxide & adapalene
Strength	2.5%/0.1%
Effective within	1 - 4 weeks
Pack size	45g
Generic	No
Use with alcohol	No known issues

Epiduo side effects
Epiduo gel can cause side effects in a small number of people who use it. Side effects are most common at the start of treatment as your skin gets used to Epiduo.
Common (affect between 1 in 10 and 1 in 100 people)
· Dry skin: If this occurs you can used a non-comedogenic moisturiser (like Cetaphil) to remoisturise the skin.
· Irritant contact dermatitis.
· Skin irritation and burning: You should reduce the frequency of application or discontinue use until your skin is better then slowly re-introduce treatment.
Uncommon (affect between 1 in 100 and 1 in 1000 people)
· Itching (pruritus)
· Sunburn
Ensure you read the Patient Information Leaflet before using Epiduo so you are aware of all the possible side effects.
How to use Epiduo
Apply a thin layer of Epiduo gel to the affected area once daily in the evening. You should apply gel to the whole affected area, not just the spots themselves. Use continuously for up to 3 months.
· You should wash your face using warm water and a mild cleanser or soap before use.
· Pat it dry, rubbing can irritate the skin and cause redness.
· If dry skin or irritation occurs at the start of treatment, try applying Epiduo every other day and slowly work up to daily applications.
PIL: https://images.theindependentpharmacy.co.uk/leaflets/Epiduo-PIL.pdf

Frequently asked questions

What is Epiduo used for?
Epiduo is used to treat acne by reducing inflammation and killing acne-causing bacteria on the skin.
How does Epiduo work?
Epiduo contains adapalene and benzoyl peroxide, which work together to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria associated with acne.
Is Epiduo effective for acne?
Yes, Epiduo is effective for treating mild to moderate acne. Most people see an improvement in their skin within 1 to 4 weeks of regular use.
Can Epiduo cause side effects?
Common side effects of Epiduo may include dryness, redness, peeling, itching, or burning sensation. These side effects are usually mild and temporary.
Can Epiduo be used with other acne treatments?
Epiduo should not be used with other topical acne treatments unless directed by a healthcare professional.
How often should I use Epiduo?
Epiduo should be applied once daily in the evening to clean, dry skin. It's important to follow the directions provided by your healthcare professional.
Is Epiduo available over the counter?
Epiduo is available by prescription only and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Can Epiduo help with acne scars?
While Epiduo is primarily used to treat active acne, some people find that it also helps improve the appearance of acne scars over time.
Can I use Epiduo if I have sensitive skin?
People with sensitive skin may experience more irritation when using Epiduo. It's advisable to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase as tolerated.
Is Epiduo safe to use during pregnancy?
It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using Epiduo during pregnancy or breastfeeding to weigh the potential risks and benefits.