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MEDICAL INFORMATION
Epiduo Key Facts
About Epiduo gel
Epiduo gel is a commonly prescribed topical gel containing a combination of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide as ther active ingredients. Adapalene is a retinoid and is similar to vitamin A. Benzoyl peroxide is an antimicrobial agent and has an antibacterial effect.
Epiduo is available with a prescription for the treatment of acne vulgaris (severe acne) in those aged 9 and above. NowPatient offers Epiduo gel to treat acne only, following an online consultation with a prescribing clinician.
Key facts of Epiduo gel
- Epiduo gel eradicates bacteria that cause acne and breaks down blackheads and whiteheads
- Epiduo gel can be used for 4 to 8 weeks
- Epiduo gel has some common side effects which include dry or red skin. Side effects can be reduced by using a non-comedogenic moisturiser or reducing how often you use it
- It can be dangerous if you use Epiduo gel with certain medications. If you’re not sure if it is safe, discuss this with the prescribing clinician
Who is Epiduo gel not suitable for?
Epiduo gel may not be suitable for some people. To make sure it’s safe for you, speak to the prescribing clinician before using Epiduo gel if you:
- Are allergic to adapalene (Differin) or benzoyl peroxide
- Have cuts, abrasions, sunburn, or eczema
- Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
- Are breast-feeding, as this medication may pass into breast milk
- Are younger than 9 years old
How and where to get Epiduo gel?
You can buy Epiduo safely and securely from NowPatient. You can start a consultation today for free and if you qualify for treatment, you only pay for the cost of the medication. Delivery is made to your home or office from our registered pharmacy.
Our service is certified, safe and effective, and we only ever treat conditions. If you book a consultation with a prescribing clinician for the treatment of acne, you can discuss if Epiduo gel is a suitable treatment option for you.
At the end of the consultation, the clinician will decide if a treatment plan is suitable for you. If it is, the clinician will issue you with a prescription which can then be ordered, paid for and delivered directly to your chosen address by NowPatient.
Dosage and strength for Epiduo gel for acne
Epiduo is available in gel form when used for acne, it is available in strengths ranging from 0.3% to 0.1%. The lower strength of Epiduo should be considered in those with moderate acne vulgaris.
Information about how to use Epiduo gel for acne
Make sure you wash your hands before and after applying Epiduo gel. Wash and pat dry the affected area to be treated. Using a pea-sized amount of gel, apply Epiduo gel as a thin layer once daily. Rub gently into the skin, allowing it to dry completely before dressing.
Do not get Epiduo gel in your mouth, nose, or eyes. Rinse with water if it gets into any of these areas. Do not use Epiduo gel on irritated skin, wounds or on areas of eczema. Avoid using products that cause skin dryness or irritation, such as soaps, shampoos, skin cleansers, or skin products containing alcohol, astringents, lime or spices. For more information on side effects, see the patient information leaflet provided with your medication.
What happens if you use too much Epiduo gel?
If you use more than prescribed, then it can lead to some unpleasant side effects. You should talk to your doctor or reach out to one of our prescribers, if you have used too much Epiduo gel and you experience any side effects.
What are the side effects of Epiduo gel?
Side effects of Epiduo gel are split into common and serious.
Common side effects include:
- Dry skin
- Skin redness
- Burning sensation or stinging
Serious side effects include:
- Severe redness or swelling
- Severe burning
- Severe dryness or skin irritation
- Severe blisters
If you experience any serious side effects, you should contact NHS 111.
If you experience a serious allergic reaction with the signs shown below you should contact emergency services on 999.
- Your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
- You’re breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you’re choking or gasping for air)
- Your throat feels tight or you’re struggling to swallow
- Your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
- You suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
- Someone faints and cannot be woken up
Always report adverse effects to the MHRA yellow card reporting system. You can read more about this here How and where do I report side effects of my medication? – NowPatient
Information about using Epiduo gel at the same time as other medications or herbal supplements
There is not enough evidence to suggest there are any drug interactions between herbal supplements and Epiduo gel. In any event, you should let your prescribing clinician know if you are taking any herbal supplements.
Why might Epiduo gel not work for acne?
Your skin may look worse when you first start using Epiduo gel, because the medication is working on pimples forming inside your skin. Continue using this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it, and use it at the same time each day.
Can Epiduo gel used for acne be used long term?
If you do not see improvements after 4-8 weeks of using Epiduo, speak to your doctor. Your doctor will tell you how long you will need to use Epiduo gel for.
Is there a herbal Epiduo gel?
No. Herbal Epiduo gel does not exist. If you have been marketed such a formulation, it may be fake.
Can women use Epiduo gel?
Women can use Epiduo gel for the treatment of acne, but should not use it if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Should I avoid any particular food or drink when using Epiduo gel?
You can eat and drink normally when using Epiduo gel.
What lifestyle changes can I make to help me with acne?
Lifestyle changes you can make include:
- Not washing affected areas of skin more often than twice a day as this may irritate your skin and make spots worse
- Washing affected skin with a mild soap or cleanser and lukewarm water
- Never squeeze spots as this can cause permanent scars
- Not to use too much make-up or cosmetics and use water-based make-up and toiletries that are less likely to block skin pores
Alternatives to Epiduo gel
Alternatives acne treatments include doxycyline, lymecycline, Duac gel, and Zineryt lotion.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.
The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.
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FAQs
Answers to Popular Questions About Epiduo
What is Epiduo gel?
Epiduo is a prescription-only topical gel used to treat acne vulgaris in adults and adolescents aged 9 years and over. It contains two active ingredients: adapalene 0.1% (a topical retinoid) and benzoyl peroxide 2.5%. Epiduo is applied once daily and addresses multiple acne mechanisms — unblocking pores, reducing inflammation, and killing acne-causing bacteria. A stronger formulation, Epiduo Forte (adapalene 0.3%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5%), is also available for more severe acne. Epiduo is manufactured by Galderma.
How does Epiduo work?
Epiduo works through two complementary mechanisms. Adapalene is a retinoid that normalises skin cell turnover inside pores, preventing the formation of comedones (blocked pores) and reducing inflammation. Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial agent that kills Cutibacterium acnes through oxidative action — importantly, bacteria cannot develop resistance to it. The combination of a retinoid and benzoyl peroxide is considered one of the most effective topical acne treatments and is recommended as a first-line option in many acne guidelines including NICE.
Is Epiduo better than Differin?
Epiduo contains adapalene (the same retinoid in Differin) plus benzoyl peroxide. Studies show that the combination in Epiduo is more effective than either adapalene or benzoyl peroxide alone. If you have inflammatory acne with both blackheads/whiteheads and red spots, Epiduo provides broader coverage. Differin (adapalene alone) may be preferred for primarily comedonal acne or for those with very sensitive skin who cannot tolerate benzoyl peroxide. Your prescriber can advise which is most appropriate.
How do I apply Epiduo gel?
Apply a thin layer of Epiduo gel once daily in the evening to clean, dry skin. Use a pea-sized amount for the whole face. Spread it evenly over the entire acne-prone area, not just individual spots. Avoid the eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. Wash your hands after application. If you have sensitive skin, start by applying every other evening for the first 1–2 weeks, then increase to nightly use as your skin adjusts. Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturiser if needed.
How long does Epiduo take to work?
Epiduo typically begins to show results within 2–4 weeks, though an initial temporary worsening of acne may occur in the first 2–4 weeks (a retinoid ‘purge’) as adapalene increases skin cell turnover. Significant improvement is usually seen by 8–12 weeks. Full results may take up to 16 weeks with consistent daily use. If you see no improvement after 12 weeks, consult your prescriber about adjusting treatment.
What are the common side effects of Epiduo?
Common side effects include skin dryness, redness (erythema), peeling (desquamation), and a burning or stinging sensation, particularly during the first 2–4 weeks. These are expected retinoid effects and usually settle as the skin adapts. Benzoyl peroxide can also bleach coloured fabrics and hair. Sun sensitivity is increased, so daily use of SPF 30+ sunscreen is essential. Using a gentle cleanser and non-comedogenic moisturiser helps manage irritation. If irritation is severe, reduce frequency of application.
Does Epiduo bleach clothes?
Yes, the benzoyl peroxide in Epiduo can bleach or permanently discolour coloured fabrics, towels, bedding, and hair. Apply Epiduo in the evening and allow it to dry fully before contact with fabrics. Use white or old pillowcases and towels. This bleaching effect occurs with all benzoyl peroxide products and is irreversible.
Can I use Epiduo during pregnancy?
Epiduo should not be used during pregnancy. Adapalene is a retinoid, and retinoids are associated with a risk of birth defects. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, stop using Epiduo and inform your doctor. Safe topical alternatives for acne in pregnancy include benzoyl peroxide alone and azelaic acid. Use effective contraception while using Epiduo.
Can I use Epiduo with other acne products?
Be cautious when combining Epiduo with other active skincare products. Avoid using additional retinoids, benzoyl peroxide products, or strong exfoliants (glycolic acid, salicylic acid) at the same time as this can cause excessive irritation. Epiduo can be used alongside an oral antibiotic (such as lymecycline or doxycycline) if prescribed by your doctor. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser and moisturiser, and always apply sunscreen during the day.
How can I get a prescription for Epiduo?
Epiduo is available on NHS prescription from your GP or dermatologist, or privately through online services like NowPatient. It is commonly prescribed as a first-line topical treatment for mild to moderate acne with both comedonal and inflammatory components. NowPatient provides an online consultation with a qualified UK prescriber who can assess your acne and prescribe Epiduo with home delivery.
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