Duac Gel 3%

What is Duac Gel?

Duac Gel is a prescription-only acne treatment that combines clindamycin, an antibiotic, and benzoyl peroxide, an antibacterial and keratolytic agent. It comes in two strengths: Duac 3% (containing 3% benzoyl peroxide) and Duac 5% (containing 5% benzoyl peroxide). It is used to treat mild to moderate acne by reducing bacteria, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation.

What is Duac Gel used for?

Duac Gel is used to treat mild to moderate acne, including whiteheads, blackheads, and red, inflamed spots. The combined action of clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide helps to reduce acne-causing bacteria and prevent new breakouts from forming.

How does Duac Gel work?

Duac Gel contains:
Clindamycin: An antibiotic that targets and reduces acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) on the skin.
Benzoyl Peroxide: A powerful antibacterial agent that helps to unclog pores, reduce oil production, and kill bacteria. It also has anti-inflammatory properties to calm redness and swelling. The dual action of these ingredients makes Duac Gel effective in reducing acne and preventing future breakouts.

How to use Duac Gel

Apply Duac Gel once daily in the evening. Follow these steps:

1. Wash your face with a mild cleanser and pat dry.
2. Apply a thin layer of Duac Gel to the affected areas, avoiding the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
3. Let the gel absorb completely before applying any moisturizers or going to bed.
4. Wash your hands thoroughly after application.
5. In the morning wash the gel off your face with a gentle cleanser.

Avoid applying too much product, a thin layer is sufficient.
Do not use for more than 12 weeks at one time as the bacteria can become resistant to the Clindamycin. During this break, you can use other creams/gels that do not contain antibiotics such as Acnecide gel instead for a few weeks before going back to Duac.
Start with Duac 3% Gel if you have sensitive skin, as it is milder. Duac 5% Gel is recommended for more stubborn acne.

Duac Gel ingredients

Active ingredients: Clindamycin 1% (as clindamycin phosphate), Benzoyl Peroxide 3% or 5%, depending on the strength.
Other ingredients: Carbomer, Dimeticone, Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate, Edetate Disodium, Glycerol, Silica Colloidal Hydrated, Poloxamer 182, Purified Water, Sodium Hydroxide.

Precautions for using Duac Gel

While duac is safe to use on most types of skin some care must be taken when using it:

1. Do not use Duac Gel if you are allergic to clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide, or any of the ingredients.
2. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
3. Avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen daily, as Duac Gel can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
4. Do not use on broken, sunburned, or irritated skin.
5. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.

Possible side effects of Duac Gel

Common side effects include:

1. Skin dryness
2. Redness or peeling
3. Mild burning or itching at the application site

These effects are usually temporary and subside as your skin adjusts to the treatment. If you experience severe irritation or signs of an allergic reaction, discontinue use immediately.

Acne treatment advice

In addition to using Duac Gel, consider the following tips for managing acne:

1. Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.
2. Moisturize daily to keep your skin hydrated and prevent over-drying.
3. Avoid picking or squeezing spots to prevent scarring.
4. Incorporate products with salicylic acid or niacinamide for added benefits.
5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular hydration.

How to store Duac Gel

Duac Gel is stored in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C) before dispensing. Once opened, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 months. Keep out of reach of children and do not use after the expiry date.

How to buy Duac Gel

You can use our online prescription service to buy Duac Gel online in the UK. We are a regulated GPhC registered pharmacy based in the UK and offer free delivery and next day delivery. Any website that claims to sell Duac Gel without a prescription is operating illegally and you could be purchasing counterfeit / fake medicine.
Upon completion of your order, our independent prescriber will then review your online assessment. If your assessment is approved, our pharmacy team will then receive a prescription and dispense your order, which will be dispatched the same day using your chosen delivery method.

More Duac and Acne advice

If you would like more information on Duac and a full list of it's side effects you can find the SPC: Duac SPC
The NHS also provides information on acne: NHS Acne Information