Epiduo Gel 0.1%/2.5%

What is Epiduo Gel?

Epiduo Gel is a prescription acne treatment that combines adapalene, a retinoid, and benzoyl peroxide, an antibacterial agent. It is used to treat mild to moderate acne, targeting blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed spots while preventing new breakouts.

What is Epiduo Gel used for?

Epiduo Gel is used to manage and treat acne vulgaris. Its dual-action formula reduces acne-causing bacteria, unblocks pores, and minimizes inflammation, making it an effective choice for persistent or stubborn acne.

How does Epiduo Gel work?

Epiduo Gel contains:

1. Adapalene (0.1%): A retinoid that promotes cell turnover, preventing clogged pores and reducing blackheads and whiteheads.
2. Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5%): An antibacterial agent that kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces redness and inflammation. It also helps to exfoliate dead skin cells, keeping pores clear.

These ingredients work together to treat existing acne and prevent future breakouts, making Epiduo an effective long-term solution.

How to use Epiduo Gel

Apply Epiduo Gel once daily, preferably in the evening. Follow these steps:

1. Cleanse your face with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser and pat dry.
2. Apply a pea-sized amount of Epiduo Gel to the entire affected area, avoiding the eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
3. Massage gently into the skin until fully absorbed.
4. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer if needed to prevent dryness.

Epiduo Gel ingredients

Active ingredients: Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% and Adapalene 0.1% or 0.3% depending on the strength.
Other ingredients: Docusate sodium, disodium edetate, glycerol, poloxamer, propylene glycol, Simulgel 600 PHA, isohexadecane, polysorbate 80, and purified water.

Precautions for using Epiduo Gel

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

1. Do not use if you are allergic to adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, or any of the ingredients.
2. Avoid applying Epiduo to damaged, sunburned, or irritated skin.
3. Use sunscreen daily as Epiduo can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
4. Limit sun exposure and avoid using tanning beds while using this product.
5. Consult your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.

Possible side effects of Epiduo Gel

Common side effects include:

1. Dryness or peeling
2. Redness or irritation
3. Mild burning or stinging sensation

These effects usually subside as your skin adjusts to the treatment. If severe irritation or an allergic reaction occurs, stop use and consult a healthcare professional.

Epiduo vs Epiduo Forte

Epiduo and Epiduo Forte are both prescription treatments for acne that combine adapalene (a retinoid) and benzoyl peroxide (an antibacterial agent). However, they differ in the strength of their ingredients, which determines their suitability for different levels of acne severity.

Epiduo (Adapalene 0.1% / Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%)

1. Best suited for mild to moderate acne.
2. Lower concentration of adapalene makes it gentler on sensitive skin.
3. Effective in reducing blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed spots while preventing new breakouts.
4. Often recommended for first-time users or those with sensitive or reactive skin.

Epiduo Forte (Adapalene 0.3% / Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%)

1. Formulated for moderate to severe acne.
2. Higher concentration of adapalene provides a stronger retinoid effect, promoting faster cell turnover and reducing stubborn acne lesions.
3. May cause more dryness, irritation, or redness, especially in users with sensitive skin.
4. Recommended for users who have not achieved desired results with standard Epiduo or other topical treatments.

How to Choose?

The choice between Epiduo and Epiduo Forte depends on the severity of your acne and your skin's tolerance to retinoids:

1. If you have mild to moderate acne or sensitive skin, start with Epiduo (0.1% adapalene).
2. If you have persistent or severe acne and can tolerate stronger treatments, Epiduo Forte (0.3% adapalene) may be more effective.

Both formulations require consistent use for optimal results.

Acne treatment advice

For optimal acne management alongside Epiduo Gel, follow these tips:

1. Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.
2. Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain skin hydration.
3. Avoid picking or squeezing spots to prevent scarring.
4. Stay consistent with your acne treatment plan for long-term results.
5. Incorporate a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage.

How to store Epiduo Gel

Store Epiduo Gel at room temperature, below 25°C. Keep the tube tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

How to buy Epiduo Gel

You can use our online prescription service to buy Epiduo 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 Epiduo 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 Epiduo and Acne advice

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