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% or 0.3%, depending on the prescribed strength): 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 thin film of the prescribed Epiduo strength over the entire acne-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.

It is normal to experience mild irritation or dryness during the first few weeks of use. Do not apply more often than once daily. If irritation is troublesome, your prescriber may advise a moisturiser, less frequent application or a short pause.

Epiduo 0.1%/2.5% is licensed from age 9; Epiduo 0.3%/2.5% is licensed from age 12. Your prescriber will choose the strength and assess suitability for this service. For the 0.3% gel, the leaflet describes a pea-sized amount for each part of the face, such as the forehead, chin and each cheek. Follow the instructions for your exact strength rather than using one pea-sized amount for the whole affected area.

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. Do not use Epiduo during pregnancy or when planning pregnancy. Stop treatment and speak to your doctor if you become pregnant. Ask your doctor about use while breastfeeding; do not apply it to the chest where a baby could come into contact with it.

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How long does it take for Epiduo Gel to work?

  Results are typically noticeable after 4-8 weeks of consistent use. Continue using as directed by your doctor for maximum benefit.

• Can I use Epiduo Gel with other acne treatments?

  Avoid using Epiduo Gel with other retinoids or benzoyl peroxide-based products to prevent excessive dryness or irritation. Always consult your doctor before combining treatments.

• Can Epiduo Gel bleach clothes or bedding?

  Yes, the benzoyl peroxide in Epiduo Gel can bleach fabrics. Allow the gel to dry completely before contact with clothing or bedding.

• Is Epiduo Gel suitable for sensitive skin?

  Epiduo Gel may cause irritation for sensitive skin users. Use the prescribed thin layer once daily; ask about less frequent application if irritation is troublesome.

• Is Epiduo a retinol?

  No. Epiduo contains adapalene, which is a retinoid rather than retinol, together with benzoyl peroxide. Avoid adding retinol or another retinoid to the treated skin unless your prescriber advises it, as this can increase irritation.

• Can Epiduo help acne scars?

  Epiduo is primarily designed to treat active acne and prevent future breakouts. While it may help improve skin texture and reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, it is not specifically formulated to treat deep acne scars. For scar treatment, consult a dermatologist for additional therapies.

• What happens when you stop using Epiduo?

  When you stop using Epiduo, acne may return over time if the underlying causes are not addressed. For long-term results, follow your dermatologist’s guidance and maintain a consistent skincare routine.

• How do you use Epiduo?

  To use Epiduo:

  1. Cleanse your face with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser and pat dry.
  2. Apply a thin film of the prescribed Epiduo strength over the entire acne-affected area once daily in the evening, following the amount in your leaflet.
  3. Avoid the eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
  4. Use a moisturizer after application if your skin feels dry or irritated.