Epiduo/Epiduo Forte

Patient Information Sheet: Epiduo Gel

What is Epiduo Gel?

Epiduo Gel is a prescription medication used for the treatment of acne vulgaris. It contains two active ingredients: adapalene, a retinoid that helps to unclog pores and reduce inflammation, and benzoyl peroxide, which has antibacterial properties to kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin.

How Does Epiduo Gel Work?

Epiduo Gel works by targeting multiple aspects of acne formation. Adapalene helps to prevent the formation of new acne lesions by promoting skin cell turnover and preventing the clogging of pores. Benzoyl peroxide works to eliminate acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface and reduce inflammation.

How to Use Epiduo Gel

  1. Wash Your Face: Before applying Epiduo Gel, wash your face with a mild gentle cleanser and pat it dry. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleansers or exfoliators, as they may irritate the skin.
  2. Apply a Pea-sized Amount: Dispense a pea-sized amount of Epiduo Gel onto your fingertip. This amount is usually enough to cover the entire face. Avoid using larger amounts, as this can increase the risk of irritation.
  3. Apply Evenly: Gently apply the gel to the entire face, spreading it evenly in a thin layer. Avoid getting the gel in your eyes, mouth, or nostrils, and wash your hands thoroughly after application.
  4. Frequency: Apply at night. Start 3 nights a week for one month. If you are tolerating it well, increase the frequency of application. The goal is use Epiduo Gel daily. is typically used once daily, preferably in the evening before bedtime. Using it more frequently than recommended can increase the risk of irritation and dryness.
  5. Moisturise: If you experience dryness or irritation, you can apply a non-comedogenic moisturiser after applying Epiduo Gel. This can help to alleviate dryness and discomfort without interfering with the medication’s effectiveness.
  6. Wash Off in the Morning: Wash your face in the morning with either plain water or a gentle cleanser.
  7. Sun Protection: Because retinoids like adapalene can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, it’s important to use sunscreen during the day, even if you apply Epiduo Gel only at night. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it every morning before sun exposure.
  8. Be Patient: It may take 2 to 3 months to see noticeable improvement in your acne with Epiduo Gel. Stick to your treatment regimen even if you don’t see immediate results.

Potential Side Effects

Like all medications, Epiduo Gel may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects may include:

  • Dryness
  • Redness
  • Peeling or flaking of the skin
  • Burning or stinging sensation
  • Irritation
  • Bleaching of linen and towels

If you develop any irritation

  • reduce the number of nights you use it
  • apply a non-comedogenic moisturiser
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