Authored: 17/03/2023
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Epiduo Gel
Overview
Epiduo is a prescription gel for acne. It combines adapalene and benzoyl peroxide to reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and target bacteria.
- Dual-action acne gel
- Benzoyl Peroxide + Adapalene
- Kills acne-causing bacteria
- Apply ONCE daily at night
Overview
Order Epiduo Gel Online for Acne
You can buy Epiduo Gel acne treatment online, from our UK registered online pharmacy and doctor service. After completing your online consultation and checking out, your order will be passed to our UK registered doctors for review. If approved, our pharmacy team will dispense and dispatch your medication to your chosen address.
What is Epiduo Gel?
Epiduo gel is a topical acne treatment that contains two active ingredients, Adapalene and Benzoyl Peroxide. It's an effective treatment for patients who suffer from acne on their face. The dual action helps battle acne on two fronts, helping battle both the acne-causing bacteria on the skin, and the inflammation which can arise from blocked and infected pores.
How Does Epiduo Gel Work?
Epiduo Gel contains two active ingredients: adapalene and benzoyl peroxide. It is sometimes referred to as Epiduo 0.1% 2.5% Gel because of the strengths of both ingredients. There is also a higher strength gel that contains 0.3% of adapalene.
Adapalene is a drug that helps to reduce the blockage and inflammation of pores on the skin. Benzoyl peroxide works to kill bacteria that can cause acne. It also works by softening and peeling dead skin to prevent blockages and help prevent new spots from appearing.
How Do I Use Epiduo?
Epiduo is applied once daily, usually at night, just before bed. You should apply a thin layer of the gel to the affected area before bed. It's important to wash your face before application, then gently pat dry, so you are applying the gel to clean, dry skin. As well as washing your face, it's important to wash your hands thoroughly after application. This is because the benzoyl peroxide in the gel can bleach fabrics and hair.
Epiduo Directions
Epiduo should be applied thinly and evenly on acne affected skin, making sure to avoid the eyes, nostrils, and lips. You should apply it once a day at bedtime. It should be applied to clean and dry skin.
Always wash your hands before and after applying the gel.
How Effective is Epiduo?
Most patients who use Epiduo will notice an excellent response. In trials, over 85% of patients had above a satisfactory response, while 71% had a good-excellent response. It can take up to 4 weeks to start to see a noticeable improvement in your acne. If you are not seeing results after 6 weeks, it's possible that Epiduo is not being effective in treating your acne. You can review your options with us or your local GP.
Epiduo Gel Side Effects
As with any medicine, Epiduo can cause side effects. Most people will tolerate Epiduo very well with no, or very minor side effects, like slight drying of skin. This can often be overcome by using a non-comedogenic moisturiser.
However, like all medications, there are specific side effects to be aware of. The most common side effects with Epiduo gel are irritation of the skin, burning sensation to the affected area and eczema.
Epiduo Gel can cause your skin to become more sensitive to the sun. Avoid exposing your skin to the sun for too long and also avoid UV lamps during treatment.
See the patient information leaflet for a complete list of possible side effects.
Alternatives to Epiduo Gel
There are other treatments for acne available at Simple Online Pharmacy and other sources. Via our online acne clinic service, the following treatments can be prescribed by our doctors.
- Differin Gel (Adapalene)
- Duac Gel (Topical antibiotic & benzoyl peroxide)
- Lymecycline (Oral antibiotic)
- Zineryt (Topical antibiotic)
- Acnecide (Benzoyl peroxide)
If you have not yet tried any over the counter treatments, there are also a number of options to get started when trying to battle acne. Skin wash brands such as Clearasil, Witch, Freederm and Salcura are all popular acne brands.
As well as offering washes, they also have products to battle individual spots, zits and blackheads, and regular treatment gels, such as Freederm treatment gel.
As well as pharmacy medicines, other treatment options for acne include
- Herbal medicines
- High dose vitamin treatments
- Homoeopathic treatments
- Isotretinoin | Accutane. A specialist drug, available only via a face to face consultation.
Other Medicines and Epiduo Gel
When using Epiduo, you should not use other topical acne treatments that contain similar ingredients. It’s also recommended to avoid using drying, irritating, or exfoliating cosmetics at the same time as Epiduo.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant you should not use Epiduo Gel. If you become pregnant during treatment with Epiduo, you should stop using it immediately and seek medical attention from your doctor.
Epiduo is safe to use if you are breastfeeding, but you should avoid applying it to your chest.
Epiduo Gel Summary
| Dose | Apply to the skin ONCE daily, usually at night |
| Mechanism | Reduces acne inflammation and pore blockage while killing acne-causing bacteria |
| Active Ingredient | 0.1% adapalene & 2.5% benzoyl peroxide |
| Price | from £25.95 |
| Side Effects | Can include skin irritation, a slight burning sensation, eczema |
Epiduo Gel Prices
| 1 x 45g | £25.95 |
| 2 x 45g | £45.95 |
| 3 x 45g | £68.95 |
Written by Qualified Experts
All of our medication and condition content is written by UK qualified pharmacists and doctors.
Reviewed: 08/03/2025
FAQ
General Information
What is Epiduo?
Epiduo is a topical gel for acne that combines adapalene (a retinoid) and benzoyl peroxide (an antimicrobial). It helps reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and fight acne-causing bacteria.
What are the active ingredients in Epiduo?
Epiduo contains adapalene 0.1% and benzoyl peroxide 2.5%.
What does Epiduo do to your skin?
Adapalene reduces inflammation and prevents the buildup of skin cells in pores, while benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria and reduces excess oil.
Can Epiduo be used on all skin types?
Epiduo can be used on most skin types, but individuals with very sensitive or eczema-prone skin should consult a doctor first due to potential irritation.
Usage & Dosage
How is Epiduo applied?
Apply a thin layer once daily at night to clean, dry skin on affected areas. Avoid eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. Wash hands after application.
How long should you use Epiduo for?
Treatment duration depends on individual response. If no improvement is seen after 8–12 weeks, consult your doctor. Long-term use may be recommended in some cases.
How should I care for my skin while using Epiduo?
Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers. Apply sunscreen daily as your skin will be more sensitive to UV light. Avoid harsh exfoliants or alcohol-based products.
Can I use other skincare products with Epiduo?
Yes, but avoid using other acne treatments unless advised by your doctor. Steer clear of abrasive or drying products that may worsen irritation.
Effectiveness & Results
How long will it take Epiduo to work?
Initial improvement may be seen in 4 to 6 weeks, with full benefits often taking up to 12 weeks. Consistency is key.
What should I do if I don’t see improvement with Epiduo?
If you don’t see improvement after 8–12 weeks, consult your GP or dermatologist to review your treatment plan. Other options may include oral treatments or alternative topicals.
Side Effects & Safety
What are the side effects of Epiduo?
Common side effects include redness, stinging, dryness, peeling, and irritation at the application site. These usually settle after a few weeks of continued use.
What precautions should I take when using Epiduo?
Avoid sun exposure, apply sunscreen, and do not use on broken or sunburnt skin. If severe irritation occurs, stop treatment and seek medical advice.
Is it safe to use Epiduo during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Epiduo is not recommended during pregnancy. During breastfeeding, avoid application on the chest. Always consult your doctor before use.
Interactions
How do the active ingredients in Epiduo work together?
Adapalene helps regulate cell turnover and reduce inflammation. Benzoyl peroxide is antibacterial. Their combined effect targets multiple acne causes. Avoid combining Epiduo with other topical retinoids or benzoyl peroxide products unless directed.
Storage
How should I store Epiduo?
Store below 25°C. Do not freeze. Keep the tube tightly closed and out of sight and reach of children.
Access & Cost
Can I buy Epiduo Gel over the counter?
No, Epiduo is a prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK. It must be prescribed by a GP or an online pharmacy service after a clinical assessment.
Compare
Treatment Comparison
| Duac | Differin | Tetralysal | |
| Ingredients | Clindamycin / Benzoyl Peroxide | Adapalene | Lymecycline |
| Action | Dual action on bacteria; antibiotic and skin shedding | Helps unblock pores and reduce inflammation | Antibiotic kills bacteria |
| Oral or Topical? | Topical | Topical | Oral |
| Directions | Apply thin layer at night after washing. | Apply thin layer at night after washing. | Take ONE capsules DAILY (preferably in the morning) |
