Epiduo Gel

Epiduo is made of adapalene (a retinoid, which is a form of vitamin A) and benzoyl peroxide (an antiseptic). Adapalene removes dead skin cells and reduces inflammation, and benzoyl peroxide helps kill some of the bacteria which may cause acne.

1. Wash your hands.
2. Remove any makeup, wash your face and pat dry with a towel.
3. Apply a thin layer of gel evenly over all of the areas of skin that are affected by acne (not just on the spots themselves).
4. Do this once a day before you go to bed.
5. Make sure the gel does not get into your eyes, up your nose or in your mouth. If this happens, wash the area with plenty of warm water.
6. Make sure the gel does not get into your hair or onto your clothing as it may bleach them.
7. Wash your hands straight after you use the gel.

• Adapalene
• Benzoyl peroxide

If you have acne and want treatment, you can use our online doctor service to buy this medication:

1. Fill out the online questionnaire. This usually only takes a few minutes.
2. You’ll be asked questions about your general health and medications that you’re already taking, to make sure that Epiduo Gel is safe for you.
3. You’ll be asked to upload 2 photos so the doctor can check your symptoms.
4. A doctor will assess your questionnaire and photos, and prescribe Epiduo Gel if it’s the right treatment for you.
5. Your prescription of Epiduo Gel will be sent to you.

Common side effects of using Epiduo Gel include:

• dry skin
• rash on the skin
• redness, irritation or burning feeling on the skin
• flakey skin

Less common side effects include:

• itchy skin
• sunburn
• a raised itchy rash (known as urticaria or hives)

If you have any skin irritation in the first few weeks of using the gel, try putting it on less often. If the skin irritation continues, stop using the gel and talk to a doctor about whether it is the right treatment for you.

Some symptoms might be a sign that you're having an allergic reaction to Epiduo. You should call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department if you experience these side effects after using Epiduo Gel:

• feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• tightness of the throat
• difficulty breathing
• swelling of the eyes, face, lips or tongue

If you accidentally swallow some Epiduo, wash your mouth out with plenty of water, and speak to a doctor or call 111.

Also, Epiduo can cause bleaching of hair and clothing. Wash your hands after using it, and make sure the gel has dried before putting clothes on.

There are a number of other acne treatments you can try. These include:

• other gels or creams that you rub onto the skin
• a combination of antibiotic pills and gels
• combined contraceptive pill