Epiduo

Epiduo is a prescription-only gel for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris. It combines two active ingredients: the retinoid adapalene and the antibacterial benzoyl peroxide.

This combination fights acne on several levels – it opens clogged pores, reduces inflammation and kills acne bacteria. Epiduo is particularly suitable for moderate acne and can be used in both adolescents and adults.

There is also Epiduo Forte with a higher concentration (adapalene 0.3%, benzoyl peroxide 2.5%) for more stubborn cases.

The active ingredients in Epiduo complement each other:

Adapalene (0.1%):

• Belongs to the retinoids (vitamin A derivative)
• Normalizes cornification of the skin (keratinization)
• Prevents the formation of new comedones (blackheads)
• Has anti-inflammatory properties
• Promotes cell renewal

Benzoyl peroxide (2.5%):

• Has a strong antibacterial effect against Cutibacterium acnes
• Releases oxygen, which kills anaerobic bacteria
• No development of resistance possible
• Mildly keratolytic (peeling)

Advantages of the combination: Epiduo acts simultaneously on comedones, inflammation and bacteria.

Epiduo is suitable for:

• Patients aged 9 years and older with moderate acne vulgaris (Epiduo Forte only from 12 years)
• Predominantly inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
• Mixed acne with comedones and inflammation
• Cases where single active ingredients are not sufficiently effective

Particularly suitable for:

• Stubborn acne that does not respond to milder treatments
• A combination of blackheads and inflamed pimples
• Adolescents with puberty-related acne

Less suitable for:

• Very sensitive, dry or irritated skin
• Known intolerance to retinoids or benzoyl peroxide

Do not use in:

• Pregnancy or planned pregnancy

Active ingredient concentration:

• Adapalene: 1 mg/g (0.1%)
• Benzoyl peroxide: 25 mg/g (2.5%)

Variants:

• Epiduo Gel: adapalene 0.1% + benzoyl peroxide 2.5%
• Epiduo Forte: adapalene 0.3% + benzoyl peroxide 2.5%

Pack sizes:

• 15 g tube
• 30 g tube
• 45 g tube (Forte)
• 60 g tube

Application: 1. Wash the skin with a mild, soap-free cleanser 2. Allow it to dry completely (important!) 3. Apply a thin layer once daily in the evening 4. Apply to the entire area affected by acne 5. Wash your hands thoroughly after application

Timing: Apply once daily in the evening. Adapalene can make the skin sensitive to light, which is why evening application is important.

Adjustment phase: In the first 2-4 weeks, increased dryness, redness and scaling may occur. This is normal and usually subsides. In case of severe irritation, apply every other day.

Important notes:

• Sun protection during the day is a must (SPF 30+)
• Avoid contact with the eyes, lips and mucous membranes
• Benzoyl peroxide bleaches fabrics – use white towels and pillowcases
• No wax hair removal in the treated area

Epiduo must not be used in cases of:

• Hypersensitivity to adapalene, benzoyl peroxide or the excipients
• Pregnancy (retinoids can harm the unborn child)
• Eczema, sunburn or irritated skin
• Rosacea or perioral dermatitis

Caution in cases of:

• Breastfeeding (only after consultation; do not apply to the chest area)
• Very sensitive skin
• Simultaneous use of other irritating skin products

Important: Epiduo must also not be used if a pregnancy is planned. If pregnancy occurs during treatment, the treatment must be stopped.

Common (1-10%):

• Dry skin
• Scaling
• Skin redness (erythema)
• Burning of the skin
• Irritant contact dermatitis
• Skin irritation

Uncommon:

• Itching
• Sunburn

Frequency not known:

• Stinging pain of the skin
• Burn-like reactions at the application site (mostly superficial, but severe burns have also been reported)
• Allergic contact dermatitis, hives (urticaria), blisters, skin discoloration
• Swelling of the face or eyelids
• Anaphylactic reaction (severe allergic reaction), throat tightness, shortness of breath

Initial worsening: In the first weeks, the acne may briefly get worse before improvement sets in. This is normal.

Tips for side effects:

• Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer
• In case of severe irritation, apply only every 2nd day
• Use mild cleansing products

Do not use at the same time:

• Other retinoids (topical or systemic)
• Strongly drying or irritating products
• Products with a high alcohol content
• Sulfur-containing acne products

Caution with:

• AHA/BHA peels – increased irritation
• Physical exfoliants (scrubs)
• Other topical acne medications

Recommendation: If needed, additionally use a mild moisturizer. Discuss other active products with your doctor.