General Information on Epiduo Gel
Epiduo Gel is the trade name for adapalene and benzoyl peroxide and is one of the recommended topical treatments for acne. When combined with benzoyl peroxide, Adapalene helps in clearing up existing and new acne breakouts and also prevents the formation of new pimples.
One of the primary ingredients of Epiduo Gel is benzoyl peroxide, which kills the bacteria that cause pimples and acne breakouts. Adapalene, the second ingredient in Epiduo Gel, is a retinoid which helps prevent the growth of pimples by unclogging blocked pores. It also helps in minimizing redness of the skin due to swelling and inflammation, which is often associated with pimples. You can buy Epiduo Gel without a prescription as it is an over the counter topical cream.
Side effects of Epiduo Gel
Like most skin creams and gels, Epiduo Gel has very few and common side effects like burning sensation or warmth on the skin post application, dryness of the skin, skin irritation leading to rashes, persistent itching leading to redness of the skin, skin peeling and scaling, and a temporary stinging sensation of the skin. If any of these symptoms persist for more than 4-5 days, it is advisable to talk to your doctor.
Some of the severe side effects of Epiduo Gel include allergic reactions in or around the area where it has been applied. One may also experience the development of rashes, hives, severe skin irritation, and swelling. In rare cases, Epiduo Gel can lead to swelling of the tongue, face, mouth, and lips. It can cause crusting and peeling of the skin, and your skin may even develop painful blisters. These symptoms can lead to severe skin conditions if not taken care of in the early stages, and as such, an appointment with a skin specialist is necessary if you ever experience the above mentioned symptoms.
Precautions
Epiduo Gel is meant for external use only and must be kept away from the eyes, nose, mouth, and the vagina. If the gel comes in contact with your eyes or mouth during application, rinse the affected area with cold water immediately. Care must also be taken not to use Epiduo Gel over and above the prescribed/recommended limit in order to get better and faster results. This can lead to severe skin problems. In fact, an overdose can even worsen the existing acne problem. Epiduo Gel may also cause sunburn, and therefore, it is advisable to use an SPF cream when going outdoors.
Epiduo Gel Dosage
You may buy Epiduo Gel in a 50g tube, and the recommended dosage is twice a day. It should be used only after you have thoroughly cleaned the area of application using a mild soap. Once this is done, you must let your skin dry well before application. Squeeze out a pea-sized amount of Epiduo Gel 50g and apply it on the affected area in the form of a thin film. Rub or massage the cream in gently unless otherwise recommended. Wash your hands after applying the gel and store the Epiduo Gel 50g tube at 770 F (250 C).
Interactions
Epiduo Gel is not known to have any interactions with any other topical applications or drugs.