Epiduo gel contains a combination of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide. Adapalene is similar to vitamin A and helps the skin renew itself. Benzoyl peroxide has an antibacterial effect. It also has a mild drying effect, allowing excess oils and dirt to wash away easily from the skin.

Epiduo gel treats acne vulgaris (severe acne) in people at least nine years old.

Epiduo Gel is usually applied once a day at bedtime. Follow the directions on your prescription or package label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Apply Epiduo Gel exactly as directed. 

To use the Epiduo Gel, follow these steps:

• Gently wash the affected skin with a mild soap or soapless cleanser and pat dry with a soft towel. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleansers; do not scrub your skin vigorously. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend a gentle cleanser.
• Epiduo Gel is applied to the affected area, not only to a single pimple or spot. You should apply the gel with your fingers to spread a thin film of medication over the affected area. 
  You may feel a slight warmth or sting in the place where you applied adapalene. This feeling is normal and should go away by itself in a short time.

Before taking Epiduo Gel, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• If allergic to adapalene or benzoyl peroxide.
• Other skin problems include cuts,
• Abrasions,
• Sunburn, or
• Eczema,
• Pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not apply Epiduo Gel to skin that is sunburned, broken, or covered with eczema. If you have any of these conditions, do not apply Epiduo Gel until your skin has healed.

Common side effects of Epiduo Gel include:

• skin redness,
• dryness,
• peeling,
• mild burning,
• stinging,
• scaling,
• swelling,
• itching, or
• worsening of acne during the first four weeks of using this product.

These side effects usually decrease with the continued use of Epiduo Gel.

What type of acne does Epiduo Gel treat?

Epiduo treats acne vulgaris. Acne vulgaris is the most common type of acne and causes pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. 

What is the best way to use Epiduo Gel?

Before using Epiduo Gel, clean the affected areas with a mild cleanser, and pat dry. Wash your hands with soap and water. Then use a pea-sized amount of the medication, and spread a thin layer over all affected areas.

How long should you use Epiduo Gel?

Epiduo Gel controls acne but does not cure it. Your acne may worsen during the first few weeks of treatment, taking 8 to 12 weeks to see full benefits.

What other information should you know while on Epiduo Gel?

Epiduo Gel may bring previously unseen pimples to the skin's surface during the first weeks of your treatment. Continue to use Epiduo Gel even if your acne worsens or you see little improvement.

What side effects can Epiduo Gel cause?

Skin redness, dryness, peeling, mild burning, swelling, or worsening of acne may occur.