Epiduo
What is Epiduo?
Epiduo comes to us from Galderma, a product of a joint venture between Nestlé and L’Oréal. They are the creators of other familiar products like, Cetaphil and Differin. Epiduo is a combination of two ingredients, hence the name Epiduo. Epiduo contains Benzoyl peroxide and Adapalene. Epiduo claims to be the most powerful bactericidal agent against P acnes and anticomedogenic. If you aren’t an acne expert this may sound a bit confusing so, let’s break it down for you.
Epiduo Gel Active Ingredients
Benzoyl peroxide- An organic compound that is used to treat acne, bleach hair and teeth, among many other things. For acne, Benzoyl peroxide is typically used in 2.5% concentrations, although it is also used in effective amounts of 5 or even 10%, but 2.5% is usually tolerated better. Benzoyl peroxide tends to cause dryness and irritation, but after a week your skin will adjust and become more tolerant. If you have sensitive skin you may experience burning, itching, swelling and may even peel. Benzoyl peroxide main function as an anti-acne treatment is it’s ability to reduce bacteria and as an antimicrobial (meaning it kills or stops the growth of microorganisms like bacteria, fungus, etc..)
Adapalene- Is also sold as Differin, which is made by the same company that makes Epiduo. Adapalene possesses exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties. Adapalene is still a bit mysterious but scientist believe it works by affecting the growth of skin cells and reducing the formation of pimples. The most common side effects of adapalene are redness, irritation, dryness, itching and flares of acne. Like benzoyl peroxide, side effects lessen with time and continued use. Adapalene will increase your sensitivity to sunlight so avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen.
How to Apply Epiduo
After washing your face, apply a pea-sized amount of Epiduo once daily to your affected areas. Avoid contact with your eyes, lips and mucous membranes. As mentioned earlier avoid excessive exposure to sunlight and sunlamps. Do not use products that contains resorcinol, salicylic acid or sulphur. Epiduo is intended for everyone 12 and up. Tests have not been conducted of pregnant women or the elderly.
Epiduo Studies
In a randomized, multi-center, double-blind, active and vehicle controlled parallel-group study, participants using Epiduo reduced inflammatory and comedonal (non inflammatory) lesion by 22% in 1 week. By Week 12 it was reduced to 62% in noninflammatory, and 70% in inflammatory. Epiduo.com has 2 before and after pictures of participants.
Epiduo Side Effects
Epiduo side effects include mild irritation, redness, scaling, dryness, and burning where applied. Side effects are typical but tend to go away after the first week if applied once daily.
Does Epiduo Require a Prescription?
Yes, talk to your doctor or dermatologist about getting a prescription for Epiduo. Epidua can run about $85. To save money register for an Epiduo card and spend no more than $35 on your prescription.
Does Epiduo Get Rid of Acne Scars?
There is no evidence that Epiduo will get rid of old acne scars but it will prevent future acne scars from appearing.