Duac Gel 3%

Duac gel is a common prescription-only medication to treat mild to moderate acne (see our Acne guide for more help). It is used to reduce the overall symptoms of acne by reducing excessive sebum (grease), inflammation, whiteheads and blackheads, and pustules (inflamed pus-filled spots). It comes in 2 strengths containing either 3% or 5% benzoyl peroxide (BPO)- we would recommend to always start at the lower strength first and then you can increase to the 5% strength after 1 month- this is to avoid any unnecessary irritation which can sometimes occur, especially at higher strengths. It can take 2-6 weeks before you see any effect and it is recommended to use for a minimum of 3 months at a time.

Clindamycin Phosphate is a lincosamide antibiotic that helps slow and stop the growth of acne bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) on your skin by interfering with synthesis of proteins that the bacteria need to survive. Overtime the reduction in the acne bacteria means that there is less chance of inflammation, redness and pus-filled spot (pustules). The benzoyl peroxide has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions which reduce redness, swelling and reduce the amount of acne bacteria present.

• Remove makeup and cleanse with a acne- friendly cleanser or lukewarm water and pat dry.

• Apply a thin layer of Duac gel once daily in the evening, to the entire affected area.

• Hands should be washed after application.

•    Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
•    For external use only- do not swallow and keep away from eyes.
•    Very rarely antibiotic associated diarrhoea and colitis have been reported with this medication- if you do suffer any of these conditions then stop the medication and seek urgent medical advice.
•    Avoid using with any other medications that could dry your skin or cause irritation.
•    As benzoyl peroxide may cause increased sensitivity to sunlight, sunlamps should not be used and deliberate or prolonged exposure to sun should be avoided or minimised. When exposure to strong sunlight cannot be avoided, use a sunscreen product and wear protective clothing.
•    The product may bleach hair or coloured fabrics. Avoid contact with hair, fabrics, furniture or carpeting.

We would not advise to use this medication in pregnancy or breastfeeding as there are probably safer and more effective alternative treatments available in these situations.

Active Ingredients: Clindamycin Phosphate 1% & Benzoyl Peroxide (3% or 5%)Other Ingredients: Carbomer 940, Dimeticone, Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate, Disodium Edetate, Glycerol, Silica (Colloidal Hydrated), Poloxamer 182, Sodium Hydroxide and Purified Water.

Shelf Life: 2 years

All medications and products can potentially cause side effects- If they are severe, or are mild and do not improve, then you should speak to your pharmacist or doctor immediately.

Very Common Side effects (affecting >10% of people): Slight Pruritus (Itching), burning sensation, dryness, erythema, peeling.
Common Side effects (affecting 1%- 10% of people): Dermatitis, photosensitivity reaction, Headache, Pain at application site.
Uncommon Side effects (affecting 0.1%-1% of people): Paraesthesia (Tingling), Erythematous (red) rash, worsening of acne.

There are many other Acne treatments available which are listed in our Acne guide. If you need help choosing, then start a quick questionnaire-based consultation or book in for a friendly telephone or video consultation with one of our dermatology pharmacists.