Duac gel (3%, 1%)

How is Duac gel applied?

After removing any makeup and washing the face, apply a thin film of Duac gel each evening to the affected area. Avoid any contact with the eyes, mouth, lips and nostrils and wash your hands after applying the gel.

How does Duac gel work?

Duac gel contains two active ingredients, clindamycin phosphate (1%) and Benzoyl Peroxide (3%) which work together to combat acne in two different ways. Clindamycin is an antibiotic which stops the bacteria that cause acne. Benzoyl Peroxide kills these bacteria too, but also breaks down blackheads and whiteheads reducing acne and inflammation across the affected area.

Is Duac gel effective?

The combination of the two active ingredients in Duac gel can make it an effective treatment for acne. It can take 2-6 weeks before you start to see any effect of the acne treatment, but it should not be used for more than 12 weeks at a time.

Are there any side effects of Duac gel?

There is a chance that using Duac gel you may experience side effects such as peeling, itching, dry skin and redness, particularly when you first begin to apply the gel. Duac gel also makes the skin more sensitive to the sun so it's important you don't expose the affected area to too much sunlight or use sunbeds.
For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet.

Is it safe to use Duac gel during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

You should not use Duac gel if you think you might be pregnant, are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Will Duac gel interact with other medication?

Duac gel should not be used at the same time as products that contain the antibiotic erythromycin, any products applied to the skin that contain tretinoin, isotretinoin or tazarotene. The same applies for medications taken orally that contain isotretinoin (such as the branded product Roaccutane).

Alternative treatments for acne

There are a variety of other acne treatments that can be taken, including a range of other acne creams, as well as combination packages of oral antibiotics and gels or creams. Some women may also be prescribed Co-cyprindiol, a contraceptive pill to treat their acne.

Reordering Duac

We will contact you through your Patient Record 6 weeks from your order to see how you are getting on with the medication. We may ask for some photos at this time as well to assess the response to treatment. It will also be an opportunity for you to give us feedback on your acne. To reorder treatment, go to your Patient Record and select ‘reorder’. You will be required to fill in the online questionnaire each time you reorder.