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Burning Sensation from Epiduo Gel

asked 3 years ago by Clkc2009 in ohio
Latest answer by Adam J. Mamelak, MD
Question viewed 9,255 times

My face is constantly burning from Epiduo Gel, so I don't know what to do. It doesn't seem like it's working either, but I was told it gets worse before it gets better. Is this true?

4 answers to Burning Sensation from Epiduo Gel

+1

Acne Medications That Cause Irritation

Epiduo is a combination product that contains Benzoyl Peroxide and Adapalene gel. Both of these agents have been found to be extremely effective in treating acne. However, in some people, the agents can be irritating and cause burning, redness, or even scaling and peeling. I tell patients that treating acne is sometimes finding the correct balance. While you want results from the medications, you also want to minimize any side effects. Your skin also becomes used to these agents over... more
Adam J. Mamelak, MD

Austin Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

Epiduo and acne

Some patients have a true allergy to benzoyl peroxide. Most get an irritation that looks like an allergy. If you are irritated by the product, first, try to apply moisturizer after using it. If that does not work, skip a day in between. In studies, acne does not seem to get worse before it gets better, But from experience, most dermatologists will tell you that's it's true.
Gary Goldenberg, MD

New York Dermatologist
+1

Epiduo

Many people can become allergic to BP. I would stop the topical and call your dermatologist. I am not a big fan of benzoyl peroxide, since it is an oxidizing agent, and the trend is towards anti-oxidants. Furthermore, up to 10% of users can become allergic to BP. I think differin is a great product by itself, and the BP does not add much.
Omeed Memar, MD, PhD

Chicago Dermatologist
+1

Epiduo Gel Allergic reaction

You might be having an allergic reaction to the Benzoyl Peroxide ingredient in Epi-Duo. The other possiblitlity is that your skin is sensitive and you might not be able to tolerate Differin gel. Stop using it for a week. Buy some OXY 5 and see if that causes the same sensation. If so you are probably allergic to Bezoyl Peroxide. You also should call your dermatologist and tell them of your problem. These medications should not burn. What we generally talk about when we say... more
Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD

Virginia Beach Dermatologist

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