Adapalene/Benzoyl Peroxide topical (Differin Epiduo, Epiduo) - Uses, Side Effects, and More

Who should not use topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide.

• Adapalene
• Benzoyl peroxide
• Differin Epiduo
• Epiduo or Epiduo Forte
• Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide products they stock.

What should I know about topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide before using it?

If topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide was prescribed to you by a health care provider, use it as prescribed. If you are using over-the-counter topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide, follow the instructions that come with the product. Using it more often than recommended can cause irritation and will not make it work faster or better. 

Do not share topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide that was prescribed for you by a health care provider with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide out of the reach of children.

Your acne may seem to get worse before it gets better when you start using topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide. This is normal. It can up to 3 months of using this medicine daily to see results. Tell your health care provider if your acne does not seem to be getting better after 3 months of using this medicine. 

Before using topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide, gently wash the area where you will apply it and pat dry. It should be applied as a thin layer to the affected skin areas. It is not a spot treatment. 

Stay out of direct sunlight, sunlamps, or tanning beds while using topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide. If you are often in the sun or have sensitive skin, be extra careful. Use sunscreen and wear a hat if you cannot avoid the sun. Allow the medicine to dry before applying sunscreen. Also avoid very windy or cold weather, as it may make your skin more irritated.

Do not use topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide on cuts, scrapes, sunburned skin, or skin affected by eczema (a condition that causes red, itchy, and inflamed skin). Do not use topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide in or on the eyes, lips, mouth, or vagina. If the medicine gets on any of these areas, wash the area right away with water.

Avoid waxing for hair removal on areas where you use topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide. This may make it more likely for skin to be irritated while using this medicine. 

Also avoid using other irritating topical products, such as medicated or abrasive (rough) soaps, soaps or cosmetics that cause dry skin, or products with high levels of alcohol, astringents, spices, or lime. 

Wash your hands right away after using this medicine.

Topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide may bleach (remove color from) your clothes or hair. Do not get the medicine on colored fabric or hair. 

What should I tell my health care provider before using topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

• Any other skin conditions, such as cuts or scrapes on the skin, sunburn, or eczema 
• Any other medical conditions

Other Medicines and Supplements. Topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before using topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide while breastfeeding. If your health care provider recommends that you use topical adapalene/benzoyl peroxide while breastfeeding, you should use it for the shortest time possible. Do not use the medicine on the nipple or areola (the colored area around the nipple).