Duac Gel 3%
Duac Gel (available in 3% and 5% formulations) is a prescription topical treatment for mild to moderate acne, targeting inflammatory skin conditions like blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
Duac Gel 3% prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3% | 30g | £64.99 |
All strengths and pack sizes are listed on the Duac Gel page.
Duac Gel: Effective Acne Treatment
What is Duac Gel?
Duac Gel (available in 3% and 5% formulations) is a prescription topical treatment for mild to moderate acne, targeting inflammatory skin conditions like blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
This powerful gel contains two active ingredients, clindamycin phosphate and benzoyl peroxide, which work together to reduce breakouts and prevent future acne. Suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over, Duac is not recommended for children under 12.
Benefits of Duac Gel
Duac Gel offers several benefits, including:
- Reducing existing acne outbreaks.
- Minimising the likelihood of future breakouts.
- Improving skin clarity and promoting healing.
- Fast-acting results (visible improvements in as little as 48 hours).
Duac Gel is also cost-effective and works directly on the affected areas, reducing the risk of systemic side effects.
How Does Duac Gel Work?
Duac Gel contains two potent ingredients with complementary effects:
Clindamycin
- An antibiotic that targets acne-causing bacteria, including Propionibacterium acnes.
- Prevents bacteria from multiplying by disrupting their cell wall production.
- Reduces inflammation and allows the skin to heal.
Benzoyl Peroxide
- A keratolytic agent that exfoliates dead skin cells and clears clogged pores.
- Kills bacteria on the skin’s surface and reduces blackheads and whiteheads.
- Helps to unblock sebaceous glands, preventing future breakouts.
Together, these ingredients make Duac Gel a highly effective acne treatment.
How to Use Duac Gel
Using Duac Gel is simple:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before application.
- Cleanse your skin with a mild cleanser and pat it dry.
- Apply a thin layer of gel to the affected areas once daily, preferably at night.
- Gently rub the gel into the skin until fully absorbed.
- Wash your hands after application.
Important:
- Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and broken skin.
- Do not use more gel than recommended, as this may cause irritation or dryness.
How Long Does Duac Gel Take to Work?
Most users notice improvements within 2–5 weeks of starting treatment. For some, results may take up to 6 weeks. Duac Gel should not be used for more than 12 weeks without consulting a healthcare professional.
What Are the Side Effects of Duac Gel?
- Duac Gel is generally well-tolerated, but some users may experience:
Common Side Effects:
- Redness and peeling.
- Dry or itchy skin.
- Mild burning or stinging sensation.
Rare Side Effects:
- Skin pigmentation changes.
- Severe skin irritation or allergic reaction.
If you experience severe side effects, reduce the amount of gel applied or discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Precautions and Interactions
Do not use Duac Gel if:
- You are allergic to clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide, or any other ingredients in the gel.
- You are currently using topical antibiotics like erythromycin.
- You have a history of ulcerative colitis or antibiotic-associated colitis.
- Your skin is very sensitive or prone to eczema.
Additional precautions:
- Use sunscreen as benzoyl peroxide increases sensitivity to sunlight.
- Do not use it with oral treatments like isotretinoin (Roaccutane), as it may increase skin irritation.
- Avoid using medicated cleansers or cosmetics containing tazarotene, tretinoin, or isotretinoin simultaneously.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
Use Duac Gel only if deemed essential by a healthcare professional. Avoid applying it to areas where it could come into contact with a baby.
Dosages of Duac Gel
At Medihealth Direct, Duac Gel is available in two standard dosages:
- 3% (30mg): 1g contains 10mg of clindamycin and 30mg of benzoyl peroxide.
- 5% (50mg): 1g contains 10mg of clindamycin and 50mg of benzoyl peroxide.
Your healthcare professional will determine the most suitable dosage based on your condition’s severity.
How to Buy Duac Gel Online Safely
Duac Gel is available for purchase online at Medihealth Direct. To ensure safety:
- Complete an online consultation.
- Provide details of your acne condition, including a photo if required.
- A UK-registered healthcare professional will review your consultation.
- If approved, your prescription will be processed, and the medication will be delivered discreetly to your address.
Duac Gel FAQs
What is Duac Gel used for?
Duac Gel treats mild to moderate acne by targeting bacteria and reducing inflammation.
Can I buy Duac Gel over the counter?
No, Duac Gel is a prescription-only medication.
Does Duac Gel help with acne scars?
Duac Gel is not specifically designed to treat acne scars, but it may help reduce scarring by preventing future breakouts.
How long does the numbing effect last?
The numbing effect typically lasts for up to 1 hour after application.
Does Duac Gel require refrigeration?
Yes, Duac Gel should be stored in the refrigerator at 2–8°C.
H3: Can I use Duac Gel with other acne treatments?
Yes, there are other numbing creams available. Consult your healthcare professional for recommendations based on your needs.
Avoid using Duac Gel with products containing tretinoin or isotretinoin to prevent irritation. If using multiple treatments, consult your healthcare professional for advice.
How does the online consultation for Duac Gel work?
- Complete a confidential online health questionnaire.
- A GPhC-registered pharmacist reviews your answers and confirms whether the treatment is clinically appropriate.
- If approved, your medication is dispensed by the pharmacy and delivered in discreet packaging by tracked UK delivery.
See how the service works or browse all treatments.