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Duac

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Duac

Prescription Range

Duac once daily gel is an effective acne treatment used to treat severe acne. It is a topical gel that comes in two different strengths (3% and 5%). It contains two active ingredients that work together (but in different ways) to treat acne-causing bacteria.

  1. Benzoyl Peroxide is an antiseptic peeling agent that works by exfoliating the skin and clearing pores.
  2. Clindamycin is an antibiotic that fights the bacteria that cause skin outbreaks.

The gel is designed for use once a day, usually in the evening before bedtime. While you can not completely cure acne, it can be controlled with acne treatment.

  • Gel used for treating acne
  • Simple once-daily application at night
  • Dual-action, combination acne treatments
Acne
Chronic Conditions
Skin Conditions

Order Duac Gel Online

Duac gel is one of the most commonly used acne treatments because of its dual-purpose nature. It works both as an antiseptic to reduce bacteria on your skin and as an antibiotic to prevent them from coming back.

You can order the gel from Pharmacy Online, and we'll send it to you in discreet packaging.

When to Use Duac Gel?

Duac is a powerful treatment for inflammatory acne, including pus-filled pimples and painful bumps. It works by fighting Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria that cause acne.

By unblocking the pores, the treatment can also prevent recurrences. In most cases, your GP or a registered pharmacist will only prescribe it if you've tried over-the-counter treatments without any success.

Age Restrictions For Duac Gel

The minimum age for using Duac Gel is 12. However, many online chemists will only prescribe it for adults over 18. If your GP feels that it may benefit a younger teenager, they'll decide whether to prescribe it.

How to Use Duac Once Daily Gel?

When used incorrectly, Duac Gel can cause redness and peeling. Please follow these instructions:

  • Prepare: Wash your skin with a mild cleanser and warm water. Pat it dry and wait for at least 10 minutes before using the gel.
  • Apply: Place a small amount of gel on your finger and gently rub it over your face, avoiding sensitive areas such as the eyes and the area around the mouth.
  • Wash: Once you've finished, wash your hands.

You should use Duac Gel once daily, preferably in the evening. You'll usually have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to ensure the treatment is working. It should be used continuously for 12 weeks, then your GP will recommend stopping treatment for a while.

When to Avoid Using Duac to Treat Acne?

Because Duac is a strong topical treatment, there are some cases when you should avoid using it. These include:

  • Digestive Disorders: The topical gel can make the symptoms of IBD (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease) and regional enteritis worse.
  • Allergies: If you're sensitive to or allergic to any ingredient in Duac Gel, avoid using it.
  • Other Treatments: You shouldn't combine Duac with other topical treatments containing isotretonin, tretinoin, salicylic acid, or erythromycin.
  • Pregnancy: In most cases, you shouldn't use Duac while you're pregnant unless your doctor recommends it.

Precautions For Duac Gel

  • If your skin is sunburnt, damaged, or has a wound, you should avoid using it until it's healed.
  • Please don't apply harsh skincare products while using Duac.
  • If you're breastfeeding, make sure you don't apply any gel to your chest area.

Ingredients Of Duac Gel

Duac gel contains two active ingredients:

  1. Clindamycin - one of the most commonly used antibiotics to treat the harmful bacteria that cause acne.
  2. Benzoyl Peroxide - an antiseptic which helps to remove bacteria, as well as remove blockages from the skin's pores.

Inactive Ingredients Include:

  • Purified Water
  • Carbomer (e.g., Carbomer 940)
  • Glycerol (Glycerin)
  • Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate
  • Dimeticone (Dimethicone
  • Silica (Colloidal Hydrated).
  • Disodium Edetate (EDTA)
  • Sodium Hydroxide
  • Poloxamer 182

Side Effects of Duac Gel

Common side effects associated with using Duac gel include:

  • Dry skin can be managed with a non-greasy moisturiser.
  • Stinging sensation when applying the gel - but this subsides with time, or by applying the gel more thinly on the skin.
  • Peeling skin or severe skin redness
  • Stomach cramps and diarrhoea - if you apply too much Duac gel, it can get absorbed through your skin, causing you to develop stomach cramps.

Always tell your pharmacist or healthcare provider about any other prescription drugs or medications you're taking, as they may interfere with the efficacy of this acne treatment.

Duac gel warnings also include the potential for a serious allergic reaction. Stop using this gel immediately and seek medical assistance if you experience:

  • hives
  • itching skin
  • difficulty breathing
  • swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat
Should I keep using my moisturiser alongside Duac gel?

Yes. An oil-free moisturiser will help to prevent dry skin and alleviate any discomfort. Apply your moisturiser over a layer of Duac gel. However, do not use a moisturiser containing alcohol, as this may further irritate the skin.

How should I store Duac gel?

Store Duac gel below 25°C, and keep it for no more than 2 months after opening.

Can I still drink alcohol when using Duac gel?

Yes. Duac gel will not react with the drinking of alcohol.

Is Duac Gel safe during pregnancy?

Duac Gel is not recommended during pregnancy. This is because it contains Benzoyl Peroxide. Consult a medical professional for advice on other acne treatments if you are pregnant.

How long does it take for Duac gel to work?

People begin to see subtle changes within 2 to 4 weeks, but it can take up to 6 weeks to see a reduction in acne and up to 12 weeks to reap the full benefits of the acne treatment.

Can I buy Duac gel online?

Yes, you can buy Duac gel online from Pharmacy Online. We stock a number of topical acne treatments, including prescription-only medication, to help treat mild to moderate acne.

If you have acne and are looking for treatment, speak with one of our pharmacists today to get a prescription.

Duac Gel Patient Information Leaflet

Before taking any medicines, whether over-the-counter or prescription-only, it is essential to read the patient information leaflet. If you need advice or have questions, please don't hesitate to contact our registered pharmacists.

Patient Information Leaflet

Umar Razzaq, MPharm | University of Strathclyde, Clinical Pharmacist.
Content Written by:Umar RazzaqMPharm | University Of Strathclyde
Date Written:12/06/2026
Role:Clinical Pharmacist
Nish Fayyaz, MPharm | University of Strathclyde, Pharmacist.
Medically Reviewed By:Nish FayyazMPharm | University Of Strathclyde
Date Checked:12/06/2026
Role:Pharmacist
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