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Duac Gel

Duac Gel

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  • ✔️ Targets acne-causing bacteria with clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide
  • ✔️ Reduces inflammatory acne lesions within four to six weeks
  • ✔️ Once-daily evening application for a simple skincare routine
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Combination formula reduces risk of antibiotic resistance

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What Is Duac Gel for Acne?

 

Duac gel for acne is a prescription-strength topical treatment that combines two active ingredients — clindamycin 1% and benzoyl peroxide 5% — to tackle mild to moderate acne vulgaris. Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the UK, affecting up to 95% of people aged 11 to 30 at some point in their lives, according to the NHS. It can cause significant distress, and finding an effective treatment matters. If you've tried over-the-counter options without success, Duac gel may be the next step worth discussing with a healthcare professional. You can explore a wider range of topical treatments in our skin care collection.

Duac gel is applied directly to the skin once daily, making it a straightforward addition to your evening routine. It's available in a 30g tube and is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over. Because it contains an antibiotic, it's classified as a prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK, meaning you'll need a valid prescription before purchasing.

 

How Does Duac Gel Work on Your Skin?

 

Duac gel targets acne through a dual mechanism, which is why it tends to be more effective than single-ingredient treatments. Here's how each component contributes:

  • Clindamycin 1%: A topical antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, reducing the growth of Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes), the bacteria primarily responsible for inflamed acne lesions.
  • Benzoyl peroxide 5%: An oxidising agent that kills surface bacteria, helps to unblock pores, and — crucially — reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance developing from the clindamycin component.
  • Combined effect: Together, these ingredients reduce inflammation, clear existing spots, and help prevent new ones from forming.

The inclusion of benzoyl peroxide alongside the antibiotic is clinically important. Using topical antibiotics alone can encourage resistant strains of bacteria to develop over time. Benzoyl peroxide counteracts this, making Duac gel a more responsible long-term option than antibiotic monotherapy.

 

Who Should Use Duac Gel?

 

Duac gel is intended for people with mild to moderate acne vulgaris — typically characterised by a mix of blackheads, whiteheads, papules, and pustules. It's not designed for severe nodular or cystic acne, which usually requires oral medication or specialist dermatology input. So, is it right for you?

  • Adults and adolescents aged 12 and over with mild to moderate facial acne
  • People who have not responded adequately to over-the-counter acne products
  • Those who prefer a once-daily topical application rather than oral antibiotics
  • Patients without a known allergy to clindamycin, lincomycin, or benzoyl peroxide

It is not suitable for use during pregnancy, and caution is advised if you have a history of inflammatory bowel disease or colitis. Always complete a clinical consultation before starting treatment.

 

How Does Duac Gel Compare to Other Acne Treatments?

 

Feature Duac Gel Epiduo Gel
Active ingredients Clindamycin 1% + Benzoyl peroxide 5% Adapalene 0.1% + Benzoyl peroxide 2.5%
Mechanism Antibiotic + oxidising agent Retinoid + oxidising agent
Application frequency Once daily (evening) Once daily (evening)
Suitable from age 12 years and over 9 years and over
UK classification Prescription only (POM) Prescription only (POM)

 

How Should You Store Duac Gel?

 

Duac gel must be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze it. Once opened, the tube should be used within 60 days. Keeping it at the correct temperature preserves the stability of both active ingredients and ensures the gel remains effective throughout your course of treatment. If you're managing multiple skin conditions, our creams and ointments collection includes a range of topical products to support your skin health.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Duac Gel specifications
Treatment category Acne vulgaris
Active ingredient Clindamycin 1% w/w, Benzoyl Peroxide 5% w/w
Mechanism of action Topical antibiotic combined with oxidising agent
Effective for Mild to moderate acne vulgaris
Suitable for Adults and adolescents aged 12 and over
Pack size 30g tube
Strengths Clindamycin 1% / Benzoyl Peroxide 5%
UK classification Prescription Only Medicine (POM)
Drug class Topical antibiotic / keratolytic combination
Preparation Gel
Route of administration Topical (cutaneous)

Specifications of Duac Gel

 

What Is Duac Gel and What Is It Used For?

 

Duac gel is a topical combination medicine used to treat mild to moderate acne vulgaris in adults and adolescents aged 12 and over. It contains two active ingredients: clindamycin phosphate 1% (equivalent to clindamycin 1%) and benzoyl peroxide 5%. Acne develops when hair follicles become blocked with sebum and dead skin cells, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive and cause inflammation. Duac gel addresses both the bacterial and inflammatory components of this process, making it a clinically recognised option for people whose acne hasn't responded to simpler treatments.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Duac Gel?

 

Before starting Duac gel, it's important to be aware of the following contraindications and warnings:

  • Do not use if you are allergic to clindamycin, lincomycin, or benzoyl peroxide, or any other ingredient in the gel
  • Do not use if you have a history of antibiotic-associated colitis or inflammatory bowel disease
  • Avoid contact with eyes, nostrils, mouth, and other mucous membranes
  • Do not apply to broken, sunburned, or eczematous skin
  • Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — speak to your GP for alternatives
  • Benzoyl peroxide may bleach hair, fabric, and clothing — allow the gel to dry fully before contact
  • Use sun protection during treatment, as the skin may become more sensitive to UV light

Regarding drug interactions, the following should be noted:

  • Do not use with other topical antibiotic preparations, particularly erythromycin — this combination may reduce effectiveness and increase resistance risk
  • Avoid using alongside other potentially irritating topical products (e.g. abrasive cleansers, alcohol-based toners) at the same time as Duac gel
  • Inform your prescriber of all medicines you are currently taking, including oral antibiotics

 

How Should You Use Duac Gel?

 

Using Duac gel correctly gives you the best chance of seeing results. Follow these steps each evening:

  1. Wash your face gently with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser and pat dry
  2. Wait a few minutes to ensure the skin is completely dry before applying
  3. Squeeze a small, pea-sized amount of gel onto a clean fingertip
  4. Apply a thin, even layer to the entire affected area — not just individual spots
  5. Avoid the eyes, nostrils, lips, and any broken skin
  6. Wash your hands thoroughly after application
  7. Allow the gel to absorb before applying any moisturiser if needed
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Mild to moderate acne vulgaris 12 years and over Thin layer to affected area Once daily (evening)
Mild to moderate acne vulgaris Adults Thin layer to affected area Once daily (evening)

Duac gel is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. If you're also managing other skin concerns, our skin care collection includes a range of complementary products to support your routine.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Duac Gel?

 

Like all medicines, Duac gel can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are localised to the skin and tend to be mild, particularly in the first few weeks of use as your skin adjusts.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Skin dryness and peeling
  • Redness or erythema at the application site
  • Mild burning or stinging sensation
  • Skin irritation or itching

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Contact dermatitis
  • Worsening of acne in the initial weeks (this often settles)
  • Oily skin or changes in skin texture
  • Rarely, diarrhoea — if severe or persistent, stop use and seek medical advice, as this may indicate antibiotic-associated colitis

If you experience severe abdominal pain, bloody diarrhoea, or signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, severe rash), stop using Duac gel immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

 

How Should You Store Duac Gel?

 

  • Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C
  • Do not freeze
  • Once opened, use within 60 days
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacy

If you have questions about managing your acne alongside other health concerns, our team at Cured Pharmacy is here to help. You may also find it useful to browse our women's health collection for additional skincare and health support products.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Duac gel online in the UK?

You can buy Duac gel online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy. Because it is a prescription-only medicine, you'll need to complete a short online consultation to confirm it's suitable for you. Once approved by our pharmacist team, your order is dispatched promptly to your door.

How does Duac gel work on acne?

Duac gel works through two complementary mechanisms. Clindamycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, reducing the population of Cutibacterium acnes on the skin, while benzoyl peroxide acts as an oxidising agent that kills bacteria and helps keep pores clear. The combination also reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance, which can occur when topical antibiotics are used alone.

How do I apply Duac gel correctly?

Cleanse your face with a gentle, non-abrasive wash and allow the skin to dry completely before applying. Using a clean fingertip, apply a thin layer of Duac gel to the entire affected area — not just individual spots — once each evening. Always wash your hands after application and avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and nostrils.

How long does Duac gel take to show results?

Most people begin to notice an improvement in their acne within four to six weeks of consistent use. Full results are typically seen after a complete course of around 11 to 12 weeks. If you see no improvement after 12 weeks, speak to your prescriber about alternative options.

What are the most common side effects of Duac gel?

The most frequently reported side effects are localised skin reactions, including dryness, peeling, redness, and mild irritation or stinging at the application site. These effects are usually mild and tend to improve as your skin adjusts over the first few weeks. Using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser can help manage dryness.

Can Duac gel bleach my clothes or towels?

Yes — benzoyl peroxide, one of the active ingredients in Duac gel, can bleach fabrics including clothing, pillowcases, and towels. Allow the gel to absorb fully into the skin before it comes into contact with any fabric. Using white or old pillowcases while on treatment is a practical way to avoid accidental bleaching.

Is Duac gel suitable for sensitive skin?

Duac gel can cause irritation, particularly in people with sensitive skin, due to the benzoyl peroxide component. If you have sensitive skin, start by applying the gel every other evening to allow your skin to acclimatise, and always follow with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturiser. If irritation is severe or persistent, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Can I use Duac gel if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Duac gel is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or currently breastfeeding, speak to your GP before using any prescription acne treatment. There are alternative approaches your doctor can advise on that are considered safer during this period.

What happens if I miss a dose of Duac gel?

If you forget to apply Duac gel one evening, simply skip that application and continue with your usual routine the following evening. Do not apply a double amount to make up for a missed dose, as this increases the risk of skin irritation without improving results. Consistency over time is what matters most with topical acne treatments.

What is the difference between Duac gel and Epiduo gel?

Duac gel contains clindamycin (an antibiotic) and benzoyl peroxide, whereas Epiduo contains adapalene (a retinoid) and benzoyl peroxide. Both are once-daily topical treatments for acne, but they work through different mechanisms — Duac targets bacteria directly, while Epiduo also promotes skin cell turnover. Your prescriber can advise which is more appropriate for your skin type and acne severity.

How long can you use Duac gel for?

Duac gel is typically prescribed for a course of up to 12 weeks. Prolonged use of topical antibiotics beyond this period is generally discouraged because of the risk of antibiotic resistance developing. After completing a course, speak to your prescriber about ongoing acne management, which may involve a maintenance treatment without an antibiotic component.

Who is eligible to use Duac gel?

Duac gel is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who have mild to moderate acne vulgaris. It is not appropriate for people with a known allergy to clindamycin, lincomycin, or benzoyl peroxide, or those with a history of antibiotic-associated colitis. A clinical consultation is required before purchase to confirm suitability. You can explore other skin care treatments if Duac gel is not right for you.

Can I use moisturiser or makeup with Duac gel?

Yes, you can use a moisturiser and apply makeup while using Duac gel. Apply the gel first and allow it to absorb fully before layering other products on top. Choose non-comedogenic (non-pore-blocking) formulations where possible, and avoid abrasive or alcohol-based products that could increase skin irritation.

What are the alternatives to Duac gel for acne?

Alternatives to Duac gel include other topical treatments such as Epiduo gel (adapalene and benzoyl peroxide), topical retinoids like tretinoin, or oral antibiotics such as doxycycline for more widespread acne. For mild acne, over-the-counter options containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid may be sufficient. Browse our creams and ointments collection for further options, and always consult a pharmacist or GP before switching treatments.

What does the latest research say about Duac gel?

Clinical evidence consistently supports the use of clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide combination gels as an effective first-line treatment for mild to moderate acne vulgaris. The combination is endorsed in UK clinical guidelines because it reduces bacterial resistance compared to antibiotic monotherapy. Research also confirms that combination therapy produces faster and more significant reductions in acne lesion counts compared to either ingredient used alone.

How Should You Use Duac Gel?

Duac gel is applied topically to the skin once daily, in the evening. Consistent, correct application is key to getting the most from your treatment — applying it haphazardly or skipping evenings will slow your progress.

What Is the Correct Dose of Duac Gel?

The dose of Duac gel does not vary by weight or severity — it is a standardised topical application. The key is applying the right amount: enough to cover the affected area in a thin layer, but not so much that the skin becomes excessively dry or irritated.

When Is the Best Time to Use Duac Gel?

Duac gel should always be applied in the evening, after cleansing. Applying it at night allows the active ingredients to work on the skin undisturbed while you sleep, and reduces the chance of the gel interacting with sunscreen, makeup, or other daytime skincare products. Establishing a consistent evening routine — cleanse, dry, apply Duac gel — makes it much easier to remember and stick to your treatment.

Avoid applying the gel immediately before going outdoors, as benzoyl peroxide can increase photosensitivity. If you do go out during the day, use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen on treated areas.

How Long Can You Use Duac Gel For?

Duac gel is intended for a treatment course of up to 12 weeks. Clinical guidelines advise against using topical antibiotics for longer than this without review, as prolonged use increases the risk of antibiotic resistance developing. After completing your course, your prescriber may recommend a maintenance regimen — often a benzoyl peroxide-only product — to keep acne under control without continued antibiotic exposure.

If your acne has not improved after 12 weeks of consistent use, do not simply restart the course without speaking to a healthcare professional. There may be a more suitable treatment option for your skin type or acne severity.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

How Should You Use Duac Gel?

Duac gel is applied topically to the skin once daily, in the evening. Consistent, correct application is key to getting the most from your treatment — applying it haphazardly or skipping evenings will slow your progress.

What Is the Correct Dose of Duac Gel?

The dose of Duac gel does not vary by weight or severity — it is a standardised topical application. The key is applying the right amount: enough to cover the affected area in a thin layer, but not so much that the skin becomes excessively dry or irritated.

When Is the Best Time to Use Duac Gel?

Duac gel should always be applied in the evening, after cleansing. Applying it at night allows the active ingredients to work on the skin undisturbed while you sleep, and reduces the chance of the gel interacting with sunscreen, makeup, or other daytime skincare products. Establishing a consistent evening routine — cleanse, dry, apply Duac gel — makes it much easier to remember and stick to your treatment.

Avoid applying the gel immediately before going outdoors, as benzoyl peroxide can increase photosensitivity. If you do go out during the day, use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen on treated areas.

How Long Can You Use Duac Gel For?

Duac gel is intended for a treatment course of up to 12 weeks. Clinical guidelines advise against using topical antibiotics for longer than this without review, as prolonged use increases the risk of antibiotic resistance developing. After completing your course, your prescriber may recommend a maintenance regimen — often a benzoyl peroxide-only product — to keep acne under control without continued antibiotic exposure.

If your acne has not improved after 12 weeks of consistent use, do not simply restart the course without speaking to a healthcare professional. There may be a more suitable treatment option for your skin type or acne severity.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Duac Gel?

Most side effects associated with Duac gel are localised to the skin and are generally mild, particularly during the first few weeks of treatment as your skin adjusts to the active ingredients. They do not usually require you to stop treatment.

  • Skin dryness and flaking or peeling
  • Redness (erythema) at the application site
  • Mild burning or stinging sensation after application
  • Itching or skin irritation

Using a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturiser after the gel has absorbed can help manage dryness and peeling. If these effects are particularly uncomfortable, try applying the gel every other evening for the first week before moving to daily use.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Duac Gel?

Less common side effects occur in fewer people but are still worth being aware of before you start treatment. If any of the following persist or worsen, contact your pharmacist or GP.

  • Contact dermatitis (an allergic skin reaction causing rash, swelling, or blistering)
  • Temporary worsening of acne in the first few weeks — this often settles with continued use
  • Changes in skin texture or increased oiliness
  • Diarrhoea — if this is severe, watery, or bloody, stop using Duac gel immediately and seek medical advice, as this may indicate antibiotic-associated colitis

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Duac Gel?

Serious side effects from Duac gel are rare but require prompt medical attention. Stop using the gel and seek urgent help if you experience any of the following:

  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction: swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; widespread rash or hives
  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhoea — this may indicate pseudomembranous colitis, a rare but serious complication associated with clindamycin use
  • Severe skin blistering or peeling beyond the application site

If you suspect a serious reaction, do not wait — call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department immediately.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as dryness or irritation, reducing application frequency temporarily and using a gentle moisturiser is usually sufficient. Make sure you are applying only a thin layer — using too much gel increases the likelihood of irritation without improving results. If side effects are moderate or do not improve within two to three weeks, speak to your pharmacist before stopping treatment abruptly.

You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps regulators monitor the safety of medicines in real-world use.

Can Duac Gel Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Duac gel should not be used at the same time as other topical antibiotic preparations, particularly erythromycin. Using two topical antibiotics together can reduce the effectiveness of both and accelerate the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria on the skin. You should also avoid using other potentially irritating topical products — such as alcohol-based toners, abrasive scrubs, or other acne treatments — at the same time as Duac gel, as these can significantly increase skin irritation. Always inform your prescriber of all medicines and skincare products you are currently using.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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