What are combination acne treatments?
Topical acne products are often more effective when used together and this has led to the development of combination acne treatments. An advantage compared to using products individually is simplicity - rather than applying two separate products at different times, both active ingredients are applied at once.
There are multiple combination products available. In the United Kingdom, all combination topical acne treatments are prescription only. Some commonly prescribed treatments include the following:
Epiduo is a combination of adapalene (a type of topical retinoid also known as differin) and benzoyl peroxide. Adapalene prevents excess skin cell division which can block hair follicles. Benzyol peroxide reduces inflammation and helps to control skin bacteria.
Duac gel is a combination of clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide. Clindamycin is a topical antibiotic that both reduces bacterial load on the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties.
How can I help
I see patients in person in central London. An in person consultation allows me to examine the skin directly including features that are difficult to capture in a photograph such as 3-dimensional changes and textural change. This is the better option where the diagnosis is uncertain, where previous treatment has not been effective, or where a procedure is being considered. For more straightforward conditions such as acne and rosacea a remote consultation with clear photographs can be a good option.
Related Articles
- What topical treatments are available for acne?
- What are topical retinoids?
- What is benzoyl peroxide?
- How are antibiotics used to treat acne?
