Epiduo
Epiduo is a prescription acne ointment made by Galderma Pharmaceuticals. It is a fairly simple formula with widespread distribution, but is it for you?
Epiduo Ingredient Analysis
Epiduo contains only two active ingredients, accompanied by a number of standard synthetic petroleum-derived moisturizers. The active ingredients include:
- 2.5% Benzoyl peroxide
- 1% Adapalene
Adapalene is the only reason this product requires a prescription. This is a retinoid which is a chemical relative of Vitamin A and increases the rate at which your skin cells shed and are regenerated. Benzoyl peroxide also participates in this process and helps to chemically peel the dead or damaged skin cells involved in acne so that healthy skin can grow. It also helps kill off some of the bacteria that is primarily responsible for acne pimples.
Epiduo Effectiveness
Epiduo has shown generally very good results in reducing the appearance of acne. If speaking stricly in terms of being able to “kill” acne pimples, this formula does it pretty well.
Epiduo Safety Concerns
You’re probably thinking “If a retinoid is just a relative of Vitamin A, then it doesn’t sound all that dangerous…what’s up with the prescription?” Well, chronic over-use of retinoids like adapalene can be responsible for such terrible things as hair loss, bone pain, skin lesions, and peeling, bleeding skin….that’s why. However, at this concentration and when used as directed you shouldn’t have to worry about that. The most common side effects reported here were dryness and redness with some peeling.
Epiduo Value Rating
As a prescription medication this product will ultimately cost you at least $100 just to try (when factoring in the necessary doctor’s visit, prescription, etc.). As there is definitely no chance of a refund here and considering the rather unpleasant side-effects associated with this product, we rate it low on value. It definitely has what it takes to make a difference in your acne, but won’t be a good idea for your skin in the long-term.
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