FDA Approves Epiduo Acne Treatment

What more can be said about the woes of acne? It is one of the most irritating skin conditions we endure in our lifetime. Affecting both teenagers and adults, acne most often appears on the face, chest and back (backne). The incidence of acne blemishes can be a mild annoyance, or a severe skin problem that is highly embarrassing, creates social discomfort, and even causes physical pain. In response to acne being such a common cosmetic issue, there have been great advancements in terms of available, effective treatments in recent years. One of the newest acne treatments to be marketed in the U.S. is Epiduo™ Gel.

What is Epiduo?

Epiduo™ Gel is a brand new topical acne treatment that was approved by the FDA in January 2009. On the main Epiduo website, the product markets itself as the only FDA-approved topical acne treatment that uses the effective combination of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide. With this proven combination, Epiduo reportedly prevents new acne from forming, and also treats existing acne blemishes. Epiduo Gel's combination of active ingredients is also alleged to be effective for both mild and moderate acne.

How Does Epiduo Fight Acne?

Epiduo's acne-fighting active ingredients, adapalene and benzoyl peroxide, are the keys to its success. Adapalene is a topical gel retinoid, commonly known by its brand name, Differin. Adapalene is thought to affect the growth of skin cells and help with inflammation, as well as unclog pores. Benzoyl peroxide fights acne by reducing acne-causing bacteria and drying up excess oil.

Epiduo Gel is applied daily to clean, dry skin where acne is present. The treatment can take a few weeks to start visibly working on acne, and may cause dryness, redness, itching and peeling.

Is Epiduo Right for Me?

Along with Epiduo™ Gel and other topical solutions, treatments for acne can include oral medications and cosmetic skin care treatments such as Microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and IPL Photofacial. To find the acne treatment specifically suited to your problem skin, it's best to meet with a dermatologist or skin care professional in your area. They will be able to effectively answer your questions about acne, discuss and compare your skin care options with you, and provide you with safe, high quality treatments.

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