Duac

Price range: £29.99 through £43.99

Once-daily treatment for inflamed acne spots. Duac combines clindamycin 1% and benzoyl peroxide 5% in one prescription gel.

✓ Two active ingredients
✓ 30g and 60g pack options
✓ Online assessment by a UK prescriber

Choose your pack below. Your prescriber will confirm suitability and course length.

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Type of medicine

Topical antibiotic gel used to treat mild to moderate acne in adults and adolescents aged 12 and over.

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Active Ingredient

Clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide – an antibiotic and antimicrobial combination that kills acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, and helps to unblock clogged pores.

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Time to results

Some improvement may appear after 2–5 weeks. Maximum continuous course: 12 weeks.

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Works by

Targeting acne-causing bacteria with its antibiotic properties, reducing inflammation, and clearing blocked pores to help resolve existing breakouts and prevent new ones from developing.

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Side effects

Frequently reported side effects include skin dryness, redness, peeling, itching, and a mild burning or stinging sensation in the areas where the gel has been applied.

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Before treatment

Tell your prescriber about allergies, bowel disease, pregnancy, breastfeeding and other medicines.

Duac Once Daily gel for acne

Duac 1% / 5% gel combines the antibiotic clindamycin with benzoyl peroxide. It treats mild to moderate acne, particularly inflamed spots. This page offers 30g and 60g packs of the same strength.

A defined treatment course

Apply a thin layer once each evening as prescribed. Some improvement may appear after 2–5 weeks. Duac must not be used for more than 12 continuous weeks; your prescriber should review your progress and advise on the next step.

Choosing between acne gels

Differin contains adapalene, while Epiduo combines adapalene and benzoyl peroxide. These are different treatment options, not products to add to Duac yourself. Tell your prescriber about everything you already use.

Duac may cause dryness or irritation and can bleach hair and fabrics. Follow the expiry date on your dispensing label: the gel has a two-month shelf life after dispensing.

Compare our prescription acne treatments and read our back acne treatment guide. Complete the assessment to find out whether Duac is suitable for you.

How to apply Duac

Apply a thin layer to clean, dry acne-affected skin once in the evening, as prescribed. Wash your hands afterwards. Avoid eyes, lips and broken skin. Do not use for more than 12 continuous weeks.

What ingredients are in Duac Gel?

Duac contains two active ingredients, clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide, working in combination to address the root causes of acne.  In addition to these, the gel incorporates several inactive ingredients such as carbomer, glycerol, and purified water, which contribute to the texture and stability of the formulation.  For a comprehensive list of all ingredients, always consult the patient information leaflet provided with your medication, particularly if you have any known allergies or sensitivities.  If you have any questions or concerns about what the product contains, seek advice from your healthcare professional prior to commencing treatment.

Warnings and precautions

Tell your prescriber about bowel disease, previous antibiotic-associated colitis, pregnancy, breastfeeding and other medicines. Avoid excessive sunlight and protect treated skin. Stop Duac and seek medical advice for significant or prolonged diarrhoea or abdominal cramps.

Possible side effects

Dryness, redness, peeling and burning can occur. Stop use for severe irritation. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty or swelling of the face, lips or throat.

Storage after dispensing

Keep below 25°C and do not freeze. Discard two months after dispensing, following the expiry date on your pharmacy label. Keep out of children’s sight and reach.

Duac is used to treat acne by reducing bacteria, clearing pores, and calming inflamed skin.

Some improvement may appear after 2–5 weeks. Your prescriber will review your response and course length. Do not use Duac for more than 12 continuous weeks.

Yes, moisturising daily can help reduce dryness and keep your skin barrier healthy.
Yes, Duac is a prescription-only gel and should be used under medical supervision.
Yes, Duac may bleach clothing, pillowcases, and towels. Let it dry fully before contact with fabric.