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Differin Epiduo
Generic name: adapalene and benzoyl peroxide gel (topical)
What is Differin Epiduo Acne Gel?
Differin Epiduo is used to treat acne in adults and children aged 12 years and older. It is available over-the-counter in a pump bottle (15 g, 45 g) and tube (2 g) for once-daily topical use.
Differin Epiduo acne gel combines two active ingredients: adapalene 0.1%, a retinoid that helps normalize skin cell turnover and reduce inflammation, and benzoyl peroxide 2.5%, which kills acne-causing skin bacteria. By targeting two of the main causes of acne at the same time, Differin Epiduo can overcome common acne mechanisms that a single-ingredient product may not address.
Differin Epiduo is applied as a thin layer to the entire affected area once daily; it is not a spot treatment. Results may take up to 3 months of daily use to appear.
Differin Epiduo (NDA220736) received FDA approval and became available over the counter on May 22, 2026. It is distributed by Galderma Laboratories, LP.
Warnings
For external use only.
Do not use Differin Epiduo:
- On damaged skin (cuts, abrasions, eczema, or sunburn)
- If you are allergic to adapalene or any ingredient in this product
- If you have very sensitive skin
- If you are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a doctor before use. Some other retinoid drugs have been shown to cause birth defects. There is no specific evidence that Differin Epiduo causes birth defects in humans when used topically as directed.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you use any other acne medications or have any other skin or medical conditions.
Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
Differin Epiduo is not for use in children aged less than 12.
Side Effects
Common side effects
The most common side effects of Differin Epiduo are:
- Redness
- Itching
- Dryness
- Burning, peeling, or possible swelling.
These are most likely to occur in the first 4 weeks of use or when using more than one topical acne medication at a time. Skin irritation usually lessens after 4 weeks of continued use. If irritation occurs, you may be able to reduce it by using the product less frequently, using a moisturizer, or using only one topical acne medication at a time.
During the early weeks of use, acne may appear to worsen before it improves. This is normal.
Serious side effects and warnings
Differin Epiduo may cause serious side effects. Stop use and ask a doctor if you:
- Have an allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as itching, rash, hives, swelling of the lips or eyelids, or shortness of breath. Do not use Differin Epiduo again until you have spoken to a doctor.
- Develop worsening irritation. If redness, itching, dryness, or burning gets worse, stop use and ask a doctor before continuing.
- Have no improvement after 3 months. If you see no improvement after 3 months of once-daily use, stop use and speak to a doctor.
- Become pregnant. Stop use and ask a doctor if you become pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant, while using this product.
How to use Differin Epiduo
Adults and children 12 years and older should apply Differin Epiduo once daily, at the same time each day.
- Gently clean skin with a mild, non-irritating cleanser, and pat dry before applying.
- Apply a thin layer to the entire affected area, for example, if acne is on the face, apply to the entire face, not just individual spots.
- Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mouth. If contact occurs, flush the area with water immediately.
- Do not apply to damaged skin (cuts, abrasions, eczema, or sunburn)
- Wash your hands after use
- If going outdoors, allow the gel to dry and then apply sunscreen. If irritation or sensitivity develops, stop use of both products and ask a doctor.
Applying more than once daily will not improve results and may worsen skin irritation.
- Limit sun exposure, including light from tanning beds. Use sunscreen when going outdoors.
- Avoid contact with hair and dyed fabrics; benzoyl peroxide may bleach them.
- Do not wax to remove hair in areas where Differin Epiduo has been applied, as this may worsen skin irritation.
- Avoid harsh soaps, astringents, abrasive cleansers, and other products with strong drying effects while using this product.
What other drugs will affect Differin Epiduo?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you use any other acne medications. Using more than one topical acne medication at a time increases the risk of skin irritation. You may want to wait until any irritation from another product has cleared before starting Differin Epiduo.
Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you take.
Storage
Store at 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Protect from freezing, light, and heat. Do not use after the expiry date on the packaging.
Ingredients
Active ingredients: Adapalene 0.1% (retinoid), Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%
Inactive ingredients: acrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate copolymer, docusate sodium, edetate disodium, glycerin, isohexadecane, poloxamer 124, polysorbate 80, propylene glycol, purified water, and sorbitan oleate
Differin Epiduo is manufactured by G Production Inc. for Galderma Laboratories, L.P., Fort Worth, TX 76177 USA. NDC: 0299-4908.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer. Source page medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, Senior Medical Editor, B. Pharm on September 24, 2026.