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Duac Once Daily Gel

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Duac Once Daily Gel 10mg/g 30mg/g
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  1. Click on the green "Get Started" button, then click "Start Consultation" button on the next page.
  2. Fill in our short consultation form.
  3. Choose delivery method and mode of payment.
  4. Our team of expert prescribers will assess whether medication is suitable.
  5. If you get the green light and it is deemed suitable, your order will be processed quickly and efficiently.
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Once your order is dispatched you will receive a tracking number via sms and email.

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We deliver medications between Monday and Saturday. You can upgrade to Saturday delivery on Friday.

My Order Hasn’t Arrived What Should I Do?

You should receive a tracking number with your order which you can use this number to track your parcel online. This should give you a clear indication of where your parcel is. If you haven’t received your parcel in the time frame given by our couriers, contact your local depot to find out where it is. You can also contact our support team who will do this for you.

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On checkout you will be asked to leave your mobile number so our courier can text you about the delivery. This is also useful if the courier has problems finding your address. We will not use your mobile number for anything else.

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You can pay for your order using credit, debit card and bank transfer.

Card Payment: Please notify us that you wish to cancel your order. Your refund will show available In 1 - 3 days.

Bank Transfer: A member of our team will contact you requesting for your bank details. These details are only used to transfer the funds back into your account.

Patient Reviews: How Duac Once Daily Gel Has Made a Difference

Treatment Information

Table of contents:

Buy Duac Once Daily Gel UK

Duac Once Daily Gel is an acne treatment which is contains benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin. It fights bacteria which are commonly associated with acne.

If you don't have time to get to your local pharmacy to pick up your prescription, you can buy Duac Once Daily Gel online from Prescription Doctor's trusted GPhC registered pharmacy.

To begin your order, simply complete our online medical form for our doctor to review. If your order is approved by our doctor before 3pm on weekdays, our UK based pharmacy will dispatches your item the same day via a next-day, discreet delivery straight to your door.

Can I buy Duac Once Daily Gel over the counter in the UK?

Duac Once Daily Gel is only available on prescription in the UK and cannot be bought over the counter.

With Prescription Doctor's online private prescription service, you can get a prescription for Duac Once Daily Gel online following a short online medical questionnaire.

How does Duac Once Daily Gel work?

Duac Once Daily Gel contains two active ingredients which work together to clear acne; benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin. These two active ingredients kill and prevent the growth of bacteria called propionibacterium acnes.

The bacteria, which live on the skin, feed on an oily substance called sebum. Sebum is produced by sebaceous glands in within the pores of the skin, and plays a key role in lubricating and protecting the skin.

When the bacteria eat sebum, they produce a fatty acid which causes inflammation and acne.

Clindamycin is an antibiotic which stops the bacteria from reproducing. It works by preventing the bacteria from creating a protein they need to replicate.

Benzoyl peroxide is an antiseptic which rids bacteria from the skin. It can also clean out pores in the skin, removing dirt and other substances such as dead skin cells and sebum, which can block the pores.

By ridding the bacteria from the skin, the inflammatory fatty acids are not produced and so the skin is able to heal.

How long does it take Duac Once Daily Gel to work?

It takes approximately 2 to 5 weeks for Duac Once Daily Gel to start working, though it may take up to 2 months before it reaches its maximum effectiveness. It's important to continue using the gel for as long as prescribed by your doctor.

You should not use Duac Once Daily Gel for longer than 12 weeks continuously.

Your doctor will tell you how long you need to use Duac Once Daily Gel for. You should always speak to your doctor before stopping treatment with Duac Once Daily Gel.

How do I use Duac Once Daily Gel?

Dual Gel is a topical cream which is applied directly to the skin once a day - usually in the evening.

  1. Thoroughly wash the area you will be applying the skin with soap and warm water. Remove any make-up from the area you will be applying the gel to. Dry the area completely by patting it with a towel.
  2. Squeeze an appropriate amount of Duac Once Daily Gel onto your fingers.
    • For your face only, squeeze out an amount of gel which reaches from the tip of your finger to the first joint or crease in your finger. This is a finger tip length.
    • For your face and back, apply two and a half finger tip lengths of cream.
  3. Using your finger tips, gently rub the cream into the affected areas. If the gel is not absorbed by your skin, you are applying too much and should use less gel next time.
  4. Wash your hands after applying the gel. Use soap and warm water.
  5. Allow the area of skin to dry before applying any make-up or topical creams, such as moisturisers.

If you experience dryness or skin peeling, you can use Duac Once Daily Gel less often to allow your skin to heal and adjust to the treatment. You can also use a gentle moisturiser to treat peeling or dry skin. When choosing a moisturiser, look for hypoallergenic creams which are free from oils or fragrances.

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Duac Once Daily Gel?

If you use more Duac Once Daily Gel than you should, wipe away the excess with a clean, dry tissue and discard of it appropriately. Use Duac Once Daily Gel less often or stop using the gel for a few days before starting again.

Using more Duac Once Daily Gel will not clear your acne faster, but can increase your risk of side effects such as skin irritations.

What should I do if I forget to use Duac Once Daily Gel?

If you forget to use Duac Once Daily Gel when you should, use it at the next usual time.

Do not use more Duac Once Daily Gel to make up for a missed dose.

If you find it difficult to remember when to take medicine, set a reminder on your phone or store your medicine in a place which is likely to jog your memory.

What should I do if I want to stop using Duac Once Daily Gel?

If you wish to stop using Duac Once Daily Gel, speak to your doctor first.

What should I do if I accidenally get Duac Once Daily Gel in my eye?

If you accidentally get Duac Once Daily Gel in your eye, immediately rinse your eyes with cold water. If stinging persists, seek immediate medical attention by going straight to your nearest accident and emergency department. Remember to take the packaging and any remaining medicine with you so that doctors know exactly what you have taken.

Side effects and cautions of Duac Once Daily Gel

Before you use Duac Once Daily Gel, it's important to read the accompanying patient information leaflet. This leaflet contains important information on how to use and store Duac Once Daily Gel, as well as other safety notices that you need to be aware during your course of treatment.

You can view the patient information leaflets for Duac Once Daily Gel here:

Duac Once Daily 10 mg/g + 30 mg/g Gel

Duac Once Daily 10 mg/g + 50 mg/g Gel

Always speak to your doctor before you use Duac Once Daily Gel to ensure it is safe for you.

Side effects of Duac Once Daily Gel

Duac Once Daily Gel, like all medicines, carries the risk of side effects. Though it's important to be aware that not everybody who uses Duac Once Daily Gel will experience side effects.

It's important to remain vigilant of any side effects you experience during your course of treatment with Duac Once Daily Gel and to inform your doctor if any side effects occur.

Stop using Duac Once Daily Gel and see a doctor straight away if you notice any of the following serious side effects:

  • Signs of an allergic reaction
  • Severe or prolonged diarrhoea, or abdominal cramps
  • Severe burning, peeling or itching

Very common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):

  • Burning feeling, dry skin, itching or peeling at the site of the application
  • Redness of the skin (especially during the first few weeks of treatment)

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Headache
  • Red, itchy skin, rash (dermatitis)
  • Sensitivity to sunlight

Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Tingling sensation
  • Worsening of acne

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. Further information regarding the safety of Duac Once Daily Gel, including a complete list of side effects, can be found within the patient information leaflet enclosed within the packaging of your treatment.

If you experience any side effects, regardless of whether they are listed above or in the patient information leaflet, it is important that you report them to your doctor.

Allergies

Do not use Duac Once Daily Gel if you are allergic to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin or any of the other ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet.

If you experience the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, stop using Duac Once Daily Gel and seek immediate medical attention by going straight to your nearest accident and emergency department. Remember to take the packaging and any remaining medicine with you so that doctor's know exactly what you have taken.

Signs of an allergic reaction include:

  • Chest tightening
  • Dry, red and cracked skin
  • Itchy, red watery eyes
  • Raised, itchy, red rash (hives)
  • Swelling of the lips, tongue, eyes or face
  • Tummy pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Wheezing

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or breastfeeding, it's important to speak to your doctor before using Duac Once Daily Gel as there is limited information regarding the safety of Duac Once Daily Gel when used by pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Do not apply Duac Once Daily Gel to your breasts if you are breastfeeding.

Other safety information

Always speak to your doctor before you buy Duac Once Daily Gel online from Prescription Doctor.

Please inform our doctor of all medicines you are currently taking, including those bought over the counter and health supplements.

Do not use Duac Once Daily Gel past the expiry date printed on the packaging. The date refers to the last day of the indicated month. For example, "EXP: 03/25" means the 31st of March 2025.

Never throw away medicine via household or water waste. Take any unwanted or expired medication to your pharmacy and ask them to dispose of them safely on your behalf.

Always store Duac Once Daily Gel out of sight and reach of children and pets.

Never share your medicine with anybody else, even if they are experiencing the same symptoms or have the same condition as you.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drink alcohol while using Duac Once Daily Gel?

It is safe to drink alcohol while using Duac Once Daily Gel. You should avoid drinking more than the recommended weekly limit of 14 units of alcohol.

Will Duac Once Daily Gel affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Duac Once Daily Gel should not impact your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you accidentally get Duac Once Daily Gel in your eye, you may experience blurred vision which may render you unable to safely drive or operate machinery. Speak to your doctor if you accidentally get Duac Once Daily Gel in your eye.

How do I store Duac Once Daily Gel?

Do not store Duac Once Daily Gel above 25°C and discard the medicine 2 months after opening. Always store Duac Once Daily Gel out of reach from children and pets.

Will Duac Once Daily Gel affect my contraception?

Duac Once Daily Gel does not interact with hormonal contraceptives, such as the combined contraceptive pill or morning after pill.

Will Duac Once Daily Gel affect my fertility?

There is no evidence that Duac Once Daily Gel affects male or female fertility.

Does Duac Once Daily Gel treat acne scars?

Duac Once Daily Gel is not indicated specifically for treating acne scars, though some users have reported that the appearance of scarring has diminished while using Duac Once Daily Gel. To prevent scarring, it is important not to pick or pop your spots. Acne scars usually fade over time.

Can I use Duac Once Daily Gel with other topical treatments?

You should avoid using Duac Once Daily Gel with other acne treatments.

Can I wear make-up while using Duac Once Daily Gel?

You can wear make-up while using Duac Once Daily Gel. Wait for the area you applied Duac Once Daily Gel to to completely dry before applying make-up. Choose hypoallergenic make-up and avoid oily cosmetic products.

What should I do if Duac Once Daily Gel does not work for me?

If you do not notice an improvement after 4 weeks, or if your acne worsens, speak to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to recommend an alternative treatment for your acne.

Sources

Stiefel, 2020. Duac Once Daily 10 mg/g + 30 mg/g Gel: Summary of Product Characteristics

Stiefel 2020. Duac Once Daily 10mg/g + 50mg/g Gel: Summary of Product Characteristics

NHS, 2019. Benzoyl Peroxide

British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), 2020. Acne: Patient Information Leaflet

Additional Resources

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What is dry skin brushing and what role does it play in acne?

Many natural health experts are true believers in dry skin brushing. Results have been shown to improve circulation throughout the body and even reduce the appearance of cellulite.But just how does dry skin brushing help improve acne?The idea is that increased circulation means increased blood and oxygen to your cells. This, in turn, helps the body detoxify itself more effectively.  If you rid the body of excess toxins, you may notice healthier skin.Due to a modern diet which is often lacking in fibre and nutrients, many people are constipated on a regular basis.  If the body does not rid itself of waste through its regular channels, you get a buildup of toxins in the colon.These toxins then enter the bloodstream and go to the liver for detoxification.  If your liver is overworked, then your skin and overall health will be affected.This is where dry skin brushing comes into play!Dry skin brushing can be beneficial because it gently removes the top layer of the skin.  It also improves the circulation in the body.  As a result, toxins are removed from the body and organs, including the skin.Here is how to dry brush the skin effectively:Remove all clothing. Using a natural, bristle brush, gently start brushing from the feet upwards.First, do both legs, moving in gentle, long strokes.Then move on to the arms.Then do the back.Finally, brush the abdomen and chest area.Tips:Use circular strokes and always brush upwards towards the chest area.It’s important to be gentle to avoid breaking the natural skin collagen.For best results, aim to dry skin brush at least once a day.Another option for increasing circulation to the face is to wet a muslin cloth in warm water and then gently rub it over the face in a circular motion. This will help regenerate skin cells and improve blood circulation.To summarise, dry skin brushing is recommended by many natural healthcare providers as a way to improve overall health.  It has been demonstrated to offer numerous benefits for both the body and the skin.  Many users report increased energy, healthier skin, and even weight loss. It's certainly worth trying to see what results you get and whether it improves your acne.
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What is dry skin brushing and what role does it play in acne?
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Natural ways to control your acne

Acne can be frustrating when you're a teenager in high school. However, as an adult, it just seems too cruel to be true. When you are a teenager, most people understand that hormones are responsible for the many changes going on, including the acne you may be experiencing.  However, in many cases, once your hormones stabilise, you will no longer experience as many problems with acne.It is more common than people realise, but adults do suffer from acne, too.  In many of these cases, hormones are still to blame.However, it is possible to improve adult acne.  It is important to look at what you are eating, and then the goal is to stabilise your hormones.Here are some ways to do this:Consume less meatSome meat is full of hormones that do not belong to you but instead come from the animal source.  Cut back on meat, and you will reduce the level of foreign hormones in your system.Consume less dairyDairy, like meat, is full of hormones that do not belong to you.  Avoid excess consumption of dairy products.  Nowadays, you can find dairy substitutions for most regular dairy products.Lessen your stress levelsReducing stress levels in your body can help regulate your hormones.  Exercise is a great stress reliever.  Meditation, prayer, or simply having quiet time to unwind can all improve stress levels in the body.Consume less sugarSugar can cause insulin spikes in the body.  This excess insulin can lead to numerous damaging conditions that are harmful to the body.  Avoid sugar and opt for natural sweeteners instead.  Agave nectar and stevia are good alternatives.  The less sugar you eat, the less you will need as your body adjusts to the changes.  Consume fresh whole foodsThe more natural your diet, the healthier you and your hormonal system will be.  Opt for whole grains such as brown rice, and eat plenty of beans and green vegetables. Opt for natural foods, such as vegetables, and avoid processed foods. Consume less saltToo much salt can be damaging to the body and, in turn, to your hormones.  Yes, you do need salt, but not in the quantities that us Brits are accustomed to in our diets. Excess salt can increase the risk of other health conditions, such as high blood pressure.  Gradually adjust your palate to eating less salt.  Like sugar, the less you eat, the less you’ll crave it.Improving adult acne is possible.  The key is to get your hormones under control, and the best way to do this is by eating less meat and dairy, reducing stress through several methods, and eating whole, unrefined foods.  If, for any reason, you continue to have problems with acne, then you should seek the help of a natural health practitioner or medical doctor.
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Natural ways to control your acne
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Control your hormones, control your acne

There is no doubt that out-of-control hormones can lead to acne. Hence, if you can control the hormones, it may also help control the acne.But just how do you balance the hormones in the body? Here are two big ways:1. DietMany of us have an excess of unhealthy hormones in our bodies.  Many of these hormones do not even belong to us!  Instead, we ingest them through our consumption of meat and dairy products.If you're serious about controlling your hormones, the first place to start is with your diet. By reducing the amount of meat and dairy that you consume, you can reduce the level of excess hormones.Instead of regular milk, opt for soy or rice milk, and include several vegetarian meals in your weekly diet.  Avoid using cheese, other dairy products, and meat on a regular basis. Instead, use meat and dairy in moderation.Additionally, be mindful of the foods you eat. Additives, chemicals, and preservatives can all be very damaging to your hormonal system.  Instead of eating junk food or pre-packaged foods, choose fresh, natural, whole foods. These foods will help keep your body functioning at its best and regulate your hormones.Reducing sugar is also necessary to help control the hormones. Excess use of sugar can cause severe insulin spikes in the body. This will lead to an overproduction of certain hormones, which have been shown to damage both the body and skin.2. Reduce stress in your bodyAnother way to regulate hormone levels in your body is through exercise. Many suffer from pent-up stress, and this stress can wreak havoc on the body's hormonal systems. Regular, vigorous exercise helps reduce stress and, in turn, controls the hormones in the body.Meditation has also been proven to reduce stress levels in the body. Start slowly and simply sit in a quiet space for a few minutes. Concentrate on your breathing, and imagine yourself relaxing into your body.  The idea is simply to let your body and mind rest for a few minutes each day.Prayer has also been shown to improve overall health. Like meditation, it allows you quiet time. By allowing a higher power into your life, you can let go of the things you cannot control.To conclude, getting your hormones under control means you can also manage your acne effectively. The above tips will help you get started.
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Control your hormones, control your acne
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How to avoid acne while wearing a face mask?

Due to the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, many people have been wearing protective face masks to help prevent the spread of the virus. As the UK reviews steps to ease lockdown, it has become mandatory to wear a face mask on public transport and when visiting the hospital.However, for people with sensitive skin, wearing a face mask can cause or exacerbate acne, rosacea, eczema, and other skin conditions.The moist, humid environment caused by wearing a face mask traps sweat, natural oils, and dead skin, leading to an outbreak of acne.Friction against the face, particularly around the chin, cheeks and bridge of the nose, can cause an itchy rash or exacerbate acne symptoms.The acne that develops has been nicknamed 'maskne' – a contraction of 'mask' and 'acne'. Acne is an unpleasant and often embarrassing condition which usually afflicts the face, causing itchy red blemishes.While wearing a face mask can hide your physical appearance, which can boost your confidence when you're out and about, it doesn't treat the underlying condition and can actually worsen the irritation.There are ways to prevent and even treat maskne, and, as with most skin conditions, it's a case of trying different things to find the one that works best for you.Here are some things to consider to prevent and treat maskne.Choosing the right type of face maskDoctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals wear a specific type of medical-grade mask, referred to as an FFP3 face mask. However, for the public, many people are opting for more affordable options, such as surgical masks, paper masks, washable fabric masks, or homemade masks made from scarves, t-shirts, or bandannas.The different materials used to make face masks can impact people's skin in different ways. For example, paper masks can cause constant friction against your face, combined with the trapped warm air and moisture, which can create or worsen existing skin problems.On the other hand, reusable face masks can cause dryness, which leads to irritation, since many fabrics used for them absorb the natural oils on our skin.Additionally, the residue from laundry detergents and fabric softeners can also lead to clogged pores and irritation from contact. Also, if you are already prone to acne, avoid cloth masks made of rough fabrics and opt for ones made with cotton fibres instead.While it’s important to ensure a tight seal around the edge of your face mask, this can put pressure on your skin and cause discomfort, particularly on the nose.For many people, it will be a matter of trying out different face masks and finding the one that suits their skin type best.Aside from having the most appropriate mask for you, it's equally important to ensure you are wearing it properly. You should be careful when putting on and taking off your face mask to mitigate the risk of accidentally contaminating yourself and other surfaces. Check out our guide for putting on and taking off face masks for more information,Always wear a clean face maskSome people are using disposable masks that can be thrown away after each use, however the UK government has encouraged people to make their own masks.The danger with such fabric masks is that they can end up harbouring germs and dirt. This is why cleaning your mask is so important.If your face mask is reusable, you should wash it as soon as you take it off.For non-reusable masks, dispose of them after use.By doing this, you are reducing the risk of spreading germs and helping your skin from breaking out further. It is a good idea to have at least two face masks. This way, you will always have a fresh face mask on hand, even if one is in the wash.If your mask is washable, your choice of detergent matters. Consider washing your face mask in non-bio detergent if you have sensitive skin.Make sure to let your mask dry completely after every wear and then wash it to remove any sweat and dirt that may have been trapped inside.Please also be mindful that when wearing a face mask, avoid touching it throughout the day, as germs on the mask could be passed onto your hands.Apply moisturiser before wearing your face maskMoisturiser keeps your skin hydrated and acts as a barrier to friction from your face mask.Apply the moisturiser around your mouth and nose area, as well as anywhere the face mask is likely to rub against your skin, to help form a barrier.For the best results, choose a moisturiser which is fragrance and oil-free.Remove any make-up as soon as you take off your face maskIdeally, if you are wearing a face mask, it is best to avoid wearing make-up, or at least minimise the amount to avoid clogging the pores around the area where the mask sits.If you are wearing make-up, make sure you remove it as soon as you take your face mask off. As the mask has been on your skin for however long, it may clog your pores.Wash your face thoroughly once you remove the face mask to remove unwanted bacteria, dirt, and dust particles, which can all cause irritation and sensitivity.Opt for a gentle moisturising soap, such as Dove, to wash your face. You can also use an emollient designed for sensitive skin, such as Hydromol or Aveeno.It is also important to pat your face dry with a towel rather than rubbing your skin. This prevents unnecessary friction, which can irritate the skin and exacerbate symptoms further.Stick to a gentle skincare routineMake sure your skincare routine is gentle. Avoid fragrant products, as they can aggravate your skin further.Avoid washing your face more than once a day, as frequent washing of the skin can remove natural oils that keep your skin hydrated and can exacerbate your symptoms.For acne sufferers, products containing benzoyl peroxide usually help.Ask a pharmacist about over-the-counter treatments which can reduce your symptoms. They will be able to help you choose the most suitable treatment for you and your skin type.If your maskne is getting worse no matter what you try, make an appointment with your doctor, who will be able to advise you further on treatments which might be more suitable for you.For persistent acne, your GP may be able to prescribe an acne treatment such as Epiduo. You can buy acne treatments such as Epiduo online from Prescription Doctor.We offer a range of acne treatments which you can order online and have delivered to your door the next day.ReferencesNHS, 2019. Acne.British Association of Dermatologists, 2020. Acne.
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How to avoid acne while wearing a face mask?
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How to use Tea-tree oil for acne?

Acne is not just something that affects hormonal teenagers; adults can suffer, too. It has nothing to do with age, and there are a number of reasons for it. It can occur due to diet, hormone imbalances, skin bacteria, stress, and blocked pores. It could be a combination of these things or just one of them, but the result is the same – lots of spots that not only look unpleasant but can also be sore and itchy. Additionally, for those who suffer, it is crucial to take extra care of their skin.The truth is that tea tree oil may work – studies show that at 5% strength, it can have an effect – but it is often less effective than other medicines that are specifically designed to treat acne. However, since it is seen as a ‘natural’ product, many people still like to try it to treat their acne.It is finding the 5% concentration that often proves to be a problem. In most chemists and supermarkets, the concentration tends to be listed as around 0.5%, which is not concentrated enough to make any difference to your acne (even assuming tea tree oil makes a difference at all). You might have better luck searching in health food shops, where the concentration can be as high as 3%, but again, it might still not be enough.Be cautious when searching for higher concentrations of tea tree oil; selecting too high a concentration can irritate your skin even more, and rather than having a soothing effect, it may exacerbate the symptoms of your acne, leading to inflammation and soreness.How to use Tea Tree Oil?First, use a gentle cleaning wash to clean your face. This will leave the skin as fresh as possible, while removing any dirt and dead skin cells that would otherwise clog your pores, which can cause irritation. Exfoliation can also be beneficial, provided you don't use products that might further irritate your skin. If you suffer from recurrent acne, washing your face with a specialist formula daily is important, regardless of whether you use tea tree oil or not.Once you have washed your face, you can begin using tea tree oil. The amount and method of application will vary between brands and formulations. Some tea tree oil products may need to be diluted in water before use; others may be in gel form, which can be applied directly to the skin. Always check the label for instructions on how to use the product.A common instruction on how to use tea tree oil is to apply a few drops – diluted if necessary – of the oil onto a cotton wool pad and gently dab it onto your face. You should feel a soothing sensation when you do this. Alternatively, take some moisturiser and add a few drops of tea tree oil to it before applying it all over your face.If you notice signs of irritation or experience an allergic reaction to the oil, stop using it immediately. Wash the product off your face and consult your doctor for advice.It is also possible to buy tea tree oil that is already mixed into a facial wash. These do tend to have much lower concentrations but can be a good way to calm the skin if your acne is particularly sore and painful. Some of these products may also contain exfoliation beads, which gently scrub the skin to remove dead skin cells, which might further worsen your acne.There are many complimentary and natural "treatments" for acne, though they may not all work. Be sure to speak to your doctor or a dermatologist before using tea tree oil to treat your acne. Alternatively, your doctor may prescribe an anti-acne treatment that contains salicylic acid, which reduces oil production and skin shedding. You may find these prescription acne treatments provide more effective relief in a shorter space of time.Before using any new skin product, perform a patch test to determine if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. You should also consider consulting your doctor or a dermatologist for advice on how to reduce your acne symptoms in other ways, such as exercising, managing stress, or taking precautionary measures during certain seasons.
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How to use Tea-tree oil for acne?
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What is 'bacne' and how is it treated?

When you think of acne, you will probably think of spots and pustules on your face. However, this is not the only place where acne can appear; it can actually affect any area of the body that has hair follicles or oil-secreting glands. These areas include the chest, shoulders, and back.'Bacne', as back acne is colloquially known, affects as many as 60% of people, but it is not often discussed. Whereas facial acne (which affects up to 95% of people aged between 11 and 30) is obvious and cannot be hidden, back acne is easy to hide away and, therefore, can be forgotten about for the most part, or at least not dealt with. However, this ‘out of sight, out of mind’ mindset regarding back acne is not helpful; there are ways that back acne can be treated, and the sooner you start using them, the better.What Causes back acne?Just like your face, your back has many sebaceous glands. These glands secrete an oily substance called sebum, which helps to ensure the hair and skin remain properly moisturised. It is made up of free fatty acids, triglycerides, squalene, cholesterol, cholesterol esters, and wax esters. It is an invaluable part of the body.However, when sebum rises to the surface of the skin, it mixes with lipids, sweat, and various debris from the surrounding environment. When this happens, the oil starts to block the pores of the skin and the hair follicles on your body. When the hair follicles become too clogged, they form an acne lesion.Different Types of Back AcneThe term ‘back acne’ actually covers a wide range of different-looking spots and marks. Although they are all caused by blocked follicles and pores, the reasons they emerge differently are varied.WhiteheadsWhiteheads are the most common type of back acne. Rather than erupting, the blocked follicle remains closed and therefore resembles a white bump on the skin.BlackheadsConversely, when a follicle opens up, it forms a blackhead. The reason the head of the spot turns black is because the sebum is reacting with the air – it has nothing to do with dirt, and you cannot ‘scrub’ a blackhead ‘clean’.PapulesIf the acne you are experiencing is sore and appears as small, pink bumps, you have papules.PustulesAnother term for a pustule is a pimple, a term you may be familiar with. As the original name suggests, these are filled with pus, so they look white or yellow, and the base is red.CystsCysts are also pus-filled, but they are much larger than pustules and can be extremely painful. If treated improperly or if they are picked or scratched, they can leave scars.NodulesSometimes, acne lesions don’t make it to the surface of the skin, and those that form deeper down are called nodules. These feel like hard bumps, and they are rather large and painful.How To Treat Back AcneAs with most medical conditions, it is best to try to prevent back acne in the first place. Although this is not always possible, there are some measures you can take that may help.To start, check the leaflets and labels of any medications you are taking. Some drugs can list the development of acne as a side effect. If that is the case, it is best to consult a healthcare professional about alternative medications that you may be able to take. Remember, though, that although back acne can be uncomfortable, if the medication is doing you good, it might be something you choose to live with to feel better in every other aspect of your life.Oil-based skin care products can also be an issue, as adding more oil to already oily skin can cause your follicles to become blocked more easily. Search for oil-free products, including moisturisers and sun protection. Check the labels of anything you intend to use; if it claims to be non-comedogenic, it means that it won’t cause blackheads, for example.Pressure on your back from carrying a bag or sports equipment can also cause your hair follicles to become blocked. If you carry equipment or a backpack for long periods, try to reduce this.Good skin care is another way of reducing acne (and not just back acne, but wherever you happen to have it). Regularly use a gentle cleanser to wash yourself, and always take a shower after any form of exercise, particularly if you are sweaty.If you still experience back acne, there are over-the-counter treatments available that can help. These will include ingredients such as sulphur, resorcinol, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide.If none of the above has helped you, you will need to seek advice from a dermatologist. They will be able to prescribe medication to reduce and even remove any signs of back acne.
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What is 'bacne' and how is it treated?

Treatment information

  • Product Name: Duac Once Daily Gel
  • Manufacturer: Stiefel
  • Active Ingredient(s): Benzoyl peroxide and Clindamycin
  • Administration: Topical
  • Presentation: Gel
  • Available Strength: 10mg/g benzoyl peroxide + 30mg/g clindamycin, 10mg/g benzoyl peroxide + 50mg/g clindamycin
  • Exemption: Prescription Only
  • Dosage: Apply once daily to the affected areas
  • Description: Duac Once Daily Gel is a treatment for acne which contains an antibiotic and an antiseptic to clear the bacteria responsible for acne.
  • Drug Class: Antibiotic
  • Alcohol Consumption: No influence
  • When Pregnant: Speak to your doctor before using Duac Once Daily Gel if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.
  • When Breastfeeding: Speak to your doctor before using Duac gel if you are breastfeeding.
  • Price: 24.99 GBP
  • https://www.prescriptiondoctor.com/storage/product_images_th/duac_once_daily_gel_10mg_30mg.jpg
Click here to view the Duac Once Daily Gel - Patient Information Leaflet

Authored & Reviewed By

Adil Bhaloda

Adil Bhaloda

Pharmacist
Adil provides governance for the online services, overseeing prescription dispensation in line with UK pharmacy standards.

Published on: 29/10/2020 Reviewed on: 13/03/2024

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