• Targets and kills acne-causing bacteria 
    • Unblocks pores, reduces oil, and prevents antibiotic resistance
    • Effective dual-action treatment for sore, red, and persistent breakouts

 

How it works?

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Before ordering this treatment, you may have to complete an online consultation

Overview

When breakouts feel painful, inflamed, and persistent, Duac Gel can help calm things down fast. Combining clindamycin (an antibiotic) with benzoyl peroxide, it works to kill acne-causing bacteria, reduce redness, and prevent pores from becoming clogged.

Applied once daily, Duac Gel tackles both the underlying infection and the visible inflammation, making it one of the most trusted treatments for moderate acne. With consistent use, it helps restore clearer skin and puts you back in control of your confidence.

This medicine requires a secure online consultation with a UK-registered prescriber, and will only be supplied if clinically appropriate.


What is Duac Gel


Duac Gel is a prescription-only acne treatment that combines two active ingredients for a dual-action effect. Clindamycin (1%), an antibiotic, works by targeting and reducing the acne-causing bacteria C. acnes, while benzoyl peroxide (3% or 5%) helps to clear excess oil, unblock pores, and reduce the chance of bacteria developing resistance to antibiotics. This powerful combination makes Duac Gel particularly effective for moderate inflammatory acne, where sore, red spots are a common problem.

Directions

  • Apply a thin layer once daily in the evening to clean, dry skin.
  • Use only on affected areas — avoid eyes, lips, nostrils, and broken skin.
  • Wash hands after application.
  • Use a gentle cleanser and non-comedogenic moisturiser to minimise dryness.
  • Always apply sunscreen during the day, as benzoyl peroxide can increase sun sensitivity.


Improvement is usually seen after 6–8 weeks, with full benefits after several months of consistent use.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, Duac Gel can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them.

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

  • Dryness or peeling
  • Redness or irritation
  • Mild burning or stinging


Less common (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Skin sensitivity to sunlight
  • Fading or bleaching of fabrics (towels, clothing, bedding)


Most people tolerate Duac Gel well, and side effects (if they do occur) are usually mild. If you are concerned about any symptoms, or they do not improve, speak to your doctor, pharmacist, or prescriber.

Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet provided with your medicine for full details. If you experience severe or worrying symptoms, seek medical advice straight away. In an emergency, call 999 or go to A&E.

Warnings

Duac Gel may not be suitable if you:

  • Are allergic to clindamycin, lincomycin, or benzoyl peroxide
  • Have a history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or antibiotic-associated colitis
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding (should be used with caution and only if advised by a prescriber)


Avoid tanning beds and minimise sun exposure — always wear broad-spectrum SPF.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is Duac Gel and how does it work?

    Duac Gel combines clindamycin, an antibiotic that reduces acne-causing bacteria, with benzoyl peroxide, which unblocks pores and lowers inflammation. This dual action helps treat inflamed spots, red bumps and mixed acne patterns. It is often prescribed when single treatments have not been effective enough.

  • How long does Duac Gel take to work?

    Duac Gel usually starts improving acne within two to four weeks, with full benefit taking up to eight weeks. Some dryness or redness can appear at first, but this usually settles as the skin adapts. Consistent daily use gives the best results.

  • How do I apply Duac Gel correctly?

    Apply a thin layer once daily in the evening to clean, dry skin. Use only enough to lightly cover the affected area, as using more can increase irritation without improving results. Wash your hands afterwards to avoid bleaching fabrics.

  • What side effects can Duac Gel cause?

    Common effects include dryness, peeling, redness, or mild stinging in the early weeks. These usually settle as the skin adjusts. If irritation becomes severe, a clinician may suggest using it less often or adjusting your skincare routine.

  • Who should not use Duac Gel?

    Duac may not be suitable for people with very sensitive skin, eczema or a known allergy to clindamycin. It is also not recommended if you have a history of inflammatory bowel conditions. Your clinician will check it’s appropriate for your acne.

  • s Duac Gel stronger than benzoyl peroxide alone?

    Yes. Duac pairs benzoyl peroxide with clindamycin, giving it added antibacterial power for red, inflamed acne. It’s often chosen when benzoyl peroxide alone hasn’t controlled breakouts. Because it contains an antibiotic, courses are usually time-limited.

  • Can I buy Duac Gel online in the UK?

    Yes. Duac is prescription-only and available from regulated UK online pharmacies following a clinical consultation. This ensures it is safe, suitable and used for an appropriate length of time.

  • Is Duac Gel effective for inflamed or red acne?

    Yes. Duac is particularly effective for red, inflamed spots because clindamycin reduces bacteria while benzoyl peroxide targets blocked pores. Many people notice fewer red bumps within a few weeks, especially when acne is predominantly inflammatory.

  • Can Duac help with acne on the chest or back?

    Yes. Duac Gel can be used on the chest or back, although these areas may take longer to respond. Applying a thin layer once daily is usually enough. For widespread or deep acne, a clinician may recommend combining Duac with oral treatments.

  • Why is Duac only prescribed for limited courses?

    Duac contains an antibiotic, so it’s usually prescribed for a short period to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. Once inflammation is controlled, clinicians often switch to non-antibiotic treatments for maintenance.

  • Will Duac bleach clothes or bedding?

    Yes. The benzoyl peroxide in Duac can bleach towels, bedding and clothing. Allow the gel to dry completely before dressing and wash your hands after applying it to avoid accidental bleaching.

  • Can I use skincare or makeup with Duac Gel?

    Yes. Choose gentle, non-comedogenic products and avoid harsh scrubs or strong acids that may increase irritation. Moisturiser can be applied after Duac has absorbed or beforehand if your skin needs buffering.

  • Should I avoid the sun while using Duac Gel?

    Yes. Duac can increase sun sensitivity, which may lead to redness or irritation. Daily sunscreen and avoiding strong sun exposure help protect your skin and improve treatment comfort.

  • What if Duac Gel doesn’t improve my acne?

    If Duac hasn’t improved your acne after several weeks, your clinician may switch you to a retinoid-based treatment like adapalene or consider oral options. Acne often requires trying a few approaches before finding the most effective one.