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Compare Epiduo vs. BenzeFoam

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Adapalene/benzoyl peroxide (Epiduo, Epiduo Forte) and benzoyl peroxide (Advanced Acne Wash, PanOxyl, and others) are both topical medications used to treat acne. They share the active ingredient benzoyl peroxide, which acts as an antiseptic to kill acne-causing bacteria. However there are some differences. Adapalene/benzoyl peroxide is a combination medication that also includes adapalene, a retinoid that helps prevent clogged pores by promoting skin cell turnover. This combination is available by prescription only, while benzoyl peroxide can be purchased over-the-counter in various forms and strengths. Adapalene/benzoyl peroxide is typically applied once daily, whereas benzoyl peroxide can be used up to three times a day, depending on the form and your provider's instructions. Common side effects of both medications include skin irritation and dryness, but adapalene/benzoyl peroxide may also cause skin scaling. Both medications can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and can bleach hair and fabrics. If you have sensitive skin, benzoyl peroxide might not be the best option for you, and you should consult your provider before use.

  • Epiduo (adapalene / benzoyl peroxide)
    Benzoyl peroxide
  • Epiduo (adapalene / benzoyl peroxide)
    Benzoyl peroxide

  • Summary of Epiduo vs. BenzeFoam

    Summary for Retinoid / Topical antibiotic
    Prescription only

    Epiduo (adapalene / benzoyl peroxide) is a topical gel that contains two active ingredients: adapalene (a retinoid) and benzoyl peroxide (an antiseptic). It's FDA approved to treat acne (pimples) in adults and children. The gel is typically applied to the skin once a day. Side effects aren't common, but can include dry skin, skin irritation, and skin burning. The medication is available as a generic and under two brand names: Epiduo and Epiduo Forte.

    Summary for Antiseptic

    Benzoyl peroxide is an affordable medication that works well to clear up acne. It's available over-the-counter and comes in many different forms, but it's not a good option for people with sensitive skin.

  • Indications of Epiduo vs. BenzeFoam

    Indications for
    •Acne in
    •People 9 years and older - Epiduo
    •People 12 years and older - Epiduo Forte
    Indications for
    •Acne

  • Pros and Cons of Epiduo vs. BenzeFoam

    Pros and Const for Retinoid / Topical antibiotic
    Pros
    •Combination of two medications in a single product
    •Only needs to be applied once a day
    •Easy to apply
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Can make your skin more sensitive to the sunlight
    •Can bleach clothing and bed sheets
    •Can make skin dry or irritated
    •Your skin might look worse before it starts looking better
    Pros and Const for Antiseptic
    Pros
    •Lower-cost and available over-the-counter
    •Comes in many different forms (e.g., gel, cream, and lotion) and strengths
    •Easy to apply
    •Can be used by people with either dry or oily skin
    Cons
    •Makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight
    •Can bleach your hair, clothing, and bedding
    •Might not work well for people with severe acne
    •Can cause uncomfortable side effects, like skin burning and itching
    •Not a good option for people with sensitive skin

  • Common Side Effects of Epiduo vs. BenzeFoam

    Common Side Effects for

    Epiduo:

    •Dry skin (7%)
    •Rash (3%)

    Epiduo Forte:

    •Skin irritation (4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Redness
    •Burning
    •Itching
    •Peeling
    •Swelling
    •Dryness

  • Warnings of Epiduo vs. BenzeFoam

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sunburn
    •Skin irritation
    Common Side Effects for
    •Bleaching of hair and clothing
    •Skin irritation
    •Sensitive skin

  • Prices with our coupons for Epiduo vs. BenzeFoam

    Learn more about Epiduo
    Learn more about Benzoyl peroxide

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