What are combination acne treatments?

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

Topical acne products are often more effective when used together and this has led to the development of combination acne treatments. An advantage compared to using products individually is simplicity - rather than applying two separate products at different times, both active ingredients are applied at once.

There are multiple combination products available. In the United Kingdom, all combination topical acne treatments are prescription only. Some commonly prescribed treatments include the following:

Epiduo is a combination of adapalene (a type of topical retinoid also known as differin) and benzoyl peroxide. Adapalene prevents excess skin cell division which can block hair follicles. Benzyol peroxide reduces inflammation and helps to control skin bacteria.

Duac gel is a combination of clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide. Clindamycin is a topical antibiotic that both reduces bacterial load on the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Related Articles

• What topical treatments are available for acne?
• What are topical retinoids?
• What is benzoyl peroxide?
• How are antibiotics used to treat acne?

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, Mohs micrographic surgery, facial reconstructive surgery, laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, acne, rosacea and acne scarring. Since 2019, I have been passionate about sharing information online about dermatology and skin care. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John’s Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King’s College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer and skin cancer diagnostics, and I constantly aim to translate the latest findings into better patient care. You can learn more about my Research.

In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

How I can help

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at several well-appointed and conveniently located sites across central London:

• London Bridge Hospital: Conveniently situated within The Shard, next to London Bridge station.
• Skin55 Ltd: Located at 55 Harley Street, this beautiful Edwardian building houses one of the largest private dermatology facilities in the UK with a comprehensive laser suite.
• OneWelbeck: Located close to Bond Street underground station. Mohs surgery, lasers, and other skin surgeries are performed in the state-of-the-art surgical suite here.

A new consultation is £250, a follow up consultation is £220. For more information on fees, please visit Prices.