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Adapalene And Benzoyl Peroxide Gel 0.1%/2.5%

Adapalene And Benzoyl Peroxide Gel 0.1%/2.5%

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A prescription-strength dual-action acne gel combining adapalene 0.1% (a third-generation retinoid) with benzoyl peroxide 2.5% (an antimicrobial agent) to clear existing breakouts, prevent new blemishes, and reduce inflammation in one streamlined treatment. FDA-approved for acne vulgaris in patients 9 years and older.

Prescription Strength FDA-Approved Paraben-Free Silicone-Free Oil-Free Sulfate-Free No Antibiotic Resistance Dual-Action Formula
Pregnancy
No
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Type
Prescription Gel
Active 1
Adapalene 0.1%
Active 2
Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%
Sizes
15g / 45g / 60g
Usage
Once Daily (PM)
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Retinoid + Antimicrobial Synergy

Adapalene normalizes skin cell turnover and reduces inflammation while benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria without promoting antibiotic resistance.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Opaque Gel
Scent
Faint Medicinal
Absorption
1–2 Minutes
Finish
Matte

Retinoid + Antimicrobial Synergy

Adapalene normalizes skin cell turnover and reduces inflammation while benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria without promoting antibiotic resistance.

Targets All Acne Types

Effective against comedonal acne (blackheads, whiteheads) and inflammatory acne (papules, pustules) in a single once-daily application.

No Antibiotic Resistance

Unlike clindamycin-based treatments, benzoyl peroxide does not contribute to bacterial resistance, making it safe for long-term use.

Clinically Proven Efficacy

Clinical trials show 65% median reduction in inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions at 12 weeks and 80% reduction at 52 weeks of consistent use.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Not Pregnancy Safe

Contains adapalene, a retinoid. Retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects observed in animal studies at high doses. Discontinue use if you become pregnant.

Breastfeeding: Use with Caution

Systemic absorption is negligible, so it can be used during breastfeeding. However, do not apply to the chest area to avoid infant contact exposure.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains Polysorbate 80 and Sorbitan Oleate, which are known to feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended if you have pityrosporum folliculitis.

Low Comedogenic Risk (1/5)

Gel-based formula is oil-free and non-comedogenic. Unlikely to clog pores when used as directed.

Sun Sensitivity

Adapalene increases photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) is essential. Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning beds.

Bleaching Warning

Benzoyl peroxide can bleach hair, towels, bedsheets, and colored fabrics. Use white pillowcases and towels during treatment.

Initial Irritation is Normal

Erythema, scaling, dryness, and stinging are common during the first 2–4 weeks. These side effects typically subside with continued use. Start slowly and moisturize well.

Free From Harsh Additives

No parabens, sulfates, harsh alcohols, oils, or silicones. Minimal 13-ingredient formula designed for maximum efficacy with minimal irritants.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Adapalene 0.1%Proven

A third-generation synthetic retinoid (naphthoic acid derivative) that binds to specific retinoic acid nuclear receptors. Normalizes follicular epithelial cell differentiation, decreasing microcomedone formation and reducing the inflammatory component of acne.

  • Mechanism: Inhibits AP-1 factors and toll-like receptor 2 expression, reducing cell-mediated inflammation
  • Clinical Data: As effective as tretinoin for acne but with significantly better tolerability profile
  • Stability: More photostable than tretinoin, maintaining effectiveness when exposed to light
  • Approval: FDA-approved for acne treatment since 1996 as a standalone, and since 2008 in combination with benzoyl peroxide
Retinoid — contraindicated in pregnancy. Causes photosensitivity. Initial purging phase (weeks 2–6) is common and expected as the medication accelerates cell turnover.

Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%Proven

An oxidizing agent with potent bactericidal and keratolytic effects. Generates free radicals that oxidize proteins in the bacterial cell wall, specifically targeting Cutibacterium acnes without promoting antibiotic resistance.

  • Efficacy: 2.5% concentration is equally effective as 5% and 10% with significantly less irritation and dryness
  • Bacterial Action: Kills both antibiotic-sensitive and antibiotic-resistant C. acnes strains
  • Metabolism: Rapidly converted to benzoic acid in the skin and excreted through urine
  • AAD Guidelines: Ranked as a top-tier ingredient in the American Academy of Dermatology acne treatment guidelines
Can bleach hair, towels, and colored fabrics. May cause dryness and irritation in the first weeks. The 2.5% concentration minimizes these side effects compared to higher strengths.

Glycerin HumectantProven

A well-established humectant that draws moisture into the skin, helping to offset the drying effects of the active ingredients. Supports the skin barrier and improves overall hydration.

  • Function: Attracts and retains water in the upper skin layers, counterbalancing retinoid-induced dryness
  • Safety: Non-comedogenic and well-tolerated across all skin types
One of the most studied and trusted humectants in dermatology. Helps mitigate the drying effects of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide.

Propylene Glycol Solvent / HumectantProven

An organic alcohol that functions as a penetration enhancer, solvent, and mild humectant. Helps deliver the active ingredients deeper into the skin and extends product shelf life with antimicrobial properties.

  • Function: Enhances skin penetration of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide for improved efficacy
  • Safety: Generally well-tolerated, though individuals with very sensitive skin may experience mild irritation

13 ingredients

Adapalene, Benzoyl Peroxide, Carbon, Limonene, Sodium Anisate, Disodium EDTA, Glycerin, Poloxamer 182, Polysorbate 80, Propylene Glycol, Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Sorbitan Oleate

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates, Harsh Alcohols, Oils, Silicones, Fragrances (added), Phthalates, Formaldehyde, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, SLS/SLES, Dyes
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Gentle Cleanser
2
Pat Dry
3
This Product
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Apply once daily in the evening. Use a pea-sized amount for each area of the face. Do not combine with other retinoids, AHA/BHA exfoliants, or benzoyl peroxide products at the same time. Always apply sunscreen in the morning.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Gently

Wash the affected area with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser. Avoid soaps with alcohol, astringents, or exfoliating agents. Pat skin completely dry — wait at least 5 minutes before applying.

2

Apply a Pea-Sized Amount

Squeeze a pea-sized amount for each area of the face (forehead, each cheek, chin). Apply as a thin film with fingertips to the entire affected area, not just individual spots. Avoid eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.

3

Moisturize

After the gel absorbs (1–2 minutes), apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to help reduce dryness and irritation. For sensitive skin, apply moisturizer first ("buffering" method), let it dry, then apply the gel.

4

Sunscreen Every Morning

Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning without exception. Adapalene increases sun sensitivity. Wear protective clothing and a hat when sun exposure cannot be avoided.

5

Build Tolerance Gradually

Start by applying every other night for the first 2 weeks. If tolerated, increase to nightly use. If irritation is severe, reduce frequency or use the buffering method with moisturizer applied before the gel.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have mild to moderate acne vulgaris with blackheads, whiteheads, papules, and pustules
  • You want a prescription-strength, clinically proven acne treatment
  • You need a simplified routine — one product replaces separate retinoid and benzoyl peroxide steps
  • You've tried OTC adapalene (Differin) alone but need stronger results
  • You want long-term acne management without contributing to antibiotic resistance
  • You're looking for a generic alternative to brand-name Epiduo at a lower cost

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or not using contraception
  • You have severe nodular or cystic acne (may need oral medication like isotretinoin)
  • You have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) — this formula contains Polysorbate 80 and Sorbitan Oleate
  • You have eczema, severely irritated skin, or a damaged skin barrier
  • You are already using another retinoid (tretinoin, tazarotene) or strong exfoliants
  • You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Ideal match. Gel formula absorbs cleanly with no residue. Benzoyl peroxide helps reduce excess sebum. The matte finish won't add shine.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Works well across different zones. Apply to oily/acne-prone areas. Use a richer moisturizer on dry patches if needed.

Normal Skin
Good

Effective if acne is present. Pair with a hydrating moisturizer to maintain comfort. May cause mild dryness initially.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Expect increased dryness and flaking. Use the buffering method (moisturizer first). Apply every other night initially. A heavy-duty moisturizer is essential.

Sensitive Skin
Moderate

Higher risk of redness, burning, and stinging. Start very slowly (2x per week) and build up gradually. Buffer with moisturizer. Discontinue if severe irritation occurs.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

This is precisely what the product was designed for. Addresses both comedonal and inflammatory acne. Expect initial purging before improvement.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 6–12
Week 1–2

Adjustment Phase

Skin may feel dry, tight, and slightly irritated. Mild redness, stinging, and flaking are common as the skin acclimates to the retinoid and benzoyl peroxide. This is a normal response.

85% experience dryness/redness
Week 2–6

Purging Phase

Existing clogged pores are brought to the surface faster, which may temporarily worsen breakouts. New papules and pustules may appear in areas where you typically break out. This purging is a sign the medication is working.

60% experience purging
Week 4–8

Visible Improvement Begins

Inflammatory lesions start to decrease. Skin texture improves and pores begin to look smaller. Irritation side effects typically subside. Most users notice fewer new breakouts forming.

50% see noticeable improvement
Week 8–12

Significant Clearance

Clinical studies show a median 65% reduction in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts. Skin appears smoother and clearer. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation begins to fade.

65% median lesion reduction
Month 6–12

Optimal Long-Term Results

Continued use yields up to 80% reduction in lesion counts at 52 weeks. Skin texture is significantly refined and scarring fades. Maintenance therapy keeps acne under control long-term.

80% median lesion reduction at 1 year
09

Ratings by platform

1K+ REVIEWS
Drugs.com
7.3/10
Rating
947+
Reviews
Main complaint: Severe initial purging and dryness during the first 2–3 months before improvement
WebMD
3.7/5
Rating
191+
Reviews
Main complaint: Intense burning, redness, and peeling in the first weeks of treatment
Acne.org
4.0/5
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Purging phase lasting 1–3 months discourages many users from continuing
Clinical Studies
High
Efficacy
4,596+
Patients Studied
Key finding: Superior efficacy and tolerability vs. monotherapy with either active ingredient alone
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Dramatically clears acne when used consistently for 3+ months
  • Combines two gold-standard ingredients in one application
  • Does not promote antibiotic resistance unlike clindamycin combos
  • Lower concentration of BPO (2.5%) causes less irritation than 5–10% formulas
  • FDA-approved with extensive clinical trial data supporting efficacy
  • Once-daily application improves treatment adherence
  • Affordable generic alternative to brand-name Epiduo
  • Also helps fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation over time

Criticized

  • Significant purging phase discourages users (often 2–8 weeks)
  • Causes dryness, peeling, redness, and burning especially in early use
  • Bleaches towels, pillowcases, and colored clothing
  • Requires prescription in most countries
  • Not safe during pregnancy (retinoid component)
  • Increases sun sensitivity — mandatory daily sunscreen
  • Not suitable for fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 80)
  • Takes 8–12 weeks minimum to see meaningful improvement
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
70% Match
Adapalene Gel 0.1%
$13–$15
Budget Pick

Contains only adapalene 0.1% without benzoyl peroxide. Available over the counter. Best for comedonal acne (blackheads/whiteheads) but less effective on inflammatory acne. Fewer side effects and no bleaching risk.

60% Match
Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Maximum Strength
$9–$11
Budget Pick

OTC benzoyl peroxide wash at 4% strength. Provides the antibacterial benefit in a rinse-off format (less irritating than leave-on). No retinoid component, so lacks the cell-turnover and anti-aging benefits of adapalene.

65% Match
Effaclar Duo [+] SPF 30
$30–$36
Similar Concept

Non-prescription dual-action treatment with niacinamide, LHA, and piroctone olamine. Gentler formula without retinoid or BPO. Less potent for moderate acne but better tolerated by sensitive skin. No purging phase.

55% Match
Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
$5–$7
Budget Pick

OTC retinol (not adapalene) with weaker retinoid activity. No benzoyl peroxide. Gentler approach that may help with mild comedonal acne and skin texture, but not a clinical acne treatment. No prescription needed.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Epiduo
Active Ingredients Adapalene 0.1% + BPO 2.5%
Prescription Required Yes
Targets Comedonal + Inflammatory Acne
Antibiotic Resistance No Risk
Application Once daily (PM)
Pregnancy Safe No
Key Difference Same formula, much higher cost
Adapalene Gel 0.1%
Active Ingredients Adapalene 0.1% Only
Prescription Required No (OTC)
Targets Comedonal Acne Primarily
Antibiotic Resistance No Risk
Application Once daily (PM)
Pregnancy Safe No
Key Difference No BPO = less effective on inflammatory acne

Duac Gel (Clindamycin 1% + BPO 5%)

Active Ingredients Clindamycin 1% + BPO 5%
Prescription Required Yes
Targets Inflammatory Acne Primarily
Antibiotic Resistance Risk (contains antibiotic)
Application Once or twice daily
Pregnancy Safe No
Key Difference Antibiotic = resistance risk, not for long-term use
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze.

Packaging

Available in laminated tube (15g, 30g) or airless polypropylene pump bottle (30g, 45g, 60g) with snap-on cap for hygienic dispensing.

Travel Friendly

Yes — all sizes are under 100ml/3.4oz, compliant with TSA and international carry-on liquid regulations.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

No, this product is NOT safe during pregnancy. It contains adapalene, a retinoid, which is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects (birth defects observed in animal studies at high oral doses). If you become pregnant during treatment, discontinue use immediately and consult your doctor. For breastfeeding, the product can be used with caution — systemic absorption through the skin is negligible. However, avoid applying it to the chest area to prevent direct contact with the nursing infant.

No, this product is NOT considered fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 80 and Sorbitan Oleate, both of which are known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast — the organism responsible for pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne). While benzoyl peroxide itself has some antifungal properties, the emulsifier ingredients in this formulation may counteract that benefit. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider using a standalone benzoyl peroxide product with a fungal-acne-safe ingredient list instead.

Do not use other retinoids (tretinoin, retinol, tazarotene) at the same time — this will cause excessive irritation. Avoid using AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid) concurrently, especially in the first 3 months, as they significantly increase dryness and peeling. Vitamin C serums (L-ascorbic acid) may be used in the morning when this product is applied at night, but monitor for irritation. Always introduce one active at a time and wait for your skin to fully adjust before adding another.

This product works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The gel formula is oil-free and has a matte finish, making it especially comfortable for oily skin. Dry and sensitive skin types can still use it, but will need to build tolerance gradually, buffer with moisturizer, and use it less frequently. The key is having active acne (comedonal and/or inflammatory) — this is a targeted acne treatment, not a general skincare product.

Most users begin to see noticeable improvement at 4–8 weeks, with significant clearance by 8–12 weeks. However, a purging phase is very common in weeks 2–6, where acne temporarily worsens before improving. Clinical trials show a median 65% reduction in lesion counts at 12 weeks. Do not give up during the purging phase — this is a sign the medication is working by bringing existing clogged pores to the surface faster. Full long-term results (up to 80% clearance) may take 6–12 months of consistent use.

Apply it in the evening after cleansing and before moisturizer. The routine order is: (1) gentle cleanser, (2) pat dry and wait 5 minutes, (3) apply this product as a thin layer, (4) wait 1–2 minutes, (5) apply non-comedogenic moisturizer. In the morning, skip this product entirely and use a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. For sensitive skin, you can try the "buffering" method: apply moisturizer first, let it dry, then apply the gel on top.

No, this product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The gel-based formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and designed specifically for acne-prone skin. In fact, adapalene actively helps prevent clogged pores by normalizing the shedding of skin cells inside follicles, while benzoyl peroxide helps clear existing blockages through its keratolytic action. The temporary "purging" some users experience is not clogging — it's the product accelerating turnover of pre-existing microcomedones.

The product has a shelf life of approximately 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Store it at room temperature (68–77°F / 20–25°C) and keep it away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze. If using the pump bottle format, the airless design helps prevent contamination and extends product integrity. Discard the product if its color, consistency, or smell changes noticeably. Check the expiration date printed on the packaging before use.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Encube's Adapalene and Benzoyl Peroxide Gel 0.1%/2.5% is a clinically proven, FDA-approved acne treatment that combines two gold-standard active ingredients in a single once-daily application. As a generic equivalent of Epiduo, it delivers the same prescription-strength formula at a more accessible price point. The dual-action approach effectively targets both comedonal and inflammatory acne without promoting antibiotic resistance — a significant advantage for long-term use. The main trade-offs are a challenging adjustment period (dryness, purging, irritation in the first 4–8 weeks), mandatory sunscreen use, and unsuitability for pregnancy or fungal acne. If you can commit to consistent use through the initial phase, the clinical evidence strongly supports meaningful, lasting acne clearance.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Adapalene
brightening Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Adapalene Glycerin
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Adapalene Benzoyl Peroxide
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
1 1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
46% 30% 23%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 13 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
0 Unknown
Adapalene
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
3 Unknown
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
ache Ache-fighting
0 Unknown
Carbon
6 Unknown
Limonene
Deodorant, Perfuming, Solvent
1 Unknown
Sodium Anisate
Antimicrobial, Flavoring Agent
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS