(dapsone) Gel, 7.5%
(dapsone) Gel, 7.5%
Product Description
Product overview
ACZONE (Dapsone) Gel, 7.5% by Almirall is a prescription-strength, once-daily topical treatment for acne vulgaris. Formulated with the sulfone antibiotic dapsone at a concentrated 7.5%, this aqueous gel delivers powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action to reduce inflammatory papules, pustules, and comedones. FDA-approved for patients aged 9 and older.
Anti-Inflammatory Sulfone
Dapsone works primarily by suppressing inflammation in acne lesions, reducing redness, swelling, and pain from papules and pustules.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAnti-Inflammatory Sulfone
Dapsone works primarily by suppressing inflammation in acne lesions, reducing redness, swelling, and pain from papules and pustules.
Antibacterial Action
Inhibits the growth of C. acnes (formerly P. acnes) bacteria on the skin, helping to prevent new breakouts from forming.
No Sun Sensitivity
Unlike retinoids and certain acids, dapsone gel does not increase photosensitivity, making it suitable for daytime use without extra sun precautions.
Convenient Once-Daily Dosing
The 7.5% concentration allows once-daily application (vs. twice daily for the 5% formulation), improving adherence and simplifying routines.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo controlled human studies. Animal studies at extremely high oral doses showed embryocidal effects. Systemic absorption from topical gel is very low (~1% of oral dose). Consult your physician before use during pregnancy.
Oral dapsone is excreted in breast milk. Topical absorption is minimal, but the manufacturer recommends consulting a doctor. Wash hands thoroughly before nursing.
Contains Polysorbate 80 and Isohexadecane, which can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with confirmed fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency may experience hemolytic anemia. Discuss with your doctor before use. Watch for dark urine, fatigue, or pale skin.
Applying benzoyl peroxide over Aczone may cause temporary yellow/orange discoloration of the skin and facial hair. Separate application times if using both.
Dapsone gel does not increase sensitivity to sunlight, making it safe for daytime application. Sunscreen is still recommended as part of a healthy routine.
Aqueous gel base is lightweight and unlikely to clog pores. Formulated without heavy oils or waxes.
This preservative is generally recognized as safe at cosmetic concentrations. Those with paraben sensitivities should patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSDapsone 7.5%Proven
A synthetic sulfone antibiotic with potent anti-inflammatory properties. Originally used to treat leprosy, it has been reformulated as a topical gel for acne. Works by reducing inflammation and inhibiting bacterial growth on the skin.
- Clinical Trial: Pooled Phase 3 data showed 29.8% achieved clear/almost clear skin vs. 21.1% vehicle (p<0.001) at 12 weeks.
- Inflammatory Lesions: 54.6% mean reduction in inflammatory lesions vs. 48.1% with vehicle.
- Speed of Action: Benefits seen as early as Week 2 for inflammatory lesion counts.
- Tolerability: Most side effects are mild — primarily dryness and itching at the application site.
Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether (Ethoxydiglycol)Solvent
A synthetic solvent (also known as DGME or Transcutol) that helps dissolve dapsone into a stable gel formulation and enhances penetration of the active ingredient into the skin.
- Function: Acts as the primary solvent for the gel vehicle, ensuring even distribution of dapsone particles.
- Penetration Enhancement: Helps deliver dapsone more effectively into the epidermis where acne bacteria reside.
Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate CopolymerStabilizer
A polymeric thickener and emulsion stabilizer that creates the gel texture and keeps the formula homogeneous. Provides a smooth, non-greasy feel upon application.
- Function: Gel-forming agent that provides the product with its characteristic texture and keeps dapsone particles suspended evenly.
MethylparabenPreservative
A widely used preservative that prevents microbial contamination and extends the shelf life of the product. Present at low concentrations within safe limits established by regulatory agencies.
- Safety: Considered safe at cosmetic concentrations by the FDA and CIR Expert Panel.
7 ingredients
Dapsone (7.5%), Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether, Methylparaben, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Isohexadecane, Polysorbate 80, Purified Water
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply once daily in the morning on clean, dry skin. Wait 1-2 minutes before layering moisturizer. If using benzoyl peroxide, apply at a different time of day to avoid yellow discoloration.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash your face with a mild, non-irritating cleanser. Pat skin dry with a clean towel. Do not scrub or exfoliate before applying.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Press the airless pump to dispense approximately a pea-sized amount of Aczone Gel. The gel may appear off-white to yellow with visible particles — this is normal.
Apply a Thin Layer
Spread a thin, even layer over the entire face (not just active breakouts). May also be applied to other affected areas like chest, upper back, and shoulders. Rub in gently and completely.
Wash Hands Thoroughly
Always wash your hands after application to avoid transferring gel to eyes, mouth, or other sensitive areas.
Follow Up with Moisturizer & SPF
Allow 1-2 minutes for absorption, then apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen. If no improvement after 12 weeks, consult your dermatologist.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
- You cannot tolerate retinoids or benzoyl peroxide
- You want a once-daily topical with minimal side effects
- You need a non-photosensitizing acne treatment for daytime
- You have adult hormonal acne (especially effective in women)
- You are aged 9 or older with acne vulgaris
- You want to combine with other acne treatments under supervision
Consider alternatives if:
- You have G6PD deficiency (risk of hemolytic anemia)
- You have congenital or idiopathic methemoglobinemia
- You are taking oral dapsone or antimalarial medications
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — contains Polysorbate 80
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You have primarily comedonal (non-inflammatory) acne
- Budget is a primary concern and insurance does not cover it
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight aqueous gel base absorbs quickly without adding oil or shine. Ideal for oily, acne-prone skin.
Non-greasy formula works well across different face zones. Apply evenly for balanced treatment of the T-zone and cheeks.
Works effectively for those with normal skin experiencing acne. May cause minor dryness; pair with a hydrating moisturizer.
Dryness is the most common side effect. A rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer is essential when using Aczone on dry skin.
Generally well tolerated with low irritation rates in clinical trials. Fragrance-free formula. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Specifically designed and FDA-approved for acne vulgaris. Low comedogenic rating. Targets both inflammation and acne bacteria.
Results timeline
WEEK 12Early Anti-Inflammatory Effect
Redness and swelling of existing inflammatory lesions begin to decrease. Some users notice less painful breakouts. Minor dryness or itching may occur as skin adjusts.
~20% noticed improvementVisible Lesion Reduction
Inflammatory papules and pustules noticeably decrease in number and severity. Skin texture starts to improve. New breakouts become less frequent.
~35% noticed improvementSignificant Clearing
Substantial reduction in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts. Skin appears clearer and calmer. Many users report increased confidence.
~50% noticed improvementFull Assessment Period
Clinical trials showed 29.8% of patients achieved clear or almost clear skin. 54.6% mean reduction in inflammatory lesions. If no improvement by this point, consult your dermatologist to reassess treatment.
~55% noticed significant improvementRatings by platform
427+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective anti-inflammatory action reduces painful, red breakouts
- Once-daily application is convenient and improves adherence
- Gentle on sensitive skin; does not cause peeling like retinoids
- No photosensitivity — safe for daytime use
- Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic gel formula
- Particularly effective for adult female hormonal acne
- Can be combined with retinoids and other treatments under supervision
- Generic version now available at significantly lower cost
Criticized
- Brand-name retail price is extremely high (~$628 for 60g)
- Moderate efficacy as monotherapy vs. retinoids or BPO combos
- Yellow/orange skin staining when combined with benzoyl peroxide
- Contains Polysorbate 80 — not fungal acne safe
- Gel can feel gritty with visible suspended particles
- Dryness and itching are common initial side effects
- Not available over the counter — requires prescription
- Risk of hemolysis for those with G6PD deficiency
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESIdentical active ingredient (dapsone 7.5%) in the same concentration. Bioequivalent to brand-name Aczone. Available with GoodRx coupons at a fraction of the brand price. Requires a prescription.
OTC retinoid that targets comedones and inflammation through a different mechanism. Higher efficacy for comedonal acne but causes photosensitivity and more irritation. Not a sulfone antibiotic like dapsone.
Widely available OTC antibacterial that kills C. acnes through oxidation. Higher efficacy for inflammatory acne but causes more dryness, peeling, and bleaches fabrics. Cannot be layered with Aczone without staining.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Epiduo Forte (Adapalene 0.3% + BPO 2.5%)
Aklief (Trifarotene 0.005%)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if product changes color significantly or if past the expiration date printed on packaging.
Store at controlled room temperature 20°C-25°C (68°F-77°F), with excursions permitted to 15°C-30°C (59°F-86°F). Protect from freezing. Return to original carton after use.
Airless pump with polypropylene bottle and high-density polyethylene piston. Available in 30g, 60g, and 90g sizes. Off-white to yellow gel with suspended particles.
Yes — the 30g size is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Airless pump design prevents leaking during air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQAczone is classified as pregnancy category C. There are no controlled human studies, but animal studies at very high oral doses showed embryocidal effects. However, systemic absorption from the topical gel is extremely low — about 1% of a 100mg oral dose. For breastfeeding, oral dapsone is excreted in breast milk and could potentially cause hemolytic reactions in infants, especially those with G6PD deficiency. While topical absorption is minimal, the manufacturer recommends consulting your healthcare provider before using Aczone during pregnancy or while nursing.
No, Aczone is not considered fungal acne safe. The formula contains Polysorbate 80 and Isohexadecane, which are known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast — the fungus responsible for pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne). If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider alternatives such as ketoconazole cream or a fungal-acne-safe topical treatment. Consult your dermatologist for appropriate options.
Aczone can generally be combined with retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) and other acne treatments under dermatologist supervision. It is commonly prescribed alongside retinoids for complementary action. For AHA/BHA acids and vitamin C, there are no specific contraindications, but introduce one product at a time to monitor skin tolerance. The major caution is with benzoyl peroxide — applying BPO over Aczone can cause temporary yellow/orange discoloration of the skin and facial hair. If using both, apply them at different times of day (e.g., Aczone in the morning, BPO at night).
Aczone works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its lightweight aqueous gel base absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. It is particularly well-suited for individuals with inflammatory acne (red, swollen papules and pustules) and has shown special efficacy in adult women with hormonal acne. Those with very dry skin may experience additional dryness and should pair with a richer moisturizer. Sensitive skin types generally tolerate it well due to its fragrance-free formula and low irritation profile.
Clinical trials show benefits can appear as early as Week 2 for inflammatory lesion reduction. Most users see noticeable improvement by Week 4 to Week 8. The full assessment period is 12 weeks — in pooled Phase 3 trials, 29.8% of patients achieved clear or almost clear skin at the 12-week mark, with a 54.6% mean reduction in inflammatory lesions. If you do not see improvement after 12 weeks of consistent use, consult your dermatologist to reassess your treatment plan.
Apply Aczone after cleansing and toning (if applicable), but before moisturizer and sunscreen. On clean, dry skin, apply a pea-sized amount as a thin layer to the entire face once daily. Wait 1-2 minutes for absorption before applying moisturizer and SPF. If using benzoyl peroxide, apply it at a separate time of day to avoid skin discoloration. Aczone is most commonly used in the morning due to its non-photosensitizing nature.
Aczone has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. The aqueous gel base is lightweight and formulated without heavy oils, waxes, or silicones that commonly clog pores. It is specifically designed for acne-prone skin. However, individual experiences may vary — some users have reported mild clogged pores, though this is uncommon. The formula is oil-free and non-comedogenic by design.
Aczone should be used within 12 months of opening. Store at room temperature (20°C-25°C / 68°F-77°F) and protect from freezing, as freezing can damage the gel formulation. The airless pump packaging helps protect the product from contamination and oxidation. Always check the expiration date printed on the packaging. A 60g pump typically lasts about 2-3 months with daily full-face application.
Verdict: ACZONE (Dapsone) Gel 7.5% by Almirall is a well-tolerated, FDA-approved prescription acne treatment that stands out for its anti-inflammatory approach and once-daily convenience. It excels for patients who cannot tolerate retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, and is particularly effective for adult women with hormonal acne. While its efficacy as monotherapy is moderate compared to retinoid/BPO combinations, its gentle side-effect profile, zero photosensitivity, and ability to combine with other treatments make it a valuable option in the dermatologist's toolkit. The main drawbacks are its high brand-name price (mitigated by generic availability and coupons) and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe due to Polysorbate 80. Best used as part of a multi-step acne regimen under professional guidance.
Product Overview
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.
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.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
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.
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
Notable Effects & Ingredients
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.
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!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
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.
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Dapsone
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ethoxydiglycol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Methylparaben
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer
Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isohexadecane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|