Adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical and Burning: What Users Say (Page 4)

• EIM...
• October 2, 2019

For Acne "I am a 24-year-old female who has suffered with mild to moderate hormonal acne for the past 10 years and comedonal acne for a good 5 years that, up to recently, was only getting worse. Just under 4 weeks ago, I went to a dermatologist for the first time, who recommended I try the Dretine birth control pill (also known as Yasmin) combined with Epiduo as the external treatment. For the first week, I had no burning, peeling, or really any symptoms, and my skin didn't really change. During week 2, my skin got significantly worse, with more cystic deep spots than I would normally have and my closed comedones coming to the surface even more. By the end of week 3, the burning sensation really started to kick in, and it was beyond itchy after every application for a good hour after. I am now coming to the end of week 4, and although the burning is still very much present and the dryness and peeling around my mouth has finally gotten noticeable, my skin is looking DRAMATICALLY better!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 11, 2014

For Acne "I saw results with this product within three days! I had really bad acne on my chin and forehead, and it is already almost cleared up, and it's only been about a month. I didn't get any redness, however, after I apply it at night, it burns a little bit. Nothing too extreme. It also makes my skin on my chin flaky, but not on my forehead. I would not recommend stopping the use of this product if you just have a mild burning sensation afterwards because it really does work. I am so happy that I found this cream, and a little really does go a long way. I only use a pea-sized amount on my entire face, and the tube it comes in lasts a little over a month."

• Lbl...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 19, 2014

For Acne "I've been using Epiduo for a couple of months now. It's cleared my skin completely, I couldn't be happier! In the first week, I had red spotting on my face and tingling when applied, but whatever you do, don't overdo it, use a pea size and use it on only the affected areas! People that write negative comments about the burning and the irritation, read the instructions, it does inform you that they are common side effects! It strips your skin (due to the dry skin and flaking), and as for the people that are breaking out on it, don't lose hope, gels like Epiduo will bring up the bad stuff only to make it better. As for the people asking if it bleaches, just make sure it's massaged in and dry, because you go putting your head on your pillow."

• now...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 28, 2021

For Acne "Due to the constant wearing of a mask, this triggered my acne-prone skin to become more textured with cystic ones on both cheeks. My dermatologist prescribed Epiduo Gel. I was not prepared for the purge nor the burning sensation. I have never seen my skin this worse. I had huge, red, cystic ones in clusters on both cheeks. I was getting discouraged but then realized, if I cease using it now, what other medication is there to clear this? So I soldiered on and trusted the process. Weeks 3-5 were the highlight of the purge. By Week 8, it started to dry up, and by Week 10, all I had were the red scars. It's not easy, if you plan on using this (especially if you have moderate to severe acne), make sure you have a bat cave to hide in for the first few weeks. It's more than 3 months of me using Epiduo, and I still feel a tingling sensation when applied. The scars are slowly fading, and I have occasional breakouts (when it's the time of the month). So for those struggling, it's worth the try, you'll see light at the end too!"

• Ejg...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 16, 2014

For Acne "I have had bad spots for a couple of years now, seemed to get worse the older I get, but isn't quite acne. Went to the doctor, was prescribed Epiduo. Have been using for 4 days now, and I'd say my spots have reduced by around 50% already! I have really dry, sensitive skin already, so was a little worried about the reviews stating burning/redness. There is a slight tingly feeling, but nothing unbearable, and only had redness for the first 2 days. I've used loads of face washes and creams over the counter, but nothing had ever worked so quickly and effectively on my skin. So impressed with this and would definitely recommend for anyone feeling insecure about their skin like I was."

• Diz...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• October 2, 2019

For Acne "This is the only product that works on my face. I have used it for several years, and you do not have to use it every day! When I did that, that’s when my face started to burn and get red, so I changed to every other day to every 3 days, only at night, after I moisturized! Keep skin hydrated, and if you notice your face is burning really bad and peeling, spread out your usage of it. It did the same thing to my son, so we spread it out, and it worked great without getting all those irritations."

• Rac...
• August 27, 2014

For Acne "I've been using this for about a week, but so far, my skin seems to be peeling off and burning. However, it is calming down my acne, and hopefully, these side effects will go the more I use it. I am entitled to it free because I live in the UK."

• acn...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 30, 2016

For Acne "Have been on it for about 4 weeks and have certainly noticed a difference in my skin. The first couple of weeks were pretty uncomfortable, but getting a no-alcohol moisturizer certainly helped with the burning sensation. For the first week, I looked like I had a bad sunburn, and my skin is still peeling a bit, but not nearly as badly. Side effects calm down, and so does your acne! Just stick with it."

• mim...
• November 15, 2012

For Acne "I remember being horrified by looking at myself in the mirror. Crying nonstop, but ever since I started using Epiduo, my confidence is back. I haven't been this happy in months, and Epiduo really did the trick for my skin. It may have burned at first and peeled a lot, but my face is a lot clearer, and I recommend it to everyone with acne problems!"

• Cin...
• February 20, 2013

For Acne "I was having severe acne on my cheeks and had to see a dermatologist. The following was my treatment plan: Aczone cream in the morning and Epiduo at night. I was also given Doryx pills to take in the morning. My skin immediately started to get very dry, but I used Cetaphil moisturizer. I also used Cetaphil foam face wash twice a day. I only had some very slight burning the first two weeks. My acne was so bad I wanted to cry and hide my face from everyone, but my doctor's treatment plan worked great, and I am so happy."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• March 13, 2013

For Acne "I am 19 years old and have been fighting acne for about 4 years now. I have tried just about all over-the-counter acne washes, creams, you name it, I've tried it. Most did not work, and the few that did work gave me an allergic reaction. I had stubborn acne that wouldn't go away and was on the verge of giving up. My dad took me to the dermatologist 3/07/13, and the next day (03/08/13) I began using Epiduo gel at night with Doryx. It is now 03/13/13, and I LOVE the visible results! My complexion looks amazing compared to what it was. I still have some acne left and some scars. However, my face is really dry and rough. I also have severe burning! Feels like my face is on fire, and all I want to do is cry from the pain!"

• Ned...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 31, 2024

For Acne "It is almost 1 year since I got acne on my face. Firstly, it was only on my forehead, later, it spread to my chin and cheek and developed severe acne. I used Deriva CMS gel 0.1% adapalene alone on my face for almost 6 months, hoping that it would cure my skin, but it did not. Now my doctor prescribed Epiduo gel along with AHA Glow face wash and Clear gel. Now I am using Epiduo gel for almost 6 weeks. I don't see any visible results after 6 weeks. My acne keeps coming like I'm not using any medicine. I have dry, flaky, burning skin, and it's itching like hell every time I use this medicine, even after 6 weeks. I thought of giving up this many times. But after coming across many positive reviews, I feel to continue this and wait for 4 months, still hoping for results."

• Jan...
• June 6, 2019

For Acne "I have never had a problem with my skin while I was growing up until I got to the age of 21. Then I came out covered in spots on my chin and forehead area, really bad! I tried everything, all good brands, none worked. I got facials, which made them worse. I got a TC peel on my chin, which ruined my skin, don’t do it - it took layers of my face off! I am now 22, tried Epiduo gel, which burns my face a lot and makes it red and peel! I have been on this cream for over 10 weeks, and I have really started to see a difference only in the last 3 weeks. My face has really cleared up, the side effects aren't the best, but I can live with it as long as I am getting my clear skin back. I still have the odd spot coming through, but nothing like it was. Moisturizing isn’t the best as I had to stop the peeling, but it’s burning when I do it. I use Kiehl’s products, which are really good, but I have seen reviews that people are using Cetaphil while on this cream, so I am gonna give that a go and see how I get on."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• March 21, 2017

For Acne "I have mild redness and swelling of pimples and scarring due to stress that I just could not clear up with over-the-counter products. I decided to go to a dermatologist, and they prescribed me Epiduo (cream) and Minocycline (a pill) to help with the inflammation. I do have sensitive skin, and each day I use it, it does burn when I put it on and leaves my face red and very dry! But.....I already see an improvement in my skin! They did say to use Epiduo gel every OTHER day if the redness and dryness continue. I am also using CeraVe lotion afterwards to moisturize (their recommendation), and it does not leave an oily residue like others I have tried, and it truly is a great lightweight lotion! I have faith in this acne product! Keep using it! :)"

• Iss...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 17, 2016

For Acne "2 months ago I refused to be seen without makeup on in front of my family and friends in my OWN home. I was at a loss and had visited the doctors on numerous occasions to try and sort it. I had been on everything from creams to antibiotics, and Epiduo was my last option, then I'd be referred to a specialist. Initially, I hated the stuff. It burned my face like really, really bad sunburn, and I was constantly red, but I persisted. Now, 2 months later, I walked through Birmingham Grand Central on a busy day with not a scratch of makeup on and felt completely comfortable with my skin! My friends asked if I had makeup on and were so shocked when I said no! I still have a few acne scars, but they are dying down as the months go by. It's great."

• Lea...
• July 31, 2014

For Acne "I've never had acne as a teen, my skin was usually oily, but nothing a little oil control toner couldn't fix. I had pretty clear skin. I'm 25 years old and have had my first baby, and that's when it started. I could not believe how I broke out with severe acne. I tried a lot of over-the-counter acne washes, but nothing worked. I went to a dermatologist who prescribed me two pill medications and acne night gel. It didn't work. I went to my family physician, and she prescribed me Epiduo, thank God. It worked right away after a week of using it only at night after washing my face with Cetaphil. I've had clear skin, a little burning after a week and peeling, but it sure was worth it. I love this stuff. Acne free. Thank you."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 22, 2016

For Acne "I am in week 2 of Epiduo. I noticed that I'm getting a lot of pimples around my forehead area. I don't understand why, because my forehead didn't have any pimples before I started using Epiduo. Hopefully, it will improve because I'm really insecure. I feel like when I talk to others, that's all they look at! Anyways, Epiduo burns really bad and I have dry patches of skin. Whenever I touch it, it starts burning."

• Kur...
• February 19, 2014

For Acne "I'm 29 and suffered from small acne spots that broke out to big... and I do mean big... pimples on my forehead. Tried everything off the counter to get rid of it. When I plucked up the courage to go to a doctor, he prescribed 3 things to me: - Dalacin T (Day & Night) - Epiduo (Night) - Physiogel AI Cream (Night). He did stress that the Epiduo will burn for a couple of weeks before I got used to it, and the Physiogel was to counter the effects a little. After 3 weeks, it started clearing a bit, and now after nearly a year, my skin is clear! What I suggest before using this product is to ask a dermatologist for their point of view. There is a chance that this might not be the medication for you, so they can prescribe you something else."

• kay...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 29, 2019

For Acne "I have been using Epiduo for about 2 weeks now. My skin has gotten a lot worse than what it was. It peels 24/7, and it’s red all the time. Moisturizer burns, and so does washing my face with water. I can barely wear makeup because after a while of wearing some, my skin starts to peel, and it looks like a disaster. This is the worst experience I’ve gone through so far with my face. I’m going to try to keep using it for another two weeks. Hopefully, it starts working."

• lau...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 3, 2016

For Acne "I've been using Epiduo for just under a week now. I've suffered with acne for as long as I can remember. On the first night, I saw a significant difference, and my skin improved quite a bit. The second night, my skin burned majorly after putting on the cream, but I left it on because I'd read this was normal, and the next day my face just looked like it had been sunburned. I switched face washes too - Cetaphil, as it's non-comedogenic. This soothed my skin a lot. I've used it the same way every night, and so far my skin is just breaking out more, but I'm hoping if I stay persistent, it will clear. I've read this is the 'purging' stage! I will write another review when it's been 8-12 weeks."

• jul...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 21, 2016

For Acne "This stuff is so good! Wow-at first, my face was so dry, red, itchy, and burning that I could hardly wash it and spent days inside with ice and aloe vera on my face. But when I pulled through, all the tiny under-the-skin spots had completely disappeared, making a flawless complexion! Now I just use a tiny bit on my clear skin once every two days where I break out and get redness, as I am extremely acne-prone. Don't give up! It's so worth it when you get the results!"

• --c...
• May 28, 2013

For Acne "I've been using it for 5 days. I think it's a VERY strong medication. It hurts, it burns, and it's really irritating. It has made my pores very small, my pimples are almost gone, but I called my dermatologist because of how it was feeling, and she told me if it starts to feel very irritating, only use it once in a while. But the irritation seems to be going down, but it's still RED!"

• Ema...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 15, 2019

For Acne "I developed moderate jawline acne at the beginning of this year after three rounds of Roaccutane through my teens. The pimples were angry and painful. I tried over-the-counter creams with no relief, and they continued to get worse and worse. I went back to the dermatologist, who said I couldn’t go back on Roaccutane and prescribed me Epiduo cream and doxycycline for flare-ups. It took around a month to start seeing results, but the pimples became smaller and less angry. I’m 8 weeks down the track now, and my skin is practically clear, with some deep blackheads still making their way to the surface. The cream did cause my face to burn and feel really uncomfortable for the first few weeks, though I eventually got used to it, and the results are worth it! I do burn incredibly easily on my face if I go in the sun at the moment, and by accident, I got it on my neck one night, which was agony (avoid the neck lol). But overall, I’m so, so happy I tried this medication."

• hel...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• January 20, 2016

For Acne "My daughter has been on Epiduo since 8th grade (12), and she is still on it now in junior year (16), and it really does work wonders. Her skin is completely pimple-free, with the occasional 1 or 2 pimples here and there. This product really does work. The only problem is the occasional burning, flaking, and dry sensation. They started about one year after taking the product, although it does vary depending on your skin type. For all the people suffering from this, I suggest first completely washing your face, then applying a gentle cleanser like Cetaphil. After, apply a very thin layer of Vaseline on your face (trust me, it works), then apply the Epiduo with a pea-sized amount. IT WON'T FEEL LIKE BURNING OR FLAKING."

• Kat...
• August 19, 2018

For Acne "I started using Epiduo Forte almost 8 weeks ago. I used as prescribed (slowly increasing use over time). For the two weeks or so, my skin purged and got worse (more pimples in the areas that normally broke out), but at about that 3-4 week mark, I started to really see a difference in my skin and got super excited. But now, for the past two weeks, my skin is pretty much right back to how it was before I started. Not terrible, but definitely not good, perhaps maybe even worse than before. I’m not sure what I may have done wrong, but if this is how my skin will continue to look using this, I’m going to stop. Also, this medication is extremely drying (especially around the mouth area) and causes your skin to flake and sometimes itch and slightly burn. I’m disappointed, but hoping to give it two more weeks before throwing it in the trash."