Epiduo Side Effects

Generic name: adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 2, 2025.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Epiduo Side Effects associated with adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Epiduo.

Applies to adapalene/benzoyl peroxide topical: topical application gel/jelly, topical application pad.

Serious side effects of Epiduo

Along with its needed effects, adapalene/benzoyl peroxide topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical:

More common side effects

• dryness and peeling of the skin
• flushing or redness of the skin
• unusually warm skin

Less common side effects

• blistering, burning, crusting, or flaking of the skin
• burning, itching, redness, skin rash, swelling, or soreness at the application site
• scaling, severe redness, or swelling of the skin

Incidence not known

• skin pain
• sunburn

Other side effects of Epiduo

Some side effects of adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Incidence not known

• burning, dry, or itching eyes
• change in the color of the treated skin
• discharge or excessive tearing
• redness, pain, or swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of the eyelid
• skin rash, encrusted, scaly, and oozing
• swelling of the face

For healthcare professionals

Applies to adapalene / benzoyl peroxide topical: topical gel.

General adverse events

The most commonly reported side effects include irritative contact dermatitis, burning sensation, and dry skin.^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Irritative contact dermatitis, dry skin/dryness, skin irritation, erythema, skin exfoliation/scaling
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Sunburn, pruritus, atopic dermatitis, eczema
• Frequency not reported: Skin pain/stinging pain
• Postmarketing reports: Allergic contract dermatitis, blisters/vesicles, skin discoloration, rash^[Ref]

Local

• Common (1% to 10%): Application site burning, application site irritation^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Burning sensation/skin burning sensation^[Ref]

Ocular

• Postmarketing reports: Eyelid edema, conjunctivitis^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Postmarketing reports: Throat tightness^[Ref]

Other

• Postmarketing reports: Swelling face^[Ref]

Further information

Epiduo side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer