Acnecide Gel

Acnecide gel is an acne treatment which works by reducing the amount of bacteria on the skin. It also works by thinning the skin where it is applied, allowing the area to loosen and shed. It is a first-line treatment for mild acne and is effective in treating inflammatory acne (pustules and papules). It can also be used to treat whiteheads and blackhead.  

Acnecide gel contains the active ingredient benzoyl peroxide, which falls under the category of keratolytics. It works by breaking down keratin, a protein responsible for forming part of the structure of the skin. This action helps to break down acne. It also has antibacterial properties, which help to reduce the number of Propionibacterium acnes (the bacteria responsible for causing acne).

• Wash the desired area with water and a mild skin cleanser and then gently pat it dry
• Apply a thin layer of gel to the affected area once or twice a day. Avoid application to any areas of the skin which may be damaged.
• Wash your hands after application
• Avoid contact with your mouth, eyes and angles of the nose. If contact occurs, rinse the gel off thoroughly with water
• If you experience irritation, reduce the amount of gel and the frequency of use, and contact your pharmacist or GP. If irritation persists after reduction of use, consider using a non-alcoholic moisturiser after application.
• Excessive use of this product will not make it more effective, but will increase the likelihood of irritation to the skin

This treatment usually starts to work within 4 to 6 weeks but it can take slightly longer depending on the individual. If you do not see any improvement after 8 weeks, contact us for advice.

You can use a non-alcoholic moisturiser with this treatment, as benzoyl peroxide can dry your skin. Apply the non-alcoholic moisturiser, after acnecide has dried. Avoid oil-based moisturisers, as these can clog pores.

Keep the medication out of the sight and reach of children and do not store it in temperatures greater than 25°C. The tube should also be kept away from direct heat and sunlight.

You do not need a prescription for Acnecide gel; however, we do ask that all patients complete a short medical questionnaire. This will allow one of our pharmacists to gauge a full understanding of your situation and provide any medical advice where necessary.

Acnecide gel can be bought over the counter in high street retailers. If you choose to buy this over the counter, please ensure that you have been advised on the correct usage before purchase.

Acnecide can dry your skin as it contains benzoyl peroxide. If you are experiencing dryness or peeling, you should use a moisturiser which is free from oil and alcohol. If you are experiencing any irritation that is not drying or peeling, please discontinue the use of it immediately and contact your GP or pharmacist.

You should use acnecide once you make-up has been removed. Applying it before make-up can cause bacteria to spread to areas such as your mouth and the angles of your nose when applying makeup.

• You should not use acnecide gel if you are allergic to benzoyl peroxide or any of the other ingredients in this medicine which you are able to find here
• Do not apply to damaged skin
• Stop applying if it is causing swelling or blistering. If this is the case, please contact your GP or pharmacist
• Do not use with any other topical (treatment which you apply to the skin) acne treatment unless you have been instructed by your GP or pharmacist
• Do not use if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, unless your doctor has said it is safe to do so. If using while breastfeeding, do not apply to any areas which may cause exposure to the skin of your child

You should speak to your doctor or pharmacist about trying the next step in treating your acne. Epiduo is a cream that contains benzoyl peroxide with an added retinoid. Differin contains a retinoid and Duac contains both benzoyl peroxide and an antibiotic called clindamycin. All these acne treatments can be used if Acnecide fails to work. You should speak to your GP to discuss suitable alternatives. 

Side effects that may affect more than 1 in 10 people (Very common) include:

• Dry skin
• Redness of the skin
• Peeling skin
• A slight burning sensation of the skin

Side effects that may affect less than 1 in 10 people (Common) include:

• Itchy skin
• A painful sensation on the skin
• An irritating sensation on the skin

These side effects are often reversible by reducing frequency of use or stopping the treatment completely. Nonetheless, we suggest getting in touch with your pharmacist or GP if you are experiencing any of the above.

If these side effects are occurring at a more alarming rate, stop using this treatment immediately, and get in touch with your pharmacist or GP.