Acnecide Face 5% Gel 15g – Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment

Description

Acnecide Face 5% w/w Gel is a leave-on benzoyl peroxide gel for the treatment of mild acne on the face where blackheads and whiteheads predominate. For adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over, 15g tube, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Active ingredient	Benzoyl peroxide 5% w/w
Format	Leave-on gel for the face
Use	Topical treatment of mild acne affecting the face, when comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) predominate
Age	Adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over
Dose	Thin layer once daily before bed to start; after 2–3 days, if well tolerated, twice daily (morning and evening)
Review	Stop and seek medical advice if the skin gets worse, or if there is no response after 12 weeks
Pack	15g tube

Who it is for

Adults and teenagers from 12 years with mild facial acne that is mostly blackheads and whiteheads
People who want a leave-on spot treatment rather than a wash-off product

Not suitable for: Children under 12 years. Anyone allergic to benzoyl peroxide or any of the other ingredients. Not for moderate or severe acne – speak to a pharmacist or doctor. Do not use other peeling, irritant or drying acne products at the same time unless a doctor advises. Use in pregnancy only under medical supervision; if breastfeeding, do not apply to the chest.

How to use

Read the label and Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use.
Wash the face with a mild cleanser and water, then pat dry.
Apply a thin layer to the acne-affected areas once daily before bed for the first 2–3 days.
If your skin tolerates it, increase to twice daily, morning and evening. If you have sensitive skin, stay on once daily at bedtime.
If dryness or peeling is troublesome, reduce how often you apply it and use a non-comedogenic moisturiser.
Stop and seek medical advice if your acne gets worse, or if it has not improved after 12 weeks.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I apply Acnecide Face Gel?

Once daily before bed for the first 2 to 3 days. If your skin tolerates it, increase to twice daily, morning and evening. People with sensitive skin should keep to once daily at bedtime.

Is some stinging or peeling normal?

Mild burning, redness and peeling are common when you first start and usually settle. If irritation is severe, stop using it; you can restart at a lower frequency once the skin has recovered.

Will it bleach my clothes or hair?

It can. Benzoyl peroxide bleaches hair and dyed fabrics, including towels and pillowcases. Let it dry before touching coloured material and wash your hands after applying.

Can I go in the sun while using it?

The gel can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid sunlamps and strong sun, and use a sunscreen on treated areas.

Can I use it with other acne products?

Do not combine it with other peeling, irritant or drying acne treatments unless a doctor tells you to. Use either the leave-on gel or a benzoyl peroxide wash, not both at once. Ask a pharmacist if you are unsure.

How long before I see results?

Improvement usually takes several weeks of regular use. If your skin is no better after 12 weeks, or gets worse, stop and seek medical advice.

Safety and storage

For external use only. Avoid the eyes, mouth, angles of the nose and other mucous membranes.
Avoid strong sunlight and do not use sunlamps while treating your skin.
May bleach hair, clothing and bedding.
Do not store above 25°C. Do not freeze.
Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Read the PIL. Report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.