Acnecide Gel

Price range: £14.00 through £18.00

Acnecide 5% w/w Gel is a pharmacy-supplied topical acne treatment containing benzoyl peroxide. It kills bacteria, clears pores, and reduces inflammation for visibly clearer skin.Packaging and branding may vary.

1 Pharmacy Medicine Consultation

What Is Acnecide 5% Gel?

Acnecide 5% w/w Gel is a topical acne treatment for oily, blemish-prone skin. You can use it on the face. In addition, it can help on the chest and back.

It contains benzoyl peroxide 5%, which targets spots at the pore level. Therefore, it can help reduce breakouts and calm inflamed blemishes.

How Acnecide Works

Benzoyl peroxide releases oxygen in the pores. As a result, acne-causing bacteria cannot thrive.

At the same time, it helps loosen and remove dead skin cells. Consequently, pores block less easily, which can reduce blackheads and whiteheads over time.

What Results to Expect

Many people see an improvement with regular use. However, results take time.

For best results, use it consistently and follow the instructions. Typically, skin looks clearer over several weeks. In addition, breakouts often become less inflamed as treatment continues.

Why Choose Acnecide 5%?

Acnecide uses a clinically effective strength of benzoyl peroxide. Therefore, it offers a strong option for mild to moderate acne.

The gel texture spreads easily and absorbs quickly. As a result, it feels lighter on the skin and won’t add extra oil.

In addition, you can pair it with a gentle cleanser and a simple moisturiser. This helps support the skin barrier while treatment does its job.

How to Use

Start slowly, especially if your skin feels sensitive.

For example:

  • Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin

  • Begin once daily (or every other day), then increase if tolerated

  • Use a non-comedogenic moisturiser afterwards, if needed

Because benzoyl peroxide can irritate at first, gradual use often improves comfort.

Important Safety Information

Avoid contact with eyes, lips, inside the nose, and broken skin. In addition, wash your hands after applying.

Mild dryness, stinging, or redness can happen at first. However, stop and seek advice if you develop severe irritation, blistering, or marked swelling.

Use sunscreen in daytime. Therefore, your skin stays protected if it becomes more sun-sensitive.

Finally, benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics. So, let it dry fully before dressing, and use white towels if possible.

Product Notes

Strength: 5% w/w benzoyl peroxide gel.

This product may not suit very sensitive skin. Therefore, ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Directions

Always read and follow the patient information leaflet before use.

  • Apply to clean, dry skin once nightly for 3 days; increase to twice daily if tolerated

  • Use a thin layer on affected areas; avoid eyes, lips, and sensitive skin

  • Wash hands after application to avoid transfer

  • Start with lower frequency if skin is sensitive

  • Storage: store below 25 °C, away from heat and direct light; keep the tube tightly closed; discard any unused gel via pharmacy returns; ensure out of reach of children

Ingredients

  • Active Ingredient: Benzoyl Peroxide 5% w/w

  • Inactive Ingredients: Docusate sodium, disodium edetate, poloxamer 182, carbomer 940, propylene glycol, acrylates copolymer, glycerol, colloidal anhydrous silica, sodium hydroxide, purified water

Side Effects

Common side effects:

  • Skin dryness

  • Redness

  • Peeling

  • Stinging or burning sensation

Serious side effects:

  • Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty)

  • Unusual skin sores or persistent irritation

If you notice any symptoms, contact your GP or healthcare professional.

Warnings

  • Contraindications: Allergy to benzoyl peroxide or other ingredients

  • Cautions: Sensitive or very dry skin—test on a small area first

  • Age restriction: Not for under 12 without medical advice

  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare provider

  • Interactions: Avoid use with other acne treatments like retinoids or AHA/BHA at the same time—it may increase irritation

  • Avoid combining with other benzoyl peroxide or exfoliating products. You can use mild cleansers and moisturisers that don’t contain active acne-fighting ingredients.
  • As it is a topical gel, food intake doesn’t matter—but apply it to clean, dry skin at least 30 minutes after showering or washing.
  • Most users see a reduction in acne breakouts within 2 to 4 weeks, with visible improvement by six weeks of twice-daily use.
  • Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Current guidelines suggest low systemic absorption, but medical advice is recommended.
  • Yes, when used as directed. Begin with once-daily at night, then increase to twice daily if tolerated. Stop using it if severe irritation occurs.