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Aklief vs. Epiduo Gel

Are Aklief and Epiduo Gel the Same Thing?

Aklief (trifarotene) Cream and Epiduo (adapalene and benzoyl peroxide) Gel are indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris.

Aklief Cream may be used in patients 9 years of age and older.

Epiduo Gel may be used in patients who are at least 12 years old.

Aklief Cream and Epiduo Gel both contain a retinoid. Epiduo also contains an antibacterial medication that also has a mild drying effect.

Side effects of Aklief Cream and Epiduo Gel that are similar include application site reactions (such as irritation, itching, pain, redness, dryness, stinging/burning, discoloration, rash, swelling, and lesions) and worsening acne.

Side effects of Aklief Cream that are different from Epiduo Gel include sunburn and allergic dermatitis.

Aklief Cream may interact with other drugs.

Epiduo Gel may interact with other skin products that contain salicylic acid, sulfur, or resorcinol; and skin products that can cause irritation, such as harsh soaps or skin cleansers, hair coloring or permanent

chemicals, hair removers or waxes, or skin products with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime.

What Are Possible Side Effects of Aklief?

Common side effects of Aklief include:

  • application site reactions such as:
    • irritation,
    • itching,
    • pain,
    • redness,
    • dryness,
    • stinging/burning,
    • discoloration,
    • rash,
    • swelling, and
    • lesions
  • sunburn,
  • acne, and
  • allergic dermatitis

What Are Possible Side Effects of Epiduo Gel?

Common side effects of Epiduo Gel include:

  • skin redness,
  • dryness,
  • peeling,
  • mild burning,
  • stinging,
  • scaling,
  • swelling,
  • itching, or
  • worsening of acne during the first 4 weeks of using this product.

These side effects usually decrease with continued use of Epiduo Gel. A very serious allergic reaction to Epiduo is rare. Seek immediate medical attention if you have serious symptoms, including:

What Is Aklief?

Aklief (trifarotene) Cream is a retinoid indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in patients 9 years of age and older.

What Is Epiduo Gel?

Epiduo (adapalene and benzoyl peroxide) Gel is a combination of a medication similar to vitamin A and an antibacterial medication that also has a mild drying effect used to treat acne in people who are at least 12 years old.

 

What Drugs Interact With Aklief?

Aklief may interact with other drugs. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use.

What Drugs Interact With Epiduo Gel?

Epiduo may interact with other medicated skin products.

 

How Should Aklief Be Taken?

The dose of Aklief Cream is a thin layer applied to the affected areas of the face and/or trunk once a day, in the evening, on clean and dry skin.

How Should Epiduo Gel Be Taken?

Epiduo is for topical (for the skin) use only. Apply a thin film of Epiduo gel to affected areas once daily after washing. Use a pea-sized dose amount for each area of the face (e.g., forehead, chin, each cheek). Avoid the eyes, lips and mucous membranes.