The outcome may differ according to the extent of your acne and your type of skin. Nonetheless, most people begin noticing positive changes in their skin after 1 to 2 weeks of using Duac. Even though you don't see an immediate change, it is advisable to continue with the medication. In fact, it takes up to 4 to 6 weeks for optimal effects, and longer in severe cases. Consistent use is very essential in treating acne. 

Duac can generally be used in conjunction with other acne treatments, but you should not use it together with other products that contain benzoyl peroxide or other drying agents. Applying multiple treatments may cause irritation to the skin. Therefore, always seek advice from your doctor before combining Duac with other treatments like salicylic acid, topical retinoids, or oral antibiotics, so that you will know if you have an appropriate regimen that will not cause too much irritation. 

Benzoyl peroxide, the active ingredient in Duac, is considered drying and irritating, especially on sensitive skin. Sensitive skin can result in redness, peeling, or excessive dryness. When you have sensitive skin, be sure to use a small amount of the product to monitor how your skin reacts to it. You can also use a moisturiser with Duac to avoid over-drying. If irritation develops, stop using it and consult your doctor for other alternatives.  

Duac contains benzoyl peroxide, which is not absorbed into the bloodstream. However, it is still recommended to consult a doctor before using it during pregnancy. The safety of benzoyl peroxide during pregnancy has not been proven. If you are pregnant or nursing, your healthcare provider will assess your condition and recommend treatment for you. For mild to moderate acne, they may recommend topical treatments, which are considered safer with pregnancy.  

Yes, Duac can be applied to the face entirely, but only on parts of the body that are broken out with acne. Do not apply it to non-acneic skin as you may irritate the skin unnecessarily. Apply a thin layer to your breakouts but avoid sensitive parts such as your eyes, mouth, and broken skin. If in doubt, consult with your doctor as to how best to apply the Duac. 

Yes, when on the medicine Duac, it might sensitise the skin to sun; the combined application of antibiotic and benzoyl peroxide dry the skin so much. Try to have enough protection while being under medication Duac against exposure to sun radiations. Increased dryness is noticed upon such exposure that has irritated further the affected region of skin. Avoid too much sun exposure, especially during peak hours, and reapply sunscreen often. If your skin becomes very sensitive or irritated, talk to your doctor. 

No, Duac is meant for active acne by targeting bacteria and stopping pores from getting clogged with dead cells; it does not remove acne scars. If you are concerned about acne scars, your doctor might recommend other treatments such as scar creams, chemical peels, or laser therapy. Early and consistent treatment can actually reduce the chances of future scarring of acne.  

Duac is a treatment for short term acne and normally prescribed for few weeks to several months. But your doctor would monitor your condition and decide on the length of time to keep using the treatment product. 

Long-term use of Duac should be monitored by your doctor, as prolonged use of benzoyl peroxide can sometimes lead to skin irritation or resistance to the antibiotic component, clindamycin. Always follow your doctor's instructions and stop using the gel if they advise discontinuing it. 

Yes, you can apply makeup when you are on Duac, but non-comedogenic products should be used because these will not irritate the skin further. Many makeup products can clog pores and make the acne worse. Heavy foundations should be avoided and oil-free light options should be opted for. All makeup, dirt, and oils should be cleaned off at the end of the day to prevent any further breakouts.  

If Duac touches your eyes, immediately wash out your eyes with plenty of cool water. Keeping your eyes open, flush out as much product as possible for a few minutes. If redness or irritation continues even after flushing your eyes, report this to a healthcare provider. In the future, use Duac only carefully around the eyes and not in the areas of the face that may be sensitive. 

Yes, you can use it on your back, chest, or shoulders if you have those affected by acne.Just like in applying it on your face, you should make sure that it's only on the areas that are affected with acne and do not apply to the broken or irritated skin. Let the skin clean and dry first before applying the medication. 

If you have large areas of body acne, consult your doctor for the most effective treatment options, as more widespread treatment may be necessary. 

No, Duac cannot be used for rosacea since it can irritate or worsen the condition. Rosacea is a separate skin condition and needs specific treatment. If you have rosacea and acne, consult your doctor about a treatment plan that would work best for your skin. Metronidazole topical treatments might be recommended instead for rosacea.  

If your acne worsens after starting Duac, it could be a sign of irritation or an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients. In some cases, acne may temporarily worsen before improving as the treatment works to clear your skin. If the worsening persists or causes significant discomfort, stop using Duac and consult your doctor. Your doctor may suggest an alternative acne treatment or adjust your dosage.  

Duac is usually prescribed to patients aged 12 years and above. However, if your child is below 12 years and having acne, first consult a health care provider regarding the use of this medication. In children, for acne, physicians may prescribe more mild treatments of acne or some other treatment protocol that is suited for the sensitive skin of children.

While Duac is safe for most skin types, it does irritate those with dry or sensitive skin. Always begin with a small amount and see how your skin reacts. Using a gentle, non-irritating moisturiser will help counteract some of the dryness, and if the irritation is extreme, consult with your doctor on the best course of treatment for your skin type.