La Roche‑Posay Effaclar Duo+ M is a triple-corrective, oil‑free moisturiser and acne treatment designed for oily, acne-prone skin. It features 0.5% salicylic acid with LHA, niacinamide (2.3–2.8%), zinc PCA, and microbiome-targeted PhyloBioma, offering rapid relief of blemishes, blackheads, and post-acne marks.

La Roche‑Posay Effaclar Duo+ M is a lightweight, non‑comedogenic gel-cream with salicylic acid and niacinamide that clears acne, unclogs pores, reduces oiliness, and fades post‑acne marks, with visible results in 8 hours.

Active & Key Ingredients
Ingredient Conc. Function
Salicylic Acid + LHA 0.5% Keratolytic exfoliant; penetrates pores to clear clogging

Niacinamide 2.3–2.8% Anti‑inflammatory, reduces sebum, brightens skin tone
Zinc PCA — Sebum-regulator, anti-bacterial
PhyloBioma — Targets C. acnes IA1 phylotype and microbiome balance
Procerad™ — Ceramide complex that prevents post-acne marks
Mannose — Supports hydration and regeneration
Glycerin, Dimethicone etc. — Maintains hydration and skin barrier
Aqua Posae Filiformis — Soothing postbiotic derived from thermal spring water

Exfoliates & Unclogs Pores: Salicylic acid and LHA penetrate and remove blockages.

Reduces Sebum & Inflammation: Niacinamide and zinc PCA help normalize oil production and calm skin.

Supports Skin Healing: PhyloBioma and Procerad™ act on acne bacteria and fading marks.

Hydrates without clogging: Lightweight gel-cream formulation with humectants and occlusives.

Uses & Indications
Treatment of acne blemishes (blackheads, whiteheads, inflammatory spots)

Post-acne marks reduction

Sebum control for oily skin

Suitable for use on face, chest, and back

Approved for adolescents aged 10+ and adults

Dosage & Administration
Frequency: Apply twice daily, morning and evening on cleansed skin.

Coverage: Apply throughout affected area; avoid eye contours.

Pairing: Use after cleanser; optional to follow with SPF (AM) or calming agent (PM).

Duration: Visible results in 8 hours; full effects on spots and marks within 4 weeks.

Safety & Side Effects
Formulated to be hypoallergenic, paraben-free, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, oil-free, and tested on sensitive skin
laroche-posay.ca

Common effects: Mild dryness or tingling may occur initially due to exfoliants

Contact dermatitis possible; discontinue if irritation worsens

Recall notice: Effaclar Duo (benzoyl peroxide spot treat.) recall due to benzene contamination; current Duo+ M with salicylic acid is unaffected

Warnings & Precautions
External use only

Avoid contact with eyes, mucosa, and broken skin

Use sunscreen and limit sun exposure due to exfoliating acids

Patch test recommended for sensitive skin

Do not use with other potent topical acne therapies simultaneously to avoid irritation
dailymed.nlm.nih.gov

Drug Classification
OTC cosmeceutical; not a prescription medication

Classified as anti-acne topical treatment

Drug Interactions
Minimal systemic absorption implies very low risk

Avoid using with other strong topical retinoids or acids simultaneously to prevent excessive dryness

Clinical Data & Evidence
Consumer study (n=87): 93% reported more comfortable skin after 8 hours; improvement in blemishes over 28 days

Cosmeto-clinical analysis: 66% fewer blackheads, 44% fewer pimples, 45% marks after 4 weeks
chemistwarehouse.co.nz

Phase IV observational trial (ongoing) investigating facial and trunk acne improvement over 6 months
centerwatch.com

FAQ (Q&A Format)
Q: How soon can I expect improvements?
A: Consumers saw visibly reduced blemish size and redness in 8 hours, with significant results within 4 weeks of consistent use.

Q: Can Effaclar Duo+ M be used under SPF?
A: Yes. Its lightweight texture makes it ideal as a base under sunscreen without clogging pores.

Q: Is it safe for sensitive skin?
A: Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic; suitable for sensitive and teenage skin (≥10 years).

Q: Can this replace prescription retinoids?
A: It’s a complement to, not a replacement for, prescription acne medications. Use as part of a broader routine under guidance.

Q: What if I experience dryness or peeling?
A: Reduce use to once nightly or alternate days until skin adjusts, then gradually resume twice daily.

SEO Keywords
La Roche‑Posay Effaclar Duo M 40 ml, salicylic acid acne moisturiser, triple corrective gel cream, oily acne-prone skin treatment, post-acne marks gel, microbiome skincare, acne treatment EZ Chemist