Explore EPSOLAY cream

Learn more about how EPSOLAY cream works and how to apply EPSOLAY cream.

How to apply

A one-of-a-kind topical treatment

EPSOLAY cream uses benzoyl peroxide (BPO) for sensitive skin, a breakthrough treatment option specifically for rosacea skin like yours.1,2

Epsolay packaging and bottle

The difference is in the delivery

EPSOLAY cream is the first topical treatment to combine BPO with innovative microencapsulation technology to treat the bumps and blemishes of rosacea.1,2

Why BPO?

BPO, the active ingredient in EPSOLAY cream, is an effective antibacterial ingredient that has been used in other products to treat skin conditions such as acne. However, it may cause skin irritation when applied to sensitive rosacea-prone skin — but microencapsulation technology allows for rosacea relief with enhanced tolerability.1,2 

What does microencapsulation do?

The microencapsulation technology in EPSOLAY cream controls the release of BPO on the skin, allowing for rosacea relief in a tolerable way.1,2

Patients noticed clearer skin in as little as two weeks in a clinical study looking primarily at BPO efficacy for inflammatory rosacea lesions over 12 weeks.2

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How to apply EPSOLAY cream

4 steps that can lead to rosacea relief

EPSOLAY cream’s microencapsulated BPO is designed to be delicate on skin, so you can apply it every day as prescribed, either in the morning or evening.1

1. Cleanse

Use a mild cleanser, gently rinse your face with water, and pat completely dry with a soft towel.1

2. Apply EPSOLAY cream

Lightly massage a pea-sized amount of EPSOLAY cream onto each area of your face — forehead, chin, nose, and cheeks — for a total of four pea-sized amounts of product per application.

Avoid your eyes, lips, and mouth, and let your face dry.1 Wash your hands after applying since the cream can stain or bleach fabric.1

3. Moisturize

After your EPSOLAY cream has dried, use a gentle moisturizer.1

4. Protect

Be sure to use a daily sunscreen to protect your skin, especially if you decide to use EPSOLAY cream as part of your morning routine.1

Tips for using EPSOLAY cream

  • Store your EPSOLAY cream at room temperature (68º–77ºF).
  • The first time you use EPSOLAY cream, press the pump down until the first drop of cream is dispensed.
  • Since EPSOLAY cream can make your skin more sensitive to light, limit your time in sunlight or artificial light.
  • Discard any unused EPSOLAY cream 60 days after your first use or by the expiration date on the bottle, whichever comes first.
  • Be sure to refill your EPSOLAY cream on time so you can continue your treatment after finishing a bottle.

Not an actual patient.

Woman with rosacea smiling

Stick with lifestyle best practices for rosacea relief while using EPSOLAY cream:

  • Know (and avoid) your rosacea flare-up triggers, which might include sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, extreme temperatures, stress, and exercise.1,3
  • Moisturize and protect your sensitive skin. A gentle, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher may help fight everyday rosacea triggers.1
  • Choose the right skincare products. Look for gentle products that are oil-free, scent-free, and alcohol-free. Be sure to test any new products on your arm or neck to see if you have a reaction.
  • Work with a dermatologist you trust. Together, you can find treatments and a routine that work for you.

References:

  1. EPSOLAY (benzoyl peroxide) cream, 5% [prescribing information]. Raleigh (NC): Mayne Pharma; revised 2025 Feb.
  2. Bhatia N, Werschler WP, Baldwin H, Sugarman J, Green LJ, Levy-Hacham O, et al. Efficacy and safety of microencapsulated benzoyl peroxide cream, 5%, in rosacea: results from two phase III, randomized, vehicle-controlled trials. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2023;16(8):34-40.
  3. Brammann C, Muller-Goymann C. An update on formulation strategies of benzoyl peroxide in efficient acne therapy with special focus on minimizing undesired effects. Int J Pharm. 2020;578:119074. doi: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119074

Important Safety Information

Indications and usage: EPSOLAY® (benzoyl peroxide) cream, 5% is indicated for the treatment of inflammatory lesions of rosacea in adults.

Contraindications: A history of hypersensitivity reactions to benzoyl peroxide or any component of the formulation in EPSOLAY.

Warnings and precautions: 

  • Hypersensitivity: Severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, have been reported with the use of benzoyl peroxide products.
  • Skin irritation/contact dermatitis: Erythema, scaling, dryness, stinging/burning, irritation and allergic contact dermatitis may occur with the use of EPSOLAY and may necessitate discontinuation.
  • Photosensitivity: Avoid or minimize exposure to natural or artificial sunlight and use sun protection measures.

Adverse reactions: Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥1%) are application site reactions: pain erythema, pruritus, and edema.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.