A tube labeled
A tube labeled
Rx
4.8
26,584 Nurx-wide reviews
Rx
Generic Aczone®

Dapsone gel 5%

4.8
26,584 Nurx-wide reviews

Dapsone† is an antibiotic medication that may be prescribed to treat acne-causing bacteria.

$40/month

As low as $0/mo with insurance

Find my treatment

Medication costs vary based on prescribed treatment and applicable insurance coverage. Not all insurance plans are accepted. Additional costs apply, including a consultation and support fee. Medication refill billed every 3 months, and will be filled through a local pharmacy of your choice. One tube of medication contains a 3-month supply.
This treatment requires an online consultation with a Nurx medical provider. If prescribed, they'll check in to ensure your treatment is working.*

A person with curly hair, radiant from their Tretinoin Cream routine, smiles broadly, showing their teeth against a light background.

How dapsone treats acne*

  • Stops the growth of bacteria that can accumulate in clogged pores
  • Provides anti-inflammatory benefits that helps skin look more radiant and fresh
Find my treatment
Close-up of a smooth, creamy white substance with a glossy texture, resembling a swirl; it could easily be mistaken for tretinoin cream.
DID YOU KNOW?

Acne is the most common skin condition in the US.

Real patient stories

Side-by-side images depict a woman's face before and after using Tretinoin Cream for acne treatment. Left: acne visible on cheek. Right: clear skin with closed eyes, highlighting the cream's effectiveness.
REAL RESULTS

Shannon, Nurx patient

Side-by-side comparison of a person with acne on the left and clearer skin on the right, highlighting the transformative effects of Tretinoin Cream. Both images show the person wearing glasses and facing the camera, showcasing their journey towards healthier skin.
REAL RESULTS

Nathalia, Nurx patient

The science behind it‡

Find my treatment
Fact 01

Antibiotic treatment

Antibiotics are a type of drug used to treat or prevent bacterial infections.

Fact 02

Stops bacteria growth

Dapsone works by stopping the growth of bacteria that can accumulate in clogged pores.

Fact 03

Anti-inflammatory benefits

This medication also may help reduce swelling and redness for active acne breakouts.

Find my treatment
Close-up of a finger with a dollop of pinkish tretinoin cream on the fingertip stands out against a neutral background.

How to use dapsone‡

Consistency is key to maximizing the effectiveness of your acne treatment.

Drug facts

Step 1

Wash the affected area with a mild cleanser and allow to dry.

Step 2

Apply a pea-sized amount in a thin layer to the affected area of the skin.

Step 3

Wash hands after use to avoid getting the gel in your eyes or mouth.

How Nurx works◊

Find my treatment
1

Request treatment

Complete our online medical consultation, which asks questions about your health history and skin concerns.

2

Connect with a provider

After evaluating your consultation, a provider licensed in your state will prescribe treatment (if clinically appropriate).

3

Get it delivered

We’ll send a 3-month supply to your doorstep and check in with you to see how it’s working. Pause or cancel anytime.

Find my treatment
A person's back and shoulders are shown, with short, straight brown hair, hinting at a skincare routine possibly incorporating Tretinoin Cream for enhanced clarity and brightness.

100%

online expert-level care

2+ million

Nurx patients served

A person wearing headphones and a beige sweater holds a smartphone with a floral case, glancing at an article on Tretinoin Cream.
Why Nurx?

Affordable

Quality treatment at an attainable price

Convenient

Easy refills & shipping to your door

Personalized

Providers help you find the right treatment

Supportive

Unlimited messaging for any questions, anytime

Common questions‡

See all FAQs
  • How does dapsone gel work?

    Dapsone gel is an effective treatment of acne as it has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, making it especially good for inflammatory acne breakouts. Dapsone is an antibiotic that helps control acne by reducing inflammation, and it works in your pores to fight acne-causing bacteria. You should apply it once or twice a day (or as directed by your provider) as part of your skincare routine, after washing with a mild cleanser and drying off your face.

  • What are the side effects of using dapsone gel?

    Before you begin using dapsone, it’s important to be aware of all possible side effects. Common side effects of topical dapsone treatment include burning, redness, itching, and dryness at the application site. Serious side effects are very rare, but stop using dapsone and seek medical attention if you experience shortness of breath, headaches, fatigue, or change in skin color. Don't start applying another acne medication without consulting your Nurx provider first.

  • How do I use dapsone gel?

    Before you apply dapsone gel, read through your instructions carefully. Wash the affected area with a mild cleanser and allow the skin to dry. Apply a pea-sized amount in a thin layer to the affected area of the skin once or twice a day (as directed by your Nurx provider). Do not apply to eyes, lips, mouth, nose, groin, or vaginal area. Wash your hands after use to avoid accidentally getting the gel in your eyes or mouth.

  • How long does it take to see results from dapsone gel?

    The timeline to see results from using dapsone gel as an acne treatment varies depending on how severe your acne is when you start using it. If you have mild acne, or what’s called mild inflammatory acne, you may notice a difference in 2 to 4 weeks after starting treatment. Moderate inflammatory acne may take about 4 to 8 weeks for noticeable improvement. If your acne does not improve after 12 weeks of consistent use, contact your provider.

  • Can I use dapsone gel every day?

    Yes, it’s safe to use dapsone gel every day. Because dapsone gel can help fight acne on a long-term basis, it’s important to continue using it every day for at least 2 months (and preferably 4–6 months) for the best results.

See all FAQs
Bald man in a gray suit and red patterned tie, smiling slightly, against a plain white background.
DR. PETER YOUNG, MEDICAL DIRECTOR

Meet your medical team

Peter Young, MD is the Medical Director for Nurx’s Dermatology specialty. Dr. Young is a board-certified dermatologist who advises the Nurx medical team on how to provide the highest quality of care for dermatology conditions through telehealth.

†Dapsone gel 5%, Rx only, treats acne vulgaris. This drug may cause side effects, including burning, redness, itching, and dryness at the application site. If you would like to learn more, see full prescribing information here. You are encouraged to report negative side effects to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
*Individual results may vary.
‡The information provided here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely upon the content provided here for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your provider.
◊Services not offered in every state. Medications prescribed only if clinically appropriate, based on completion of the required consultation.

Talk to our experts

Not sure if this medication is right for you?

Connect with a Nurx provider for a personalized treatment recommendation.◊
Explore treatment options

Exceptional care at every step

At Nurx, we make it easy to get the expert healthcare you deserve. From schedules to health history, everybody is different—so we provide treatment and care that’s personalized to you. Through life’s cycles, changes, and transitions, we’re here to help you make informed choices about your health.

Nurx: Nurx.com's Apple App Nurx: Nurx.com's Apple App
Hand holding a smartphone displaying a conversation about birth control pill concerns between a user and Dr. Nancy Shannon on the Nurx app.
Back to top