Freederm

Freederm Gel is a cooling, translucent, fragrance-free topical acne treatment containing nicotinamide - a proven anti-inflammatory relief from inflamed acne, pimples and spots in all age groups. Freederm Gel is especially useful for tackling the redness and tenderness of acne spots and is, in fact, the only over the counter gel specifically targeted at acne inflammation.

1. What is Freederm?

There are now five products in the Freederm range:

• Freederm Gel is a translucent gel containing 4% Nicotinamide (vitamin B3 complex) which is applied directly to the spot which reduces inflammation and redness.
• Freederm Facial Cleanser (formerly Freederm Lotion) is a light, creamy antibacterial cleanser that cleans the face of dirt and oil. Freederm can be washed off or removed with cotton wool.
• Freederm Moisturiser is a light, hydrating cream for spot prone skin.
• Freederm Exfoliating Scrub is a cleansing product containing little beads to remove dead skin cells and helps to control excess sebum.
• Freederm Sensitive Scrub is a gentle face wash for deep pore cleansing without irritation.

2. What is Nicotinamide and what does it do?

Nicotinamide is a water-soluble B vitamin. It is used in medicine as an anti-inflammatory for skin conditions such as acne vulgaris. (This ingredient is found in the gel only).

3. What is the difference between Freederm and other acne treatments?

Freederm Gel in particular, separates itself from other acne treatments by containing the anti-inflammatory ingredient Nicotinamide (vitamin B complex). It specifically targets redness and swelling within the pores.
The Freederm Lotion is a gentle cleanser and does not strip the face. Instead skin will start to feel soft and smooth after continuous use.

4. How do I apply Freederm?

Firstly, wash face with a chosen cleanser or face wash (Which includes Freederm Lotion if desired). Ensure skin is nice and clean, rinse and pat dry. (Be sure to not rub/scrub to vigorously, as this can make the condition worse). The gel can then be applies straight on to the spot, just enough to cover the whole area. Use twice a day. If you have chosen to use the Freederm Moisturiser, apply that after your gel treatment. Smooth onto the face and neck for soft skin. Lastly, the Freederm Exfoliator is to be used on a regular basis (but not daily). It can be used with or with out the other Freederm products. Wet the face, gently massage in and then rinse with warm water. Continue with the Gel and the Moisturiser if desired.

5. Is Freederm just for the face?

Inflammatory acne can also occur on the back, shoulders, chest and arms. So no, if you feel your acne is quite severe on the body, then both of the Freederm products are perfectly ok to use on these areas.

6. Who can use Freederm?

There are no age limits or restrictions on who uses Freederm. However it is recommended for use between the early teens (13+ when acne may start appearing) to adulthood.
In pregnant women, studies have shown no side affects to using Freederm, however it is always recommended to ask your doctor before using this product, especially within the first trimester.

7. Are there any precautions or side affects?

Freederm is a treatment for external use only. Keep away from the eyes and mucous membranes, including those of the nose and mouth. If excessive dryness, irritation or peeling occurs, reduce the dosage to one application per day or every other day or as preferred. If you experience any uncomfortable/painful burning or stinging, discontinue use and seek advice from your doctor.
If you think you might have a hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients then avoid use. (For full ingredients please refer to question 9.)

8. How long do I use Freederm for?

Freederm Gel and Lotion needs to be used for at least 3 weeks before results begin to show. There is no time limit on how many weeks/months/years you continue to use this range for. Once your spots have reduced or disappeared, it is recommended to continue using Freederm Lotion to keep your skin clean, fresh and free from spot-causing bacteria. The Gel is handy to have around to target any new spots starting to appear.

9. What are the full ingredients in Freederm products?

• Freederm Gel: Nicotinamide • Aluminium Magnesium Silicate • Hypromellose • Citric Acid • Polyoxyethylene Lauryl Ether • Purified Water.
• Freederm Lotion: Aqua • Cetearyl Alcohol • Ceteth 20 • Paraffinum Liquidum • Isopropyl Myristate • Benzalkonium Chloride • Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride • Phenoxyethanol.
• Freederm Moisturiser: Aqua • Cetearyl Alcohol • Glycerine • Ceteareth 20 • Paraffinum Liquidum • Isopropyl Myristate • Phenoxyethanol • Benzalkonium Chloride • Chlorhexidine Dihydrchloride.
• Freederm Exfoliating Wash: Aqua • Sodium Laureth Sulfate • Cocamide DEA • Niacinamide • Polyquaternium-7 • Glycerin • Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Cross Polymer • Sodium Hydroxide • Citric Acid • Phenoxyethanol • Polyethylene • Disodium EDTA • Jojoba Esters • Methylchloroisothiazolinone • Methylisothiazonlinone • Magnesium Chloride • Magnesium Nitrate • CI 77007 • CI 42090:2.

10. Does Freederm smell?

All the Freederm products have no unpleasant or medicated smells and they do not contain perfume.

11. Who manufactures Freederm?

Freederm is made by Diomed Developments Limited.

12. I have read about a Freederm eczema treatment, what is it and where can I buy it?

The eczema treatment "FreeDerm" is a product made only in the USA. It has nothing to do with Diomed who make Freederm Gel, Lotion, moisturiser and exfoliator and is not licensed for retail in the UK.

• If there is any information you would like to know about Freederm that is not featured in our FAQs, please don't hesitate to contact the Express Chemist team on 0800 5421203 (9am-5pm Mon-Fri) and we'll be happy to help.