Adapalene Gel .3% (Differin)

Adapalene helps to control the formation of new acne breakouts and speed the healing of existing pimples. However, it is not a cure for acne and must be used continuously to control this condition. During the first 8 to 12 weeks of use, Adapalene may cause acne to worsen, as it brings existing pimples to the surface to begin the healing process. It is important to continue using Adapalene for several months to assess the full potential of this medication.

You should follow the directions on the packaging exactly for any Adapalene product unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Do not attempt to increase or reduce usage without first contacting your healthcare provider.

Adapalene is available over the counter. You can find it in many pharmacies and big-box stores. Adapalene is the generic name for Differin acne treatment gel. Other manufacturers may also offer products that use Adapalene as the active ingredient, such as La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel or ProactivMD Adapalene Gel Acne Treatment. If you get a prescription for Adapalene from your doctor, your insurance may cover some of the cost, depending on your plan and coverage. You can typically expect to pay around $17 for a 0.5-ounce tube of Adapalene gel.

Many skin care products can cause irritation if used along with Adapalene, so it's best to discuss all products you're using with a doctor or pharmacist before you add Adapalene to your skin care regimen. You will likely experience a reaction if you use Adapalene with skin care products that contain:

• Alcohol.
• Lime rind.
• Sulfur.
• Salicylic acid.
• Glycolic acid.
• Alpha hydroxy acid.
• Spices.

You should avoid any unnecessary exposure to sunlight while using Adapalene. Wear protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible, and always use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Exposure to cold or wind may cause irritation when you're taking Adapalene. Avoid exposure to tanning beds or other forms of artificial light. You should not use hot wax for hair removal while you're using Adapalene. 

When using Adapalene, you should avoid contact with the eyes, nose, lips, and mucous membranes. 

The effectiveness of Adapalene has not been assessed for patients under the age of 12 or over the age of 65.

Side effects associated with Adapalene are usually worst during the first month of treatment and will typically lessen with time. The most common effects are:

• Stinging or burning.
• Scaling.
• Dry skin.
• Erythema (redness).

Using a moisturizer will typically reduce the severity of these side effects. 

Other common side effects include:

• Itching.
• Sunburn.
• Peeling.
• Brief warming sensation after application.

Less common side effects that may occur with Adapalene are:

• Eczema.
• Rash.
• Acne flare.
• Contact dermatitis.

Serious but uncommon side effects may include:

• Intense burning.
• Eyelid swelling.
• Skin discoloration.
• Red, watering eyes.
• Very irritated or red skin.

If you experience serious side effects with Adapalene or have any form of irritation that is too severe to manage, you should consult your healthcare provider. Your doctor may recommend that you reduce the frequency of use or discontinue using Adapalene entirely.

There are no known drug interactions with Adapalene. As mentioned previously, you may need to change your skin care routine if you use abrasive products or those that dry out your skin. You should not use Adapalene products if you have had severe adverse reactions to Adapalene in the past. This medication is for topical use only. If ingested, you should seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

No, this medication is not available from Nurx.

The brand name version of Adapalene is Differin. This is a product of Galderma, the medical solutions branch of Nestle Skin Health.

Adapalene may cause your acne to worsen before it improves. This is because the retinoid brings pimples and imperfections to the surface. Since pimples can take four to six weeks to form, you may have developing breakouts under the surface of your skin that weren't visible when you began using Adapalene. After about a month of continuous use, you may begin to see results. However, some patients will not see notable results until they've used Adapalene daily for three months.

If you discontinue the use of Adapalene before it has a chance to work properly, your acne may worsen. It's best to discuss your skin care with a healthcare provider before you choose to stop using Adapalene to determine if a different frequency or concentration will give you better results.

Adapalene has been used by some as an anti-aging product. There is some evidence that it can help reduce the appearance of dark spots. Adapalene may also help reduce the appearance of fine lines and brighten dull skin. If you plan to use Adapalene for purposes other than acne control, you should speak with your healthcare provider about the best way to incorporate this product into your skin care routine.

Yes, you should use Adapalene daily to get the best results from this skin care product. You should apply Adapalene before bed, so you don't need to apply makeup or other products on top of the Adapalene medication. Unless otherwise advised, the best method of application is to:

1. Gently cleanse your skin with a mild soap. Do not scrub vigorously, as this can irritate the skin and worsen sensitivities that are already caused by Adapalene. Pat dry with a soft clean towel.
2. Gently spread a thin layer of Adapalene gel or cream over the affected area. If you're using Adapalene on a wipe, open the packet and gently wipe the affected area. Discard Adapalene wipes after use. These are not intended for reuse. Apply Adapalene to the entire area that's affected rather than a single pimple or small patch of irritation.
3. Apply a moisturizer to the affected area if needed to calm irritation and dryness. This is optional.

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