differin gel and cream

Differin can be used as a gel or cream for the treatment of mild to moderate acne. It contains the active ingredient adapalene, a form of Vitamin A. The cream is recommended for sensitive or dry skin and the gel for normal or oily skin.

Adapalene belongs to a group of medicines called retinoids (which includes tretinoin) and helps to reduce inflammation and black and white head formation on the outer layer of the skin. It unblocks pores and promotes skin cell renewal to help prevent spots. Differin is ideal for daily use in either a gel or cream to remove acne and return skin back to its healthy tone and texture.

Apply a thin layer of gel or cream evenly over the acne affected areas only once daily at bedtime.

Apply to all the parts of your face affected by acne 20 minutes after washing your face. Do not apply near or to the eyes, lips, nostrils or other sensitive areas. The gel should be applied to clean, dry skin and take care to wash your hands thoroughly before and after use.

You may not see results for up to four weeks. It is important to be consistent in your application of this medication in order for it to work properly.

Your acne may flare up after stopping treatment, to avoid this you may have to apply a smaller dose of the acne treatment for some years after to keep the condition under control.

Differin is not suitable for those with a hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients. Do not use in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Avoid sunlight and UV lamps while using this medicine. Do not use other acne products containing retinoids or benzoyl peroxide while using it or products that are irritating, drying or exfoliating to the skin.

Some people can experience a burning sensation, dryness, scaling and redness when they first use this medicine. This presents worst during the first week of use and then tends to settle.

For a full list of potential side-effects please see the Patient Information Leaflet below.

You should not use Differin if you think you might be pregnant, are pregnant or breastfeeding.

You can use other topical acne medications alongside Adapalene, however they should be used in the morning and your Adapalene at night. You should avoid any products that contain tretinoin, isotretinoin or tazarotene.

Download the Patient Information Leaflet here for gel

and here for cream