Adapalene gel (generic Differin)

Adapalene gel has an anti-inflammatory effect, aiming to reduce blackheads, soreness and irritation.

How is Adapalene gel (Differin) applied?

Apply a thin layer of the gel to freshly washed, dry skin prior to going to bed.

How it works

Whether your skin is oilier due to hormonal changes, or your pores have become blocked for some other reason, blocked pores are usually the root cause of acne. Adapalene works to reduce the appearance of acne by unblocking pores, reducing inflammation, mild spots as well as blackheads and whiteheads.

Often prescribed in early acne and it can be 4 weeks before you start to see a noticeable clearing of your skin. After the acne is cleared you may need to keep using the gel to keep any further flare ups at bay.

Is Adapalene gel effective?

Adapalene will reduce redness and inflammation for a lot of patients using it, however, you may have to wait four weeks before you start seeing the effectiveness of the gel in clearing up acne. Acne is likely to flare up after stopping treatment, to avoid this you may have to apply a lighter dose of the acne treatment for some years after to keep the condition under control.

Are there any side effects to Adapalene gel?

Adapalene can cause irritation to the skin, dryness, a burning sensation and redness. In rare cases the gel can cause a local skin reaction, discomfort, itchiness or peeling skin, plus it can make people more sensitive to the sun.

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet.

Is it safe to apply Adapalene during pregnacy or breastfeeding?

While Adapalene is absorbed into the body in very small quantities it is not safe to apply the gel whilst pregnant or breastfeeding.  

Will Adapalene interact with other medication?

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.

You should make your doctor aware of any other medicines you are taking, particularly those for other skin conditions such as eczema.

Alternative treatments for acne

There are a variety of other acne treatments that can be taken, including a range of other acne creams, as well as combination packages of oral antibiotics and gels or creams. Some women may also be prescribed Co-cyprindiol (generic Dianette or Clairette), a contraceptive pill to treat their acne.

Reordering Adapalene gel

We will contact you through your Patient Record 6 weeks from your order to see how you are getting on with the medication. We may ask for some photos at this time as well to assess the response to treatment. It will also be an opportunity for you to give us feedback on your acne. To reorder Adapalene gel, go to your Patient Record and select ‘reorder’. You will be required to fill in the online questionnaire each time you reorder.