Adapalene gel (generic Differin)

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

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.

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.

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.