Differin Gel

The active ingredient in Differin Gel is adapalene. Adapalene is a type of topical retinoid that reduces inflammation and promotes increased cell turnover. In the treatment of acne, these properties help to reduce redness and improve overall skin texture and appearance. Consistent use will help decrease the number and severity of pimples and promote the healing of any future ones that develop.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor or dermatologist and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Differin Gel. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Differin Gel:

• Since Differin Gel can increase your sensitivity to the sun, it is best to incorporate it into your nighttime skincare routine.
• Wash your face or the affected area with a gentle, non-medicated, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid cleansers with alpha-hydroxy or glycolic acids as these in combination with Differin Gel may be too irritating to the skin.
• After washing your face, let the skin dry before applying a thin layer to the entire face or the affected area. You may notice a slight stinging sensation after applying. Differin Gel is for external use only and should not be used anywhere else other than the affected area. Avoid applying the gel around the eye area or on your lips. Avoid getting the gel on any mucus membranes such as those within the nose or the mouth. Avoid applying the gel to broken, irritated, or sunburned skin.
• After letting it dry, apply a moisturizer on top. Wash your hands after using Differin Gel to avoid accidentally transferring the medication to unintended areas.
• Differin Gel is not a spot treatment and should not be used to treat a single pimple.
• Because Differin Gel can increase your risk for sunburns, daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 is very important. An oil-free product may be preferred to avoid clogging your pores and causing further breakouts, blackheads, pimples, or whiteheads. If outdoors for long periods of time, wear protective clothing.
• Avoid skin care products with other active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Using these in combination with Differin Gel may be too irritating for the skin.
• Avoid the use of waxing and chemical depilatories on areas treated with Differin Gel.

The most common side effects of Differin Gel include:

• Dry skin
• Itchiness
• Skin peeling
• Skin irritation
• Burning or stinging sensation

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Differin Gel. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, eyes or the face, and hives
• Signs of intolerable skin reactions such as redness, scaling, dryness, or a stinging or burning sensation that do not improve with use

These are not all of the possible side effects of Differin Gel. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Differin Gel, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Other skin problems such as cuts, abrasions, sunburns, or irritated skin that is dry, itchy, or red
• Eczema
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Do not use Differin Gel if you have:

• An allergy or hypersensitivity to adapalene or any of the other inactive ingredients found in Differin Gel (carbomer 940, edetate disodium, methylparaben, poloxamer 124, propylene glycol, purified water, sodium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid).

With regular use, Differin gel promotes the exfoliation of skin cells to reveal clearer skin over time. While some people may see improvements after 2 weeks, it can take up to 12 weeks to see an effect so it is important to be consistent with your routine. If no improvement is seen at the 12-week mark, consult your healthcare provider on whether Differin Gel is the right treatment for you.

When Differin Gel is used with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Differin Gel is available in the following strengths:

• 0.3% adapalene

There is also an over-the-counter (OTC) version of Differin Gel available that contains a lower strength of adapalene. Consult your doctor, dermatologist, or pharmacist on which product would be best for you.

Differin Gel should be stored at room temperature away from excess heat and out of reach of children. Do not freeze Differin Gel.

Differin Gel is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Galderma Laboratories.

Yes, there is a generic version of the brand name Differin Gel available.

Consult your doctor, dermatologist, or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while using Differin Gel. Depending on your results and current experience, they will know what is best to recommend for you in terms of the duration of use.

It is unknown if Differin Gel can cause harm to the unborn child. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Differin Gel can pass into the breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.