Differin

Differin cream and gel (Adapalene) for prescription acne treatment

How does Differin work?

Differin works through an active ingredient called adapalene, which functions in a similar way to other acne medicines called 'retinoids' and are derived from vitamin A.

How to use Differin?

Differin preparations are usually applied to the affected area once a day, at night-time, after the area has been washed and rinsed with warm water and patted dry. Both preparations come in a tube, and are applied to the skin with the fingertips. Differin should not be used by children under the age of 12.

It may take a little time before you will see Differin working, but it should not be used for more than 12 weeks (three months) continuously without checking with your doctor that it is still appropriate and is working well.

The cream or gel should be used carefully on the face; avoid contact with the eyes and mouth, the angles of the nose, and any cuts or other patches of sensitive or broken skin. You should not expose yourself to excessive amounts of sunlight and avoid sun lamps while using this product, to avoid skin irritation and dryness.

Is Differin suitable for me?

There are some situations where Differin Cream or Gel should be used with caution or would not be recommended - for example, in patients who have severe acne or acne covering a large area of the body. It is not usually used at the same time as any other treatments for acne. If it doesn't work for you, talk to your doctor as a different acne treatment might be better.

Tell the doctor if you are taking any other medicines, either from your doctor or purchased from a pharmacy. Differin may not be suitable or may need to be used with caution if you are taking other treatments, such as different medicines or creams for acne, especially other ones that contain vitamin A derivatives (such as Isotrex). It will not be suitable if you are allergic to adapalene, or any of the other ingredients.

Differin is best suited for use on dry and fair skin, and can be used on the chest or back as well as on the face, as necessary.

What are the side effects of Differin?

Like all medicines, Differin can cause side effects, although not everybody will experience them. Side effects that are considered to be common include skin dryness, redness, irritation, or itching. Less commonly, skin pain or discomfort has been reported.

For a full list of potential side effects and other important information, please read the patient leaflet provided in the pack before starting any course of treatment. The leaflets can also be viewed online here: Differin Cream, Differin Gel.

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