Can I use adapalene while breastfeeding?

What should I check before starting?

Safety information about acne medicines during breastfeeding is limited, so the decision needs to account for both you and your baby. Get individual advice if your baby was premature or is unwell, or if you take several medicines. Tell your doctor about your prescription medicines, supplements and skin products.134

Check which product you have: Differin contains adapalene, while Epiduo contains adapalene plus benzoyl peroxide. Differin and Epiduo are brand names, which gives the packaging something to announce before the useful information.2

Breastfeeding and pregnancy need separate decisions. Topical retinoids, including adapalene, are not recommended during pregnancy planning. If you think you could be pregnant, stop adapalene and contact your doctor rather than carrying over your breastfeeding advice.23

How should I apply adapalene?

1. 1Remove makeup, gently wash with a mild cleanser, and pat your skin dry. Avoid harsh cleansers and vigorous scrubbing.
2. 2Apply the smallest amount needed for a thin film over the acne affected area, rather than individual spots. Keep it off the nipple and areola, broken or sunburned skin, and areas with eczema.
3. 3Avoid your eyelids, lips, eyes, nose and mouth. Wash your hands after applying.
4. 4Wait until adapalene has absorbed before applying moisturizer or cosmetics.

Adapalene is usually applied once daily at bedtime. Follow your own label or prescription. If your skin is sensitive, a clinician can advise a slower start, such as two to three applications per week, increasing as tolerated. Applying more or using it more often does not improve results and increases irritation.12

What should I change in my routine?

Avoid other retinoids, salicylic acid or glycolic acid peeling products, abrasive cleansers, and strongly drying or alcohol based acne products. These can add to irritation. Protect treated skin with SPF 50 sunscreen and clothing, including on cloudy days, and avoid sunbeds. Do not use hot wax on treated areas.12

Follow the directions on your own package, even if the product name has already given itself top billing.1

What should I expect, and when should I stop?

Acne can initially worsen, and full benefit can take 8 to 12 weeks or longer. Dryness, redness, scaling, burning or stinging commonly occur during the first two to four weeks. Early worsening of acne and severe skin irritation need different responses.1

If skin becomes very irritated, reduce application frequency or pause treatment. Stop and contact your doctor if irritation is severe or does not improve. Seek immediate medical help for hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue or throat.12