Can you use adapalene during the day?

Does morning use change the sun precautions?

Adapalene can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Applying it at night does not remove the need for daytime protection. Minimize sun exposure, seek shade and wear protective clothing. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.34

Use sunscreen on exposed skin. General retinoid guidance calls for broad spectrum, water resistant SPF 30 or higher sunscreen that will not clog pores. UK guidance for Differin and Epiduo specifies SPF 50, including on cloudy days. Follow any higher protection requirement in your treatment instructions.15

How should you apply adapalene?

1. 1Remove makeup, gently cleanse the affected skin and pat it dry.
2. 2With clean fingertips, spread a thin layer over the acne affected area, not just individual spots. Keep it away from eyes, lips and the inside of your nose and mouth.
3. 3Wash your hands after applying adapalene.
4. 4Wait until adapalene has absorbed before applying moisturizer or cosmetics. Use daytime sun protection.

Adapalene comes as a cream, gel, lotion or solution, because apparently one acne treatment needs several catalogue entries. Use the directions for the form you actually have.3

What if you forgot last night's dose?

Use a missed dose as soon as you can, unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Do not double up or apply extra. A missed evening application is not a reason to start using adapalene twice daily.3

Can you use another acne treatment too?

An acne plan can include multiple products, but the bathroom shelf does not get a vote on the treatment plan. Benzoyl peroxide or topical antibiotics can be prescribed alongside a retinoid. Do not add another acne product to the same area without your care team's approval. Avoid other retinoids, abrasive cleansers and drying products; salicylic acid and glycolic acid can add irritation.135

What should you expect?

Acne treatment generally takes at least 6 to 8 weeks to produce fewer breakouts. Topical retinoids can take 12 weeks or longer to show improvement. For prescription adapalene 0.3% gel, arrange a treatment review if you have not noticed results after 12 weeks.245

Redness, dryness, scaling and burning are most likely during the first four weeks and usually lessen with continued use. Moisturizer can help. Your dermatologist can advise whether to use less, apply it less often or apply moisturizer first. Do not apply adapalene to sunburned, broken or eczema affected skin.25

When should you stop or get advice?

Stop and contact your doctor if irritation is severe or does not improve. Stop and seek medical attention for an allergic reaction, including swelling of the face, lips or throat. If you are pregnant or think you could be, stop adapalene and contact your prescriber. Discuss treatment before trying to conceive, and check with your clinician if breastfeeding.123