How often should you use adapalene gel?

Should you start with fewer nights?

Once daily is the standard schedule, but a dermatologist can adjust it for irritation. Redness, peeling, dryness and burning are most likely during the first two to four weeks and usually lessen with continued use. A dermatologist can recommend a smaller amount, fewer applications or moisturizer before the retinoid. Make those changes with their help, especially if you already have prescription instructions. There is no single reduced schedule for everyone: the adjustment depends on how much irritation you develop.135

How do you use adapalene gel?

1. 1Gently wash the affected skin with a mild cleanser, then pat dry. Do not scrub or use an abrasive cleanser.
2. 2Spread a thin layer over the entire affected area, not just individual pimples. For facial acne, Differin directs you to cover the whole face.
3. 3Keep the gel away from your eyes, lips and mouth. If contact occurs, rinse the area immediately with water.
4. 4Wash your hands after applying the gel.

Use moisturizer to help with dryness. A moisturizer can be part of the routine; the acne gel does not need to run the entire bathroom. Avoid harsh or drying products, and approach other acne treatments cautiously because combining them can increase irritation. Differin 0.1% also advises avoiding products containing alpha hydroxy or glycolic acids.23

When should you use adapalene gel?

Bedtime is the usual time. Try to apply the gel at the same time each day. The US Differin 0.1% leaflet allows daytime use; let the gel dry before applying sunscreen. Limit sun exposure and tanning beds. Outdoors, use protective clothing and sunscreen with broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance.125

If you miss an application, apply it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next one. In that case, skip it and resume your usual schedule. Never double the dose. Using more gel or applying it more often will not improve results faster and can increase irritation.12

What does adapalene gel do?

Adapalene is a retinoid, a type of medication related to vitamin A. It helps prevent pimples from forming beneath the skin. Topical retinoids are recommended acne treatments that clear pores and treat blackheads, whiteheads and some pimples. They can also serve as maintenance treatment after acne is controlled, rather than being stopped automatically when breakouts improve.1567

Acne can appear worse in the first few weeks as previously unseen pimples surface. Continue as directed unless irritation becomes severe. Full benefit can take eight to twelve weeks or longer. If there is no improvement after about three months, ask your doctor to review treatment instead of increasing applications.13

When should you stop or get advice?

• Do not apply adapalene to cuts, sunburn or skin affected by eczema. Avoid waxing treated areas.
• Stop for severe irritation and ask a doctor before restarting. Stop and get urgent medical help for difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
• Ask a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Stop and contact your doctor if you become pregnant or plan pregnancy while using Differin 0.1%. NHS Highland advises avoiding adapalene during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• For children under 12, ask a doctor. Deep nodules or cysts need medical assessment because topical retinoids alone are not recommended for severe acne.