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Adapalene Coupon - Adapalene 45g of 0.3% tube of gel

adapalene

Generic Differin
Used for Acne
Used for Acne

Differin (adapalene) works well for treating mild-to-moderate acne. Differin (adapalene) can cause skin irritation, burning, and itching right after using it, so make sure you have moisturizer with you to help with this side effect. This acne treatment has different strengths and formulations (e.g., cream, gel, lotion). But only the lower strength gel is available over the counter.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Sean Moshrefi, PharmD
Last reviewed on July 23, 2023
basics-icon

What is Differin (adapalene)?

What is Differin (adapalene) used for?

  • Acne

How Differin (adapalene) works

Differin (adapalene) is a retinoid. It prevents acne and pimples from forming by replacing your old skin cells with new skin cells. This helps unclog your pores that are plugged with dead skin and excessive oil. It also lowers the amount of inflammation on the skin.

When does Differin (adapalene) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsDifferin, Differin OTC
Drug ClassRetinoid
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription or over-the-counter

More on Differin (adapalene) essentials

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Avg retail price
$268.12(save 95.63%)
GoodRx discount
$11.71
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What are the side effects of Differin (adapalene)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Dry skin (up to 45%)
  • Scaling or peeling (up to 44%)
  • Stinging or burning (up to 29%)
  • Skin redness (up to 26%)

Other Side Effects

  • Itchy skin
  • Sunburn
  • Skin discomfort
  • Rash
  • Eczema
  • Eyelid swelling

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Allergic reactions: facial, eyelid, or lip swelling; hives; skin rash; trouble breathing
  • Severe redness or swelling of treated area
  • Severe burning or stinging of the skin
  • Severe skin irritation or skin dryness
When do Differin (adapalene) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Possible dry skin
Possible scaling or peeling
Possible stinging or burning on skin
Possible skin redness
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

especially during the first month of use

Burning sensation or stinging of skin

dryness and peeling of skin

itching of skin

redness of skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Rare

more common during the first month of use

Worsening of acne

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Differin (adapalene)

thumbs-up

Pros

A first-choice option for treating acne

Only need to apply once a day

Safe to use for acne in children 12 and older

The 0.1% gel is available without a prescription.

thumbs-down

Cons

Can get sunburns more easily

Can make skin dry, itchy, and flaky

Can take up to 12 weeks to see full effects

Skin might look worse before it starts looking better

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Differin (adapalene)

pharmacist
  • Take care of your skin by following a skin care routine that includes gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection while you're using Differin (adapalene).

    • Use a gentle, non-medicated cleanser to clean the areas where you'll be applying Differin (adapalene). Make sure your skin is completely dry before using the medication.

      • You might notice side effects, such as redness, dryness, stinging, and burning, are worse during the first 4 weeks of using Differin (adapalene). Some people might also notice that their acne gets worse when first using Differin (adapalene). This is common and expected, but your skin should start to improve with time. Let your healthcare provider know if these side effects get worse or don't calm down after a month or so of using the medication.

        • It's important to use moisturizers while you're using Differin (adapalene), as dry skin is a common side effect. Apply this medication first, wait until your skin is dry to the touch after rubbing it in, and then apply your moisturizer of choice. Avoid using other topical products containing alpha hydroxy, salicylic, or glycolic acid.

          • Differin (adapalene) makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, which means you might sunburn very easily. This is true even during the winter and on overcast days. Make sure to avoid sun exposure, wear protective clothing like a wide-brimmed hat, and use a moisturizing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 while you're using Differin (adapalene).

            • Differin (adapalene) is intended to be used on the skin only. Keep the medication out of your mouth, nose, and eyes. If you do accidentally get it in any of these areas, rinse them well with water.

              • If you're breastfeeding, make sure to use Differin (adapalene) on the smallest area of skin for the shortest period of time possible while nursing. Avoid applying the medication to areas where your baby could potentially ingest it or come into contact with it. Talk to your healthcare provider before using Differin (adapalene) if you're breastfeeding to make sure it's safe to do so.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Differin (adapalene)

                How do you use Differin (adapalene) gel?
                First, use a gentle cleanser to wash the area where you'll be applying Differin (adapalene) gel. Make sure your skin is completely dry before using Differin (adapalene). Place a pea-sized amount of medication onto your fingertips and gently rub the medication into the entire area. If you're using Differin (adapalene) for acne on your face, apply the medication to your entire face; it's not a spot treatment, so you shouldn't use it to treat a single pimple. For the best results, you should continue to use Differin (adapalene) gel daily to prevent future breakouts.
                Does Differin (adapalene) gel work?
                In clinical studies, participants had up to half the number of acne lesions after about 12 weeks of using Differin (adapalene) gel once every day. In the same study, up to 20% of participants who used Differin (adapalene) gel had "clear" or "almost clear" skin after 12 weeks.
                How long does Differin (adapalene) take to work?
                Some people might start to see results after using Differin (adapalene) consistently for 2 weeks. Keep in mind that the time it takes for the medication to start working can be different for everyone. You'll need to continue using Differin (adapalene) in order to see its full benefits. In fact, it can sometimes take up to 12 weeks to see results. Don't feel discouraged, continue using Differin (adapalene) once every day, and remember to take care of your skin using a skin care routine. If you don't see improvements in your skin after 12 weeks of using Differin (adapalene), speak to your healthcare provider about your options.
                What products can you use with Differin (adapalene)?
                You'll want to use a gentle, non-medicated cleanser before applying Differin (adapalene). Once the medication is completely rubbed in and your skin is dry to the touch, you can apply a mild moisturizer to help prevent dry or irritated skin. Make sure to also apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when you go outside to prevent sunburns. Don't mix Differin (adapalene) together with other creams, gels, or lotions; you should apply the medication to your acne as is. If you use other acne medications, you should apply them at a different time of the day. In addition, you should completely avoid using products that contain resorcinol or alpha hydroxy, salicylic, or glycolic acids, as these chemicals might make skin irritation worse.
                Does Differin (adapalene) help with wrinkles?
                Differin (adapalene) is only FDA approved to treat acne. But some studies suggest that using Differin (adapalene) off label might be useful for lessening the appearance of wrinkles that's caused by the effects of sun damage and aging. There are stronger prescription retinoids, such as tretinoin (Renova), that are specifically approved to treat wrinkles. If you have wrinkles and you're looking for ways to help get rid of them, speak with your provider about your options.
                Is Differin (adapalene) the same as tretinoin (Retin-A)?
                No. Differin (adapalene) and tretinoin (Retin-A) are different retinoid medications, but they are both used to treat mild-to-moderate acne. Differin (adapalene) contains adapalene, and Retin-A contains tretinoin. They both offer similar benefits and can cause similar side effects (such as skin irritation, redness, and peeling). But some studies suggest that Differin (adapalene) might be less irritating to the skin than tretinoin (Retin-A). Compare the two medications, and talk to your healthcare provider to discuss which medication would be the best fit for you.
                Can I use Differin (adapalene) all over my face?
                Yes, you can and should apply Differin (adapalene) to your entire face unless your provider told you otherwise. This medication works best for facial acne when it's applied to your entire face rather than applying it to individual pimples as a "spot" treatment.
                Can you use Differin (adapalene) while pregnant?
                Differin (adapalene) hasn't been studied in pregnant women. But in animal studies, the medication is known to be harmful to unborn babies when given by mouth. Because of this risk, talk to you healthcare provider before using Differin (adapalene) if you're pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant. They'll go over the risks and benefits of using this medication during pregnancy.
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                What are the risks and warnings for Differin (adapalene)?

                Differin (adapalene) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Allergic reactions

                Differin (adapalene) can cause allergic reactions, including severe itchiness; facial, eyelid, or lip swelling; and anaphylaxis. If these happen to you, stop using Differin (adapalene) and get medical help right away. These reactions require immediate medical treatment.

                risk-warning

                Sunburn

                Differin (adapalene) can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and cause you to get a sunburn more easily. Make sure to wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when you go outside, even on overcast days and during the winter. You should also avoid tanning beds while you're using Differin (adapalene).

                risk-warning

                Skin irritation

                • Risk factors: Soaps and cleansers with skin-drying effects | Products containing alcohol, astringents, spices, or lime

                  Differin (adapalene) can cause skin reactions where you apply it, including redness, scaling, dryness, stinging, and burning. These symptoms typically happen during the first 4 weeks of use and get milder or go away as you continue to use the medication. Your skin also might get irritated when the weather is very windy or cold.

                  Talk to your healthcare provider if these side effects become too bothersome. You'll probably need to use a moisturizer, apply Differin (adapalene) less often, or stop using it. Don't apply Differin (adapalene) to cuts, scrapes, or sunburned skin. Avoid using Differin (adapalene) at the same time as other potentially irritating topical products, such as soaps and cleansers that have a strong skin-drying effect and products containing alcohol, astringents, spices, or lime.

                  dosage

                  Differin (adapalene) dosage forms

                  The average cost for 1 tube of 45g of 0.3% of Differin (adapalene) is $30.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 88.81% off the average retail price of $268.12.
                  bottle of lotion
                  Bottle of lotion
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  59ml of 0.1%1 bottle$420.08$420.08
                  bottle of topical solution
                  Bottle of topical solution
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  60ml of 0.1%1 bottle$327.60$327.60
                  120ml of 0.1%1 bottle$320.52$320.52
                  gel pump
                  Gel pump
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  45g of 0.3%1 pump$30.00$30.00
                  package
                  Package
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  14 swabs of 0.1%2 packages$289.02$144.51
                  tube of cream
                  Tube of cream
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  45g of 0.1%1 tube$75.99$75.99
                  tube of gel
                  Tube of gel
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  45g of 0.1%1 tube$11.71$11.71
                  45g of 0.3%1 tube$30.00$30.00

                  Typical dosing for Differin (adapalene)

                  • Cream, gel, and topical solution: Apply a thin layer to the affected areas of skin once a day at bedtime. Gently rub it into the skin.

                  • Lotion: Apply a nickel-sized amount (3 to 4 pumps) to the affected areas of skin once a day. Gently rub it into the skin to form a thin layer.

                  • Swabs: Use 1 swab to apply a thin layer to the affected areas of skin once a day at bedtime. A single swab should be enough to cover all areas. Throw the swab away after you're done.

                  interactions

                  Interactions between Differin (adapalene) and other drugs

                  Differin (adapalene) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Differin (adapalene). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                  Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

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                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Differin (adapalene)?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Differin (adapalene). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Differin (adapalene)
                  Used for:
                  • Acne

                  $11.71 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
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                  latest news

                  What is the latest news about Differin (adapalene)?

                  images

                  Differin (adapalene) images

                  This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Gel.
                  white - Adapalene 0.3% Topical Gel
                  This medicine is White Tube Of Gel.white - Adapalene 0.3% Topical Gel
                  white - Adapalene 0.3% Topical Gel
                  This medicine is White Tube Of Gel.white - Adapalene 0.3% Topical Gel
                  white - Adapalene 0.3% Topical Gel
                  This medicine is White Tube Of Gel.white - Adapalene 0.3% Topical Gel
                  This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Gel.
                  white - Adapalene 0.3% Topical Gel
                  This medicine is White Tube Of Gel.white - Adapalene 0.3% Topical Gel

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                  References

                  Best studies we found

                  Alembic Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2023). Adapalene gel [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Acne clinical guideline.

                  Bagatin, E., et al. (2018). Comparable efficacy of adapalene 0.3% gel and tretinoin 0.05% cream as treatment for cutaneous photoaging. European Journal of Dermatology.

                  View All References (8)

                  Call Inc., doing business as Rochester Pharmaceuticals. (2022). Adapalene swab [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  Call Inc., doing business as Rochester Pharmaceuticals. (2022). Adapalene topical solution solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  Galderma Laboratories, L.P. (2023). Differin- adapalene lotion [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  Mayne Pharma Inc. (2022). Adapalene cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  Motamedi, M., et al. (2021). A clinician’s guide to topical retinoids. Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery.

                  Piskin, S., et al. (2007). A review of the use of adapalene for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management.

                  Shalita, A., et al. (1996). A comparison of the efficacy and safety of adapalene gel 0.1% and tretinoin gel 0.025% in the treatment of acne vulgaris: A multicenter trial. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

                  Tolaymat, L., et al. (2023). Adapalene. StatPearls.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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