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](https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=a3b6f3c3-d615-4b00-a76f-134b75e30a50&type=display#section-12) 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.

Does Differin (adapalene) help with wrinkles?

Differin (adapalene) is only FDA approved to treat acne. But some [studies](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30105991/) suggest that using Differin (adapalene) [off label](https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/medication-basics/off-label-drug-prescriptions) might be useful for [lessening the appearance of wrinkles](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/retinoids/adapalene-vs-tretinoin-wrinkles) that's caused by the effects of sun damage and aging. There are stronger prescription retinoids, such as [tretinoin (Renova)](https://www.goodrx.com/renova/what-is), 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)](https://www.goodrx.com/retin-a/what-is) 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](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/retinoids/adapalene-vs-tretinoin-wrinkles) suggest that Differin (adapalene) might be [less irritating](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8609263/) to the skin than tretinoin (Retin-A). [Compare](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/retinoids/adapalene-vs-tretinoin) the two medications, and talk to your healthcare provider to discuss which medication would be the best fit for you.

adapalene

Generic Differin

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:

Sean Moshrefi, PharmD

Allison Gourley, PharmD

Last reviewed on July 23, 2023

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

Initial effect

MONTHS

Full effect

Drug facts

Common Brands	Differin, Differin OTC
Drug Class	Retinoid
Controlled Substance Classification	Not a controlled medication
Generic Status	Lower-cost generic available
Availability	Prescription or over-the-counter

Common Brands

Differin, Differin OTC

Drug Class

Retinoid

Controlled Substance Classification

Not a controlled medication

Generic Status

Lower-cost generic available

Availability

Prescription or over-the-counter

More on Differin (adapalene) essentials

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Differin Gel: What To Know About This OTC Acne Treatment

Written by Sarah Lobello Pearson, PharmD

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%)

Less Common Side Effects

Itchy skin
Sunburn
Skin discomfort
Rash
Eczema
Eyelid swelling

Differin (adapalene) 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:

HHOURS

DDAYS

WWEEKS

MMONTHS

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

More on Differin (adapalene) side effects

Light blue background with texture and warning sign pattern. In the center is a blue lotion tube with a white cap cut into thirds.
GoodRx Health

5 Adapalene Side Effects to Know About

Written by Austin Ulrich, PharmD, BCACP

The following Differin (adapalene) 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.

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price

$58.96(Save 85.65%)

GoodRx discount

$8.46

See prices

Pros and cons of Differin (adapalene)

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.

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 for Differin (adapalene)

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.

Common questions about Adapalene

First, use a gentle cleanser to wash the area where you'll be applying Adapalene gel. Make sure your skin is completely dry before using Adapalene. Place a pea-sized amount of medication onto your fingertips and gently rub the medication into the entire area. If you're using 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 Adapalene gel daily to prevent future breakouts.

In clinical studies, participants had up to half the number of acne lesions after about 12 weeks of using Adapalene gel once every day. In the same study, up to 20% of participants who used Adapalene gel had "clear" or "almost clear" skin after 12 weeks.

Some people might start to see results after using 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 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 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 Adapalene, speak to your healthcare provider about your options.

You'll want to use a gentle, non-medicated cleanser before applying 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 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.

Adapalene is only FDA approved to treat acne. But some studies suggest that using 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.

No. Adapalene and tretinoin (Retin-A) are different retinoid medications, but they are both used to treat mild-to-moderate acne. 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 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.

Yes, you can and should apply 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.

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 Adapalene if you're pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant. They'll go over the risks and benefits of using this medication during pregnancy.

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.

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.

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).

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.

Differin (adapalene) dosage

The average cost for 1 tube of 45g of 0.3% of Differin (adapalene) is $34.54 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 87.10% off the average retail price of $267.70.

Bottle of lotion

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
59ml of 0.1%	1 bottle	$420.08	$420.08

Bottle of topical solution

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
60ml of 0.1%	1 bottle	$946.54	$946.54
120ml of 0.1%	1 bottle	$851.04	$851.04

Gel pump

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
45g of 0.3%	1 pump	$42.03	$42.03

Package

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
14 swabs of 0.1%	1 package	$289.02	$289.02

Tube of cream

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
45g of 0.1%	1 tube	$75.99	$75.99

Tube of gel

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
45g of 0.1%	1 tube	$8.46	$8.46
45g of 0.3%	1 tube	$34.54	$34.54

Typical dosage 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 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.