Differin (generic name Adapalene)

Class and Mechanism

Differin (generic name Adapalene) is referred to topical medicines as it is applied to the skin when treating severe acne manifestations. Its mechanism is based on skin renewal due to normalization of the skin cells. Differin is used only in patients older than 12 years.

Usage

Apply Differin once a day (preferably in the evening). Your hand and face must be clean (mild cleaneser is used other than soap and than a towel to dry the skin).

Spread the medication over the entire face avoiding the eyes, nose creases, and the lips. Wash the medicine away with water if Differin gets to any of them. Differin may also be applied to other skin zones if they are affected.

Keep to the recommendations of a healthcare professional as for the amount and regularity of applying Differin. Overdosage is not advised as it does not increase the total effectiveness but may result in stronger side effects. Continue to apply Differin as recommended even if it seems to you that it is in vain. Sometimes weeks or even months are needed to improve the situation. At the same time, Differin should not be used longer than your physician told you to.

Storage Rules

Room temperature is recommended for storing Differin. Protect it from humidity and high temperatures.

Safety and Additional Info

Unless told be a healthcare professional, avoid other medical skin medicines. Harsh cleansers and soaps are definitely not compatible with Differin. Please, be extremely careful with hair coloring or permanent chemicals, skin products with alpha hydroxy or glycolic acid, lime, stringents, and alcohol. Try not to use them during your treatment with Differin. Hair removers or waxes are also not recommended due to additional skin irritation.

Differin can make the skin more receptive to sunlight and artificial light sources with UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). When exposed to sun, use solar-control substances (SPF 15 and more) and protective clothes.

During the initial period of treating with Differin the state of your skin may become slightly worse. In case of severe skin irritation, consult with a healthcare professional. After 8 to 12 weeks of Differin usage, you can visit doctor to test the condition of your skin.