Differin Gel (Adapalene)

Do's

• Use this medication as directed by your healthcare provider or the product package, usually once daily at bedtime. 
• Gently clean the affected skin with a mild or soapless cleanser and pat it dry before applying Differin gel. 
• Wash your hands before and after applying this medication if you use gel, cream, or lotion. 
• Use your fingertips to apply a small amount of medication in a thin layer to the affected areas of the skin. 
• Unwrap the medicated swab and apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) if you are using the medicated swab. 
• Flush your eyes with large amounts of water if the medication gets into them and contact your healthcare provider if eye irritation develops. 
• Use Differin gel regularly to get the most benefit from it. Apply it at the same time each day. 
• Consult your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve after 6 to 12 weeks of using Differin gel or if it worsens at any time. 

Don'ts

• Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, lips, or on the inside of your nose or mouth. It should be used on the skin only. 
• Do not apply Differin gel to open wounds, infected areas, or skin affected by eczema. 
• Avoid bathing, showering, or swimming immediately after applying this medication. 
• Do not apply Differin gel to cut, scraped, or sunburned areas. 
• Do not use a larger amount or use it more often than directed. Using more than directed will not provide faster or better results and may increase the risk of side effects. 

It may take 8 to 12 weeks to notice results from Differin gel. During the first few weeks of use, your acne might appear worse because the medication is working on pimples forming inside the skin. 

Common side effects:

• Skin dryness
• Skin irritation
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Itching
• Redness
• Peeling of the skin
• Sunburn-like reaction

Serious side effects: Although rare, certain side effects may require medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

• Severe skin irritation or allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
• Severe burning or stinging sensation
• Severe redness or peeling of the skin
• Signs of an infection (e.g., fever, chills, sore throat)
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Differin gel,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Before taking  Differin gel, it is important to be aware of certain warnings and precautions:

1. Pregnancy and Allergy: Do not use Differin gel if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or allergic to adapalene or any of the other ingredients in the gel.
2. Skin Conditions: Avoid using Differin gel on areas with cuts, scrapes, or eczema. If accidental contact occurs with sensitive areas such as the eyes, mouth, or nostrils, immediately wash with warm water.
3. Sensitivity and Irritation: If you experience sensitivity or irritation when applying Differin gel, stop using it and consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend using the gel less frequently or temporarily discontinuing its use until the symptoms subside.
4. Sunlight Exposure: Minimize exposure to sunlight, including sunlamps, while using Differin gel. If exposure cannot be avoided, use sunscreen products and protective clothing over the treated areas.
5. Concomitant Use: Exercise caution when using other potentially irritating topical products, such as medicated or abrasive soaps, cleansers, or products with high concentrations of alcohol, astringents, spices, or lime, in combination with Differin gel.
6. Storage: Different forms of Differin gel may have different storage requirements. Read the package labeling or consult your healthcare provider for specific storage instructions.