How to use Differin

• Differin cream/gel should be applied to the affected areas once daily in the evening, after washing with a mild cleanser.
• Apply a small amount to cover the affected areas using clean fingertips and rub in lightly.
• At the start of treatment with Differin, if it is used correctly it will produce effects similar to that of mild sunburn including mild itching, redness and warmth. This is normal and should subside.

To get the best effects from Differin cream/gel it is important that it is for up to THREE months continuously depending on response. Improvement should be seen after a few weeks. This period is called the ‘Differin purge’.

You may use cosmetics and moisturisers whilst you are using Differin cream however you should wait for it to be fully absorbed into the skin before applying anything else. Differin has a drying effect on the skin so it is important to try to ensure that any toiletries containing alcohol or other skin-drying ingredients are not used.

Differin ingredients

Differin contains the active ingredient: adapalene 0.1%.

Differin Cream also contains: Carbomer 934P, Macrogol-20 methyl glucose sesquistearate, glycerol (E422), natural squalene, methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218), propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216), disodium edetate, methyl glucose sesquistearate, phenoxyethanol, cyclomethicone, sodium hydroxide & purified water.

Differin side effects

Like all topical applications, there is the potential that you may be allergic to Differin. We recommend you do a spot test before commencing treatment.

If you do experience side effects from Differin cream/gel, they can include:

• a burning, stinging or tingling feeling
• dry skin
• itching or redness
• a rash

See our Differin side effects page for more information and make sure to read the Patient Information Leaflet enclosed with your medicines for a full list of side effects, before applying.

It is usually well-tolerated and gets positive ratings from patients who review Differin.

If you experience any adverse effects from taking your prescribed medicine it is important to let us know immediately. Please log in to your online account and message one of our healthcare professionals or alternatively call us on 0333 2200519. In a medical emergency, you should contact the emergency services or go straight to your local Accident & Emergency.

Differin Warnings

• Do not use this medicine on areas where you have cuts or scrapes or if you have a skin condition called eczema.
• Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth or nostrils, and avoid other very sensitive areas of the body. If accidental contact does occur, immediately wash with warm water.
• Avoid exposure to strong sunlight and artificial UV light. If you experience sensitivity or irritation when applying this medicine, stop using it and tell your doctor. You may be asked to use the gel less often or to stop using it for a short time. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines:

• Other acne products (containing benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin or clindamycin) may be used with Differin but they must be applied in the morning and Differin at night.
• Cosmetics may be used but they must not cause blackheads or dry the skin.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• Differin should not be used during pregnancy. If you fall pregnant while using Differin, the treatment must be discontinued and you should inform your doctor as soon as possible for a further follow-up.