Differin: What to Know, and How to Use the Medication

Have you been diagnosed with acne vulgaris? As frightening as that condition may seem, it's just the scientific way to describe the common problem known as 'pimples', or 'zits'. If your doctor has prescribed you with a medication known as Differing (Adapalen), then you're probably curious as to what the medication is, and how it is going to be beneficial to you.

Differin comes in a gel form, as well as a cream form. Both forms come in .01% strength. The Adapalen in Differin binds to specific retinoic acid nuclear receptors where it modulates cellular differentiation, keratinization, and inflammatory processes. It has been suggested that the topical form of Adapalen normalizes the differentiation of follicular epithelial cells resulting in decreased micro-comedone formation. Systemic absorption is minimal. (In normal people words, Differin is a compound similar to vitamin A. It helps the skin to renew itself more quickly and therefore reduces pimple and blackhead formation.)

Because Adapalen can cause local irritation, be very careful when using other local irritants and products with a strong drying effect. This includes medicated or abrasive soaps, any products that contain sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid. Avoid using anything that contains high concentration of alcohol, astringents, spices, or lime rind while using Differin.

If you are an individual who is hypersensitive to Adapalen, it's recommended that you do not use Differin. If you plan on exposing yourself to ultra-violet rays for prolonged periods of time, don't use Differin.

The FDA's recommended indications of Differin are to apply the cream/gel to the affected area once a day at bedtime twenty to thirty minutes after you wash and dry the skin. A small amount of Differin goes a long way, but only use enough to cover the entire acne lesion so that it will be readily absorbed and work properly. When applying Differin, spread the medication away from the corners of your nose, mouth, eyes, and open wounds as to avoid contact with those areas and Differin.

Avoid applying Differin to any cuts, abrasions, eczematous, or sunburned skin. Also, take care to not apply Differin anywhere near the eyes, lips, and other mucous membranes. Some side effects that you may experience while using Differin include erythema (tender, red bumps), dryness, tingling, scaling, burning, or pruritus (an unpleasant itching sensation). These effects may occur within the first tow or four weeks of therapy and will lessen with continued use. Always remember to wash your hands before applying the medication to lessen any infection or worsening of your condition.

If you feel any of the side effects are becoming exceptionally worse, make sure to contact you physician.