Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Adapalene

Adapalene: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Adapalene?

Adapalene is a topical FDA approved medicinal remedy for various skin conditions, especially for acne. It belongs to a category of retinoids. Retinoids are the derivatives of vitamin A. This retinoid’s usage is supposed to be the first-line therapy for acne treatment. It functions by stimulating the skin’s immune and anti-inflammatory response. Moreover, it hinders the proliferation of miscreant cells behind acne. Therefore, it diminishes the acne severity and promotes faster healing.

How does Adapalene benefit?

This retinoid is available over the counter and benefits your skin by fighting acne in the following ways:

  • Unclog blocked up skin pores. 
  • Treat acne deeply.
  • Speed up healing/ and blemishing with minimal irritation and harshness.
  • Diminish acne associated swelling & inflammation.
  • Reduce redness & pigmentation left by the acne pimple.
  • Stimulate faster skin renewal & immune action.
  • Suppress proliferation of pimple-causing cells.
  • Promote comedolytic activity and prevent the formation of black or white heads ahead.

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    What are the side effects of Adapalene?

    Severe allergic reactions with this medication are rare, but a mild warm & stingy sensation with skin drying may be felt on first application. It may last up to two to four weeks from the first day of application. These reactions usually decrease due to continuous usage. In case of worsening of these effects, reach the concerned health professional immediately. Moreover, avoid sun exposure while using it as it may increase your skin sensitivity.

    What is Adapalene

    Uses of Adapalene

    Side effects of Adapalene

    References

    1. NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2374937/
    2. Patient.info: https://patient.info/medicine/Adapalene-for-acne-differin-epiduo
    3. WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6445/differin-topical/details
    4. hims: https://www.forhims.com/blog/differin-Adapalene-vs-tretinoin
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    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Adapalene

    Yes, it's a retinoid (vitamin A derivatives). This is one of the third generation topical retinoids. It's a synthetic derivative of naphthoic acid, which displays retinoid action on the skin. It may show similar biologic activity as tretinoin (another retinoid used for skin problems) but has more chemical stability.

    One must follow the doctor or label instructions before using this gel. Apply a thin gel layer on the acne affected area, excluding the area below the eyes. Continue the usage once daily for 4-8 weeks. Don't expose yourself to the sun while using it. Avoid application during pregnancy.

    First, wash, clean & pat dry the acne affected area and your hands before application. Then apply a gel in a thin layer using your fingertips on that area, rub gently and keep it for at least 1-2 hours. Again, wash your hands after applying the gel. Continue the usage once daily for 4-8 weeks at bedtime.

    It is advised to apply the Adapalene gel/cream on washed and clean skin for best results. Make sure the skin is dried well before application. You can use moisturisers while using this therapeutic gel but avoid applying them at the same time. You can delay the application of moisturiser.

    The simultaneous usage of azelaic acid and Adapalene must be avoided as it may exaggerate skin drying, burning/tingling sensations, redness and skin peeling.

    Various studies suggest it is the best option for sensitive skin because it causes less skin irritation than other retinoids. Moreover, it possesses huge anti-inflammatory potential against inflamed pimples. But one must avoid sun exposure after its application or application on sunburned areas.

    Adapalene is the active component of Differin Gel. The Differin gel contains retinoid Adapalene (1%). It's the dermatologist recommended retinoid formulation for mild-moderate acne.

    Although both are third-generation retinoids and possess incredible effectiveness against acne, some studies indicate that Adapalene is slightly more effective in treating acne. Additionally, it causes relatively less skin irritation and is also available for over the counter purchase.

    As discussed earlier, acne may worsen during the early weeks of its application. Skin redness, mild burning sensation, skin dryness and itching may occur in the early weeks of usage. Yes, acne may worsen before getting better.

    Yes, one must use it regularly for 4-8 weeks, once daily at bedtime, for best results. It's better to apply it in the nighttime for at least 1-2 hours, as there will be no sun exposure at that time. One must not cease its usage before the mentioned period or until the noticeable results get visible.

    No, skin darkening does not happen with this retinoid. But in the initial weeks of its usage, temporary skin reddening may occur. Consult the doctor if redness persists for a longer time or gets worse. Moreover, it reduces post-acne pigmentation very effectively.

    Consult our experts for the best advice & better understanding.