Differin 0.1% w/w Cream and Gel

The active ingredient in Differin is the topical retinoid adapalene, which has an anti-inflammatory effect and reduces soreness and irritation. It is used on the face, chest or back for acne, where the skin has a lot of blackheads, spots and pimples. Differin is only absorbed into the body in very small amounts and has little effect, except on the surface of the skin.

Do not use Differin (Cream or Gel):

• if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to adapalene or any of the other ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet
• if you are pregnant
• if you are planning a pregnancy
• on areas where you have cuts or scrapes or if you have a skin condition called eczema

• DO NOT use Differin if you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
• 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.
• Differin can be used during breastfeeding - to avoid contact exposure of the infant, application of Differin to the chest should be avoided

You must tell your doctor if you are taking, have recently taken or might take other medicines, in particular other acne products containing benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin or clindamycin. These may be used with Differin, but they MUST be applied in the morning and Differin at night.

• dry skin
• irritation of the skin
• burning sensation of the skin
• redness of the skin (erythema)
• local skin reaction (contact dermatitis)
• peeling skin (exfoliation)

Further products available include Zineryt (topical antibiotic) and Skinoren (azelaic acid). Combination treatment Duac Once Daily (with topical antibiotic plus benzoyl peroxide) or Epiduo (with topical retinoid plus benzoyl peroxide) are available to step up to if other treatments have not been successful.

Other treatments for more severe acne are also available such as Roaccutane (isotretinoin) and Dianette (a contraceptive pill for women only). These treatments need to be monitored closely and can only be prescribed by your GP or specialist dermatologist.