Differin the brand name for adapalene, a topical treatment for acne. It is similar to Vitamin A, in that it helps your skin to renew itself more quickly. This results in fewer pimples and blackheads. Differin is usually applied once a day at bedtime. It sometimes takes eight to twelve before results become apparent, so do not stop taking Differin even if you can't immediately see a difference in your acne. In some cases, it will seem as though your acne is actually getting worse, because unseen lesions will erupt as your skin is slowly deep cleaned and medicated. This is a temporary effect, and should not cause you to stop taking Differin. You should always wash the affected areas before applying Differin, and wash your hands before and after applying it, so you do not exacerbate your acne.
You may experience some side effects if you use Differin. These may be the worst during the first few weeks of your treatment, and may include itching, dryness, scaling, redness, stinging, burning or peeling. These usually fade after a few weeks of use. If you are using Differin for your acne, you should avoid sunlight and sunlamps during the course of your treatment. This includes taking such measures as covering most of your skin with clothing and applying sunscreen on exposed skin, because Differin can cause your skin to be very sensitive to sunlight. Other weather extremes, such as very cold or windy weather, should also be avoided.

Why is this drug prescribed?

Adapalene has actions similar to vitamin A. It stimulates cell division in the skin and reduces the production of keratin. It aids skin peeling and prevents the formation of acne lesions. Acne is caused by blockage of sebaceous glands. This leads to an accumulation of the skins natural oils. Bacteria on the skin feed on sebum and produce waste products which further inflame the sebaceous glands, causing acne. Irritant substances can leak into the surrounding skin causing further inflammation. The action of adapalene combats the changes that take place in acne. Adapalene is used in the treatment of mild to moderate acne. It is best suited to dry and fair skin.

Treatments

* Acne

What side effects can this drug cause?

* Local skin reaction e.g. redness, itchiness, burning * Increased sensitivity to sunlight * Skin peeling * Eye irritation and swelling