Differin gel

Apply a thin layer of Differin to the affected acne area once a day, at bedtime.

• Before applying Differin, wash the area being treated with water and pat dry.
• Ensure your skin is dry before applying Differin.
• Squeeze a small amount of gel from the tube onto your clean fingertip.
• Apply a thin layer of the gel onto the affected areas of acne, not just each spot.
• Don't apply a large amount of gel – this will irritate the skin.
• Don't apply near your eyes, nose, mouth, broken skin or areas with sunburn or eczema or dermatitis.
• Wash your hands after applying Differin. 

It isn't harmful if you forget to apply Differin. Just continue to apply the same amount at the usual time, the next day. Don't apply double the amount – this may cause skin irritation.   

Here are some things to know when you're taking Differin. Other things may be important as well, so ask your healthcare provider what you should know about.

• Keep using Differin: Even if your acne seems to get worse when you first start using it.
• The effects of Differin are not immediate: It may take about 4 to 8 weeks before you notice an improvement.
• Pregnancy: Don't use Differin if you're pregnant, or if there's a chance you could become pregnant. 
• Be aware of skin sensitivity: If you get redness, dryness, peeling or a feeling of burning on your skin, try applying Differin every second night, or less often (such as every third night). As your skin gets used to Differin, you can then apply it every night. If your skin is sensitive, you may also wash off the Differin after 1 or 2 hours of applying.
• Sun: Differin can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, even on a cloudy day. This can cause a burning, tingling feeling on your skin when you're in the sun, or you may notice redness. When outside, protect your skin by using a good sunscreen (at least SPF30+), and clothing that protects you from the sun. Do not use sunbeds.
• Using make-up: You can wear make-up while using Differin – just remember to remove the make-up before applying Differin. Some cosmetic products have a dry, abrasive or peeling action and may irritate the skin when used together with Differin. Check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist which ones you can use.

Like all medicines, Differin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. If you're concerned about any symptoms you think might be related to your medicine, talk to your healthcare provider. The following information offers some guidance but doesn't include all possible side effects.

Common side effects

• Redness or burning feeling on your skin.
• Dry, itchy skin.
• Skin peeling.
• Flare-up of acne.

Phone 111 for an ambulance or go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) clinic if these occur

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as itchy skin, and rash, swollen lips or tongue, problems breathing, like a tight chest or shortness of breath.

Read more about medicines and side effects and reporting a reaction you think might be a side effect.