Adapalene cream 0.1 percent is a topical prescription medication indicated to reduce or eliminate skin lesions associated with acne vulgaris. This medication is only applied externally directly to the site of acne skin lesions. Patients should discuss the side effects of adapalene cream 0.1 percent with a medical professional before using this topical cream.
Dry Skin
Mild skin dryness was reported by approximately 42 percent of patients receiving treatment with this topical cream during clinical trials, according to Fougera, the pharmaceutical distributor of adapalene cream 0.1 percent. Skin dryness may cause the treated skin region to appear cracked or scaly, or the skin may begin to peel or flake.
Burning or Discomfort
When applying adapalene cream 0.1 percent to the skin, patients may experience burning, stinging or discomfort. During clinical trials, mild and persistent burning or stinging side effects were reported by nearly one-quarter of patients, the United States Food and Drug Administration reports. Though these side effects may diminish with continued use of this topical cream, patients who experience severe or persistent skin discomfort should consult a medical professional.
Irritation or Itching
Skin irritation or itching, also called pruritus, may develop on skin treated with adapalene cream 0.1 percent. Moderate, persistent itching was experienced by 4 percent of clinical trials patients, while mild, persistent itching was experienced by 21 percent of these patients, Fougera explains. Patients who frequently scratch at itching skin may exacerbate side effects of skin discoloration or irritation and may also increase their risk of developing a skin infection.
