Acne occurs as a result of the buildup of oils, dirt and bacteria in hair follicles and pores. Topical medications called retinoids are often prescribed to combat acne by killing bacteria and alleviating the inflammation in the skin's tissues. Differin gel is a topical medication prescribed to treat acne. The generic name for Differin is adapalene.
Formulas
Differin gel is a retinoid medication that contains the active ingredient adapalene, along with propylene glycol, purified water, sodium hydroxide and sometimes small amounts of hydrochloric acid. The gel is available in two strengths: a 0.1 percent and 0.3 percent formula. The weaker of the two gels is prescribed most often for acne; the stronger gel may be used for more severe cases of pimples, lesions and other blemishes.
Dosage
Users of Differin gel are directed to apply the topical medication nightly after washing and drying the afffected area. The dosage is described in the prescribing literature as a "thin film" and should be applied to the face, chest, back or other areas where acne is present. A normal course of treatment using Differin gel ranges between two to three months, depending on the severity of the breakouts. Based on the patient's response to the medication, a dermatologist may choose to increase the aggressiveness of the treatment by switching to the 0.3 percent formula, or may fall back to the 0.1 percent during the course of treatment.
Function
Differin works by reducing the inflammation beneath the skin. The retinoid gel reduces present blockages of pores and prevents the future clogging of pores that creates acne lesions. The manufacturer of Differin gel, Galderma Laboratories, reports that the absorption of the medication through the skin is low. The medicine goes below the epidermal level to correct the skin cell abnormalities that produce acne, but adverse reactions from medication in the bloodstream are highly unlikely.
Side Effects
People who use Differin may experience some side effects that are uncomfortable, but according to Drugs.com, gradually diminish over the course of treatment and are generally not worrisome. Side effects can include dry skin, itching, redness and minor irritation. Those who use the gel may notice that their acne seems to become worse before it gradually looks better. As explained by Galderma Laboratories, this is normal and to be expected. Patients who experience moderate to severe skin irritation when using the Differin gel products may benefit from switching to the gentler Differin 0.1 percent cream, according to the manufacturer's literature.
Precautions
Differin gel products are placed in category C for pregnancy, which means that this type of drug could harm an unborn baby if used during pregnancy. Pregnant women should seek another form of acne treatment under the supervision of their doctor. Women who are nursing should ask their doctor about the risks associated with using topical acne medications; whether or not the retinoid crosses into breast milk is not known. According to the patient-prescribing literature for the acne gel, Differin can cause a heightened response to sun exposure, and could result in sunburn during even short periods of exposure to natural or artificial light.
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