Adapalene (On the skin)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to adapalene.

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed. Extra medicine will not make it work faster and may cause red, peeling, or irritated skin.
This medicine is usually applied in the evening.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
Before you apply this medicine, wash your skin with water and a mild soap. Rinse well and pat dry.
Apply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
Use this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not apply to wind burned or sunburned skin.
Missed dose: Apply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.

Do not use any other medicines on the treated skin areas without asking your doctor. Do not use any skin care products that can dry or irritate your skin. These include rough skin cleansers, hair removal products, soaps or cosmetics that cause dryness, or products that contain alcohol, astringents, spices, or lime.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you are sensitive to sunlight or have eczema.
Use a moisturizer as needed if your skin becomes irritated.
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, wind, and cold weather. Use sunscreen when you are outdoors, and wear protective clothing, such as a hat. Do not use a sunlamp or tanning bed.
At first, your acne may seem to get worse before it gets better. Keep using the medicine as directed.
Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined. Do not use this medicine on skin that is sunburned or has active eczema.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blistering, burning, crusting, dryness, or flaking of the skin
Severe skin redness or swelling

Last Updated: 1/27/2017