Why does adapalene make acne worse?

Author: Prof. Nash Johnson  |  Last update: Tuesday, May 3, 2022

During the first few weeks of using adapalene, your acne might appear worse because the medication is working on pimples forming inside the skin. It may take 8 to 12 weeks to notice results from this medication. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.

Does adapalene make acne worse before it gets better?

During the first 3 weeks you are using adapalene, your acne may seem to get worse before it gets better. Full improvement should be seen within 12 weeks, especially if you use the medicine every day.

Does adapalene make acne worse?

Skin redness, dryness, itching, scaling, mild burning, or worsening of acne may occur during the first 2-4 weeks of using the medication. These effects usually decrease with continued use. If any of these effects lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

How long does skin purging last with adapalene?

Be patient for one skin cycle, or about 28 days

Generally speaking, dermatologists say purging should be over within four to six weeks of starting a new skin care regimen. If your purge lasts longer than six weeks, consult your dermatologist.

Does Differin cause more acne?

Some users report an increase in acne when starting out with Differin Gel. May also cause dry skin. Other users find that their skin became dry with regular use.

Differin RUINED my skin... LOTS of pictures included

What can you not mix with adapalene?

Q. Can I mix adapalene with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid? Do not use adapalene at the same time as products containing alpha hydroxy acids (i.e. glycolic acid or lactic acid), benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid. This combo can be extra irritating, so you'll have to make a choice.

Can I use adapalene even if I don't have acne?

It's not a spot treatment and should not be used to treat a single pimple. For example, if you get acne on the face, Differin Gel should be applied to the entire face. It's meant for once-daily use, even when you see no signs of acne.

How does skin purging look like?

Skin purging typically looks like tiny red bumps on the skin that are painful to touch. They are often accompanied by whiteheads or blackheads. It can also cause your skin to become flaky. The flare ups caused by purging have a shorter lifespan than a breakout.

How do I know if my skin is purging?

Signs your skin is purging
  1. The breakout is limited to areas where you already had skin congestion, whiteheads or blackheads.
  2. Your breakouts cleared up much faster than your usual acne or pimples.
  3. Your breakouts did not leave marks or blemishes on your skin.
  4. All the breakouts seemingly started all at once.

How do you know if you're purging or breaking out?

So what's the difference between a skin purge and a breakout? Skin purging is when your skin is adjusting to the new product. Spots appear where you frequently get them and they go away faster than a normal pimple. Purging is a sign that the product is working and you should continue with the treatment as prescribed.

When should I stop using adapalene?

You should not stop using adapalene if your acne seems worse at first, unless irritation or other symptoms become severe. Check with your doctor if your acne does not improve within 8 to 12 weeks. Do not apply any topical product to the same area where you are using adapalene, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Is adapalene stronger than retinol?

Differin 0.1% Adapalene Gel, for example, can help treat acne. Studies have found evidence to suggest adapalene is just as effective as stronger retinoids, but the skin tends to tolerate it better.

Why is Differin making my skin worse?

During the first few weeks of using adapalene, your acne might appear worse because the medication is working on pimples forming inside the skin. It may take 8 to 12 weeks to notice results from this medication.

Is differin good for cystic acne?

Best overall cystic-acne treatment

He recommends Differin, the only prescription-strength retinoid that's available over the counter. Dr. Samer Jaber, the founder of Washington Square Dermatology, adds, “Differin should be the first OTC product someone with cystic acne should use.”

How do you treat acne that is purging?

How to treat skin purging. “If the skin barrier is compromised when you see purging then start ingredients which help with barrier repair, such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid in a non-comedogenic formulation. If you are using a treatment or product continue with a slower approach.”

How can I control my hormonal imbalance acne?

6 Ways To Fight Your Hormonal Imbalance Acne
  1. Over-the-counter Cleansers. Over-the-counter cleansers are often the first line of defense to try against pesky pimples. ...
  2. Topical Retinoids. ...
  3. Oral-contraceptive Pills. ...
  4. Spironolactone (Anti-Androgen Drugs) ...
  5. Accutane. ...
  6. Clean Up Your Diet.

Why does acne get worse before better?

Skin purging is a process that happens when certain skincare ingredients increase skin cell turnover. This encourages shedding of old, dead cells and growth of new, healthy ones. Unfortunately, this process often makes the skin look worse before it looks better.

Can I exfoliate while on Differin?

So if you're currently battling a bad breakout and have already applied some of your trusty benzoyl peroxide, it's best to hold off starting your Differin treatment. Other products to avoid would be chemical exfoliants or drying agents like toners. After all, Differin is a retinoid that increases cell turnover.

Can I use adapalene with vitamin C?

According to Dr. Sheila Krishna, it's totally fine to use vitamin C with over-the-counter retinol products or dermatologist-grade retinoids—which, BTW, is the broader term for vitamin A derivatives, including retinol, tretinoin, and adapalene, just to name a few.

Is adapalene better than benzoyl peroxide?

Differin (adapalene)

Benzac (benzoyl peroxide) is the most effective over-the-counter treatment for mild acne. Treats acne. Differin (adapalene) is commonly used for treating acne, but, it can cause skin irritation. Available over-the-counter from many brands.

Does adapalene lighten skin?

Adapalene gel is Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for the treatment of acne and has demonstrated clinical lightening of solar lentigines with twice daily application.

How does adapalene work on acne?

Adapalene is used to treat acne. Adapalene is in a class of medications called retinoid-like compounds. It works by stopping pimples from forming under the surface of the skin.

Can you mix adapalene and benzoyl peroxide?

Adapalene and benzoyl peroxide combination is used to treat acne. It works by killing the bacteria that cause acne and by keeping the skin pores clean (tiny openings on the skin). This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

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