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DIFFERIN® (adapalene)
GEL, 0.3% DIFFERIN® (adapalene)
LOTION, 0.1%
From the makers of Differin® comes Epiduo® (adapalene and benzoyl peroxide) Gel 0.1%/2.5%. Click here to learn more.

Differin® (adapalene) Gel, 0.3% Frequently Asked Questions

What is Differin® Lotion, 0.1%?
  • Differin® Lotion, 0.1% is the newest formulation of Differin® and is available in an easy-to-use pump dispenser that offers patients easy spreadability. It is 1-mg adapalene (a synthetic retinoid) in a topical, aqueous-based lotion for use in the treatment of acne vulgaris. For more information, please see full Prescribing Information.
What is the difference between Differin® Lotion, 0.1% and Differin® Gel, 0.3%?
  • Differin® Lotion, 0.1% is a new formulation of Differin® and contains a lower concentration of adapalene than the gel formulation. It is the ONLY retinoid in a lotion formulation and is designed for easy spreadability. It is an aqueous-based retinoid lotion available in an easy-to-use pump dispenser. Differin® Gel, 0.3% is a clear retinoid gel with a more powerful formulation targeted for patients with more comedonal acne. Please see full Prescribing Information for Differin® Lotion, 0.1% and see full Prescribing Information for Differin® Gel, 0.3% to learn more.
What is the tolerability profile I can expect with my patients using Differin® Lotion, 0.1%?
  • The most frequently reported local tolerability side effect reported during clinical trials was dryness. Other signs and symptoms of local tolerability reported with less frequency were erythema, scaling, and burning/stinging. All side effects occurred mostly during the first 2 weeks of treatment and decreased thereafter. Most of the symptoms were transient with mild to moderate severity.
  • Patients should avoid concomitant use of other potentially irritating topical products (abrasive soaps and cleansers, soaps and cosmetics that have a strong skin-drying effect, and products with high concentrations of alcohol, astringents, spices, or limes). To learn more about the tolerability profile of Differin® Lotion, 0.1%, click here.

important safety info

Important Safety Information

Differin® Gel, 0.3% and Differin® Lotion 0.1% are both indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in patients 12 years and older. Adverse events reported with use of Differin® products include skin dryness, erythema, scaling, stinging and burning. Most adverse events reported were mild to moderate in severity, occurred early in treatment and decreased thereafter. With use of Differin® Gel 0.3%, adverse events may also include general skin discomfort, pruritus and sunburn. Excessive exposure to sunlight and sunlamps should be avoided during treatment with all Differin® products, and use of sunscreen products and protective clothing is recommended. Concomitant use of drying or irritating topical products (like products containing resorcinol, salicylic acid or sulfur) should be used with caution. Instruct patients to avoid the eyes, lips and mucous membranes when applying Differin® products, and not to apply to areas that have been depilated with wax products. Differin® products have not been tested in pregnant or nursing women, or with the elderly. Both Differin® Gel, 0.3% and Differin® Lotion 0.1% are Pregnancy Category C. Please see full Prescribing Information for Differin Gel, 0.3% and please see full Prescribing Information for Differin Lotion, 0.1%.
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This site is intended for US healthcare professionals only.
Are you a healthcare professional?

Important Safety Information

Differin® Gel, 0.3% and Differin® Lotion 0.1% are both indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in patients 12 years and older. Adverse events reported with use of Differin® products include skin dryness, erythema, scaling, stinging and burning. Most adverse events reported were mild to moderate in severity, occurred early in treatment and decreased thereafter. With use of Differin® Gel 0.3%, adverse events may also include general skin discomfort, pruritus and sunburn. Excessive exposure to sunlight and sunlamps should be avoided during treatment with all Differin® products, and use of sunscreen products and protective clothing is recommended. Concomitant use of drying or irritating topical products (like products containing resorcinol, salicylic acid or sulfur) should be used with caution. Instruct patients to avoid the eyes, lips and mucous membranes when applying Differin® products, and not to apply to areas that have been depilated with wax products. Differin® products have not been tested in pregnant or nursing women, or with the elderly. Both Differin® Gel, 0.3% and Differin® Lotion 0.1% are Pregnancy Category C. Please see full Prescribing Information for Differin Gel, 0.3% and please see full Prescribing Information for Differin Lotion, 0.1%.