PRODUCT DETAILS

Composition

• Adapalene 0.1%
  (1 mg adapalene per gram of gel)

Category / Class

• Topical retinoid
• Anti-acne medication
• Vitamin A derivative (retinoid)

Use / Indications

Used for:

• Acne vulgaris
• Blackheads and whiteheads  
• Mild to moderate inflammatory acne
• Prevention of new acne lesions

Mechanism of Action

Adapalene normalizes skin cell turnover, prevents pore blockage, reduces inflammation, and decreases formation of pimples and comedones.

Direction of Use

Typical usage:

• Apply a thin film once daily, preferably at night

Instructions:

• Wash affected skin gently and pat dry
• Apply pea-sized amount over entire affected area
• Avoid eyes, lips, nostrils, and broken skin
• Wash hands after application
• Use moisturizer and sunscreen regularly
• Improvement may take 8–12 weeks

Common Side Effects

Especially during first weeks:

• Dry skin
• Redness
• Peeling/scaling
• Burning or stinging
• Skin irritation
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight
• Temporary acne flare (“purging”)

Serious Side Effects

Seek medical attention if patient develops:

• Severe redness/swelling
• Severe burning
• Allergic reaction
• Eye swelling
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe skin discoloration

Warnings

Do NOT use on:

• Sunburned skin
• Eczema
• Broken or irritated skin
• Severe skin irritation

Important warnings:

• Increases sun sensitivity
• Avoid excessive UV exposure and sunlamps
• Use sunscreen daily
• Overuse increases irritation, not effectiveness

Drug Interactions

Use cautiously with:

• Benzoyl peroxide
• Salicylic acid
• Chemical exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs)
• Alcohol-containing products
• Harsh cleansers/astringents
• Other retinoids (e.g., tretinoin, isotretinoin)

Combining irritating products may worsen dryness and peeling.

Cautions

• Start slowly (e.g., every other night if sensitive)
• Use moisturizer regularly
• Temporary worsening (“purging”) can occur early in treatment
• Avoid waxing on treated skin
• Pregnancy: generally avoided unless advised by doctor
• Breastfeeding: avoid application on chest area