Differin Side Effects

Generic name: adapalene topical

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 31, 2023.

Note: This document contains side effect information about adapalene topical. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Differin.

Applies to adapalene topical: topical cream, topical gel/jelly, topical lotion, topical solution, topical swab.

Serious side effects of Differin

Along with its needed effects, adapalene topical (the active ingredient contained in Differin) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking adapalene topical:

More common

• Burning sensation or stinging of skin
• dryness and peeling of skin
• itching of skin
• redness of skin

Other side effects of Differin

Some side effects of adapalene topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Rare

• Worsening of acne

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to adapalene topical: topical cream, topical gel, topical lotion, topical solution, topical swab.

Dermatologic

Very common (10% or more): Persistent pruritus (up to 74%), persistent burning/stinging (up to 71%), erythema (up to 60%), scaling (up to 60%), pruritus (up to 60%), dryness (up to 48%), pruritus immediately after administration (up to 30%), skin stinging or burning (up to 22%)

Common (1% to 10%): Skin irritation, sunburn

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Contact dermatitis/eczema, dermatitis, skin discomfort/pain, skin exfoliation, acne/acne flares, skin swelling

Postmarketing reports: Allergic dermatitis/allergic contact dermatitis, rash, eczema, skin discoloration^[Ref]

Pruritus, erythema, scaling, dryness, irritation, sunburn, and acne flares usually occurred during the first month of therapy and decreased thereafter. These side effects were reversible when treatment was discontinued.

Skin exfoliation was associated with skin exposed to mechanical abrasion (e.g., waxing).^[Ref]

Local

Very common (10% or more): Burning (up to 60%); burning immediately after application (up to 30%)

Frequency not reported: Burning/stinging^[Ref]

Burning and stinging usually occurred during the first month of therapy and decreased thereafter. These side effects were reversible when treatment was discontinued.^[Ref]

Respiratory

Common (1% to 10%): Pharyngitis, rhinitis, sinusitis^[Ref]

Genitourinary

Common (1% to 10%): Dysmenorrhea^[Ref]

Ocular

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Eyelid irritation, eyelid erythema, eyelid pruritus, eyelid swelling/edema

Postmarketing reports: Conjunctivitis^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Tooth anomaly, tooth disorder^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Allergic reaction

Postmarketing reports: Allergic contact dermatitis/allergic dermatitis^[Ref]

Other

Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Lack of drug effect

Frequency not reported: Flu syndrome^[Ref]

Nervous system

Frequency not reported: Headache^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• What are the most common skin conditions? (with photos)
• Can Tazorac and Differin be used together?

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer