Differin XP Gel is used to treat acne. It works by affecting the growth of cells and decreasing swelling and inflammation. It may decrease the number and severity of acne and promote quick healing of pimples that do develop.

Apply Differin XP Gel exactly as directed by the healthcare provider. For topical use only. Not for ophthalmic, oral or intravaginal use. Usually, apply a thin film of Differin XP Gel, 0.3%, to the entire face and any other affected areas of the skin once daily after washing gently with a non-medicated soap. Avoid application to the areas of skin around the eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. A mild transitory sensation of warmth or slight stinging may occur shortly after the application of Differin XP Gel, 0.3%. Patients should be instructed to minimize sun exposure. Patients may be instructed to use moisturizers to relieve dry skin or irritation.

Therapy should be re-evaluated if therapeutic results are not noticed after 12 weeks of treatment.

Before taking Differin XP Gel,

• Tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially for: eczema.
• You should not use Differin XP Gel if you are allergic to adapalene.
• Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe to use Differin XP Gel if you have other medical conditions.
• It is not known whether Differin XP Gel passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breastfeeding a baby.
• Differin XP Gel is not approved for use by anyone younger (than 12 years old).

Common Differin XP Gel side effects may include:

• Dry, red, or scaly skin;
• The feeling of warmth and mild stinging or burning;
• Peeling skin; or
• Skin pain.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Differin XP Gel: hives, itching; chest pain, difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

It is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. 

Which one is Differin XP Gel or Tazorac gel better for acne?

In a clinical trial comparing Differin XP Gel and Tazorac gel, at the 12-week assessment, both gels had similar improvements in acne severity. The reduction in the number of acne lesions was:

61% decrease using adapalene 0.3% gel
51% decrease using tazarotene 0.1% gel

Therefore Differin XP Gel was 10% more effective at reducing acne lesion numbers than Tazorac gel.

How to apply Differin XP Gel?

Before using Differin XP Gel, gently clean the affected skin with a mild or soapless cleanser and pat dry. Use your fingertips to apply a small amount of medication in a thin layer.

Which side effects of Differin XP Gel are possible?

More common side effects of Differin XP Gel may occur, including:

• Burning sensation or stinging of the skin,
• Dryness and peeling of skin,
• Itching of skin,
• Redness of skin.