Differin XP Gel is a topical medicine used to treat acne. By influencing cell growth and reducing swelling and inflammation, it promotes the skin renewing itself.

Use Differin XP Gel exactly as your doctor has prescribed it for you. Differin XP Gel is for use only on the skin. It is usually applied once daily in the evening. Wash your hands before applying Differin XP Gel. Clean your skin with a mild, non-medicated skin cleanser before applying it to the medicine. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel. Apply a thin layer to the entire face or other affected skin areas. Avoid applying the medicine to the creases of your nose or lips.

Do not apply to open wounds or sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin. Do not apply other skin products unless your doctor has told you to.

While on Differin XP Gel, you may use a moisturizer if your skin becomes dry. 

While on Differin XP Gel for the first three weeks. Your acne may worsen before it gets better. Full improvement should be seen within 12 weeks, especially if you use the medicine daily. Check with your doctor if your acne does not improve within 8 to 12 weeks. You should not stop using Differin XP Gel if your acne seems worse at first unless irritation or other symptoms become severe.

Do not apply any topical product to the same area where you are using Differin XP Gel unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

If your skin becomes too dry or red, discuss with your doctor whether you should continue using Differin XP Gel. Applying creams, lotions, or moisturizers helps lessen these skin problems.

Since your skin may be more prone to sunburn or irritation, use sunscreen or sunblocking lotions regularly with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more. Avoid getting too much sun on treated areas during treatment with Differin XP Gel, and do not use sunlamps. Wear protective clothing against the sun, wind, and cold weather.

Along with its needed effects, a Differin XP Gel may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur, they may need medical attention.

Common Side effects of Differin XP Gel may include:

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

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

How to apply Differin XP Gel?

Usually, apply to the affected area once a day at bedtime after washing. A thin film should be applied, avoiding eyes, lips, angles of the nose, and mucous membranes.

What further precautions are necessary when using Differin XP Gel?

Some cosmetics and soaps may worsen your acne. Moisturizers may be safe to use. When buying cosmetics, moisturizers or other skin care products, check the label for "non-comedogenic" or "non-acnegenic." These products are unlikely to worsen your acne. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which products are safe to use. Remember, acne is not caused by dirt. Cleaning your skin too often or vigorously can irritate and worsen acne.

What are the possible side effects of Differin XP Gel?

The most common side effects of Differin XP Gel may include:

• red, dry or scaly skin,
• a feeling of warmth,
• mild stinging or burning,
• peeling skin, and
• skin pain

Tell the doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away.