Differin Side Effects

Generic name: adapalene topical

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 13, 2025.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Differin Side Effects associated with adapalene topical. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically 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 side effects

- especially during the first month of use

• 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 side effects

- more common during the first month of use

• worsening of acne

For healthcare professionals

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

Dermatologic adverse events

• 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)
• Does doxycycline work for acne?
• Can Tazorac and Differin be used together?

Further information

Differin side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer