How to use Adapalene gel; usage and side effects

If you have struggled with acne, you probably would have heard about this gel. Adapalene is a highly effective medication, usually recommended by dermatologists, to treat acne. It is the only OTC (over-the-counter) retinoid treatment approved by FDA (food and drug administration). Also known as Differin gel, Adapalene is a form of retinoid (Vit. A derivative). One of the best treatments for acne available. It slows down the process of excessive growth of sebum inline of pores and desensitized the skin to inflammation. Excessive sebum production is what makes the skin more prone to Acne.

How does Adapalene work?

Acne Vulgaris is a common skin condition that occurs when a hair follicle under the skin gets clogged with oil or dead skin cells. Our skin has millions of sebaceous glands which are connected to the hair follicles. These sebaceous glands produce sebum(oil) to protect our skin barrier and keep it soft and supple. However, when oil and cellular debris plug the pores it results in an outbreak of lesions commonly known as Acne. The Overproduction of sebum by the Hair Follicles can be one of the major reasons for Acne. That is why Oily skin is Most Prone to Acne. , retinoid regulates cell turnover. This helps pores from getting clogged and reduces any redness and underlying inflammation.

As mentioned  above, clogging of hair follicles results in acne, there are certain factors responsible that can mess things up

• Excess Oil (Sebum) Production: The Overproduction of sebum by the Hair Follicles can be one of the major reasons for Acne. That is why Oily skin is Most Prone to Acne.
• Cellular Debris: Dead skin cells when accumulated can clog your hair follicles and prevent oil production. These can also result in Bacterial Infection resulting in cystic acne.
• Hormones and Genetics: If your parents had acne you are more likely to suffer from acne. Moreover, the changes in hormonal levels of estrogen and progesterone can also influence oil production.
• Diet: Have you ever noticed changes in your skin when you hog more on junk, fried, and greasy food? It can not only make your skin look dull and tired but also fuel up ur acne. Several Dairy products and highly processed food can also trigger Acne.
• Stress: most certainly, Stress is also one of the factors responsible for acne, as our body produces cortisol( a stress hormone)  which stimulates the Oil glands leading to breakouts.

Adapalene slows down the process of excessive growth of sebum inline of pores and desensitizes the skin to inflammation. It stimulates new cell turnover which keeps the pores from clogging and targets acne even before it starts. That is why it’s one of the most critically acclaimed treatments for acne.

Acne is a real struggle, but with a customized routine it can clear up with the help of the right treatments and consistency. Read how to build a skincare routine. Here’s How to clear up your Acne-prone skin

How to use Adapalene gel ??

First of all, Wash your hands before beginning any kind of skincare routine. Cleanse your skin with lukewarm water, and a mild cleanser, and pat dry with a clean towel. Take a pea size of adapalene gel, and apply a thin layer all over your face.

Once per day, probably at night. Let it dry and dab it with moisturizer after it dries. Although adapalene is less irritating than tretinoin, still use it twice a week while first starting out. Observe how your skin responds and increases as tolerance builds. Do not use it when using other stripping agents. Try skin cycling to protect your skin barrier.

How long should I use Adapalene ??

When you are using this treatment, it might make your acne worse but there is nothing to worry about it. It takes around 8 to 12 weeks for visible results. You might also feel redness, dryness, and stinging for the first few weeks which will settle in some time. If However, after 12 weeks you are not finding any results then you should consult your doctor.

Adapalene and Differin gel; Are these Different ??

No, adapalene and differin gels are not different. In fact, adapalene is an active ingredient of Differin gel. In fact, adapalene is sold under the name Differin. Differin has 0.1 % adapalene.

Adapalene vs Tretinoin

Trentoin is the most potent form of retinol, retnoic acid( retin a). Used to treat acne and aging Adapalene may be somewhat less effective than tretinoin for combatting acne, but it has fewer bad side effects. Tretinoin is available only by prescription in the U.S., while adapalene is available OTC in its 0.1% gel formulation.

A total of 139 patients completed the efficacy evaluation, and 144 patients completed the safety evaluation. Both adapalene and tretinoin produce dramatic reductions in total, inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts, in the range of 69-74% on average. More than 70% of patients in both groups had complete clearance or marked improvement. In general, irritation was mild, but was both more common and more severe in the tretinoin group vs. the adapalene group. No systemic side effects were seen. Check source 

If you are new to the term Retinol then you are definitely missing out on the pot of gold in skincare Find more here. Retinol for Beginners| A Comprehensive Guide 2022

What are the benefits of adapalene?

Adapalene is approved by the FDA to fight acne, but it’s used off-label for many other skin conditions.

Like other retinoids, adapalene can also help in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by increasing collagen production.

Adapalene also stimulates the production of new cells, which can even out skin color. It can help with pigment disorders such as melasma and dark spots resulting from acne and sun exposure. It’s used to treat patchy hair loss also known as alopecia areata. However, do not use it without consulting the doctor. Adapalene also can remove rough, scaly patches on the skin that come from years of sun exposure.

What are the side effects of adapalene?

Adapalene is less irritating compared to other topical retinoids. The adverse effects of adapalene are usually relatively mild. They include skin irritation, redness, dry skin, itching, burning sensation, and photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight). Although they’re rare, allergic reactions are possible with adapalene, with symptoms that can include eczema, itching, and swelling of the face, lips, and skin around the eyes.

Precautions to take while using adapalene

• First of all, SPF is a must, always wear sunscreen while using Adapalene. Since it can photosensitize, resulting in dry and irritated skin, which may worsen sun exposure and also cause a retinal burn. Therefore, wear sunscreen every day and avoid direct sun exposure. Sunscreen is a must in skincare as such but while using any retinol it should be noted that it becomes extremely important to use, it to avoid stripping of skin.
• Secondly, do not use it in large amounts. Less is more when it comes to retinol. A pea size amount is enough for your whole face. spread a thin layer to get the most benefits.
• Thirdly, This is not to be used in conjunction with other actives like AHA’s/BHA’s or PHA’s and other exfoliants like salicylic, and glycolic acids These can make the skin more irritating. Skip a day or two when using any other actives and adapalene.
• Also, It’s not advisable to use this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As it gets absorbed in the skin and its traces can be passed to breastmilk. Despite all the benefits, Avoid any topical application while you carry as this may increase the risk of birth defects. Talk to the derm for substitutes, they will guide you better.
• Moreover, Mixing with other gels or lotions is not advisable. Do not use other formulations which contain alcohol, astringents, etc. as they can dry out your skin.
• Last but not the least, Protect from light, keep in dark and out of reach from children.

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