Differin XP Gel is a topical medicine similar to vitamin A. It works to decrease acne formation. It helps the skin to renew itself, used to treat severe acne.

Apply Differin XP Gel exactly as directed. Do not apply more or less of it or more often than prescribed by your doctor or stated on the package. Applying more often than recommended will not speed up or improve results, but it may irritate your skin.

Differin XP Gel controls acne but does not cure it. Your acne may get worse during the first few weeks of treatment, and it may take 8 to 12 weeks or longer before you feel the full benefit of Differin XP Gel.

Do not apply Differin XP Gel to skin that is sunburned, broken, or covered with eczema (a skin disease). If you have any of these conditions, do not apply Differin XP Gel until your skin has healed.

To use the Differin XP Gel, follow these steps:

• Differin XP Gel is usually applied once a day at bedtime.
• Gently wash the affected skin with a mild soap or soapless cleanser and pat dry with a soft towel. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleansers, and do not scrub your skin vigorously. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend a gentle cleanser.
• Using the gel, use your fingers to spread a thin film of medication over the affected area.
•  You may feel a slight warmth or sting when applying Differin XP Gel. This feeling is normal and should go away by itself in a short time.

Differin XP Gel may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Before using Differin XP Gel, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eczema. If you are allergic to it, or vitamin A-related drugs; or if you have any other allergies. 

Differin XP Gel may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Weather extremes such as wind or cold may also irritate the skin. Use sunscreen daily and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor immediately if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness. Before using Differin XP Gel, wait until your skin has completely recovered from a sunburn.

Avoid electrolysis, waxing and chemical depilatories for hair removal on the treated areas while using this product.

Since Differin XP Gel is absorbed through the skin and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication.

Differin XP Gel may cause side effects. The following symptoms will likely affect your skin during the first 2-4 weeks of treatment. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• redness
• scaling
• dryness
• burning or stinging
• itching

Protect yourself from sunlight and sunlamps while taking Differin XP Gel, and talk to your doctor about the risks of taking this medication.

How should you store the Differin XP Gel? 

Keep Differin XP Gel in the container it came in, tightly closed and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture.

What other drugs will affect Differin XP Gel?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will affect topically applied  Differin XP Gel. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. 

What are the possible side effects of Differin XP Gel 0.3%?

A brief sensation of warmth or stinging may occur right after applying the Differin XP Gel 0.3%. Skin redness, dryness, itching, scaling, mild burning, or worsening of acne may occur during the first 2-4 weeks of using the medication. These effects usually decrease with continued use.