Wash your hands before applying this medication. Gently clean the affected skin with a mild or soapless cleanser and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of this medication as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Use your fingertips to apply a small amount of medication (about the size of a pea) to the affected areas of skin.

Use this medication on the skin only. Do not apply to the inner lip area, inside the nose/mouth, or on mucous membranes. Do not apply to cut, scraped, sunburned or eczema-affected skin.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this medication gets into your eyes, flush with large amounts of water. Call your doctor if eye irritation develops. Wash your hands after using the medication to avoid accidentally getting it in your eyes.

The dosage and treatment plan is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

During the first few weeks of using adapalene, your acne might appear worse because the medication is working on pimples forming inside the skin.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Do not use a larger amount or use it more often than recommended. Your skin will not improve any faster, and it will increase the risk of developing redness, peeling, and pain.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Since this drug 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.