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What Causes Shedding Of Skin After Using Adapalene For Acne On Face?
Question: Hi,
I have been using adapalene on and off for the last one year. I am using it for my acne and the hyper pigmentation / melasma on my face. In the last week or so I have notices my skin is looking patchier. There seems to be cleaner skin coming out in places but at the same time some parts look like they are getting darker. Is this normal? Or is it just looking patchier because my skin is shedding. there is no obvious peeling. Should i or should i not continue with adapalene?
What else can I do for an even skin tone.
I am also currently on Gycomet SR to control the acne. The Derm has put me on it since my testosterone levels are high and i can't go on the pill since I am a smoker. Could Glycomet be causing it?
I have been using adapalene on and off for the last one year. I am using it for my acne and the hyper pigmentation / melasma on my face. In the last week or so I have notices my skin is looking patchier. There seems to be cleaner skin coming out in places but at the same time some parts look like they are getting darker. Is this normal? Or is it just looking patchier because my skin is shedding. there is no obvious peeling. Should i or should i not continue with adapalene?
What else can I do for an even skin tone.
I am also currently on Gycomet SR to control the acne. The Derm has put me on it since my testosterone levels are high and i can't go on the pill since I am a smoker. Could Glycomet be causing it?
Brief Answer:
Seems to be due to shedding of skin
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query.
Mechanism of action of Adapalene is to inhibit keratinization in acne. Shedding of skin is less likely to be its mechanism of action.
It is likely that you have developed sensitivity of skin due to adapalene. It caused shedding of skin. The skin that is ready to be shed is usually darker in colour.
It seems to be caused by local application of adapalene rather than glycomet. I would suggest that you discontinue its use. Observe the changes for a few days. If it gets worse, then seek the help of a dermatologist. He may suggest local medicines to take care of the sensitivity (if it is there).
I think that it should get better after its discontinuation.
Hope it helps.
Seems to be due to shedding of skin
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query.
Mechanism of action of Adapalene is to inhibit keratinization in acne. Shedding of skin is less likely to be its mechanism of action.
It is likely that you have developed sensitivity of skin due to adapalene. It caused shedding of skin. The skin that is ready to be shed is usually darker in colour.
It seems to be caused by local application of adapalene rather than glycomet. I would suggest that you discontinue its use. Observe the changes for a few days. If it gets worse, then seek the help of a dermatologist. He may suggest local medicines to take care of the sensitivity (if it is there).
I think that it should get better after its discontinuation.
Hope it helps.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Thanks Doctor.
I wanted to check with you about other causes for Melasma. I read online that it can be a symptom of Addison's disease. I am not sure I have all the symptoms but I do have discoloration on my nails with these funny lines and a pain in my lower abdominal sometimes along with a shooting pain from the hip bone to the knee.
Do you think I am being a hypochondriac or is it a possibility and I should get tested?
I wanted to check with you about other causes for Melasma. I read online that it can be a symptom of Addison's disease. I am not sure I have all the symptoms but I do have discoloration on my nails with these funny lines and a pain in my lower abdominal sometimes along with a shooting pain from the hip bone to the knee.
Do you think I am being a hypochondriac or is it a possibility and I should get tested?
Brief Answer:
May be possible
Detailed Answer:
Hi again
Though Addison's disease is uncommon, still it is possible especially if you have autoimmune conditions or tuberculosis. You can rule it out with serum cortisol levels - a blood test. You can also see an endocrinologist for it.
Lower abdomen pain that shoots from hip bone to knee seems more like uterine pain. You need an ultrasound of the whole abdomen. See a surgeon and a gynecologist for it.
Dr Vaishalee
May be possible
Detailed Answer:
Hi again
Though Addison's disease is uncommon, still it is possible especially if you have autoimmune conditions or tuberculosis. You can rule it out with serum cortisol levels - a blood test. You can also see an endocrinologist for it.
Lower abdomen pain that shoots from hip bone to knee seems more like uterine pain. You need an ultrasound of the whole abdomen. See a surgeon and a gynecologist for it.
Dr Vaishalee
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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