Itching and Dryness After Differin and Pevisone Acne Treatment?

I'm using Differin and Pevisone on my face, and suffer from itchiness and more pimples. Is this normal? I have dry face and a oily T-zone. I had very small pimples appearing on my cheeks and forehead, they weren't very obvious but if I applied make up they used to show. So I went to my dermatologist who prescribed Differin to be used at night and apply it on all my face, and then Pevisone to be used on the following day a.m. time.

I used it for two days. The first day is okay. But now I see some areas either dry or exfoliating, I can't tell. My cheeks has been itching and more pimples are showing. I don't know should I continue with the medication or stop? In case of itching how can I make my face feel better? To be precise, I used foundation in the morning and used Pevisone once I came back from work.

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cheeks Differin itchy

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3 Doctor Answers | Asked by mair in AD

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Differin and other retinoids tricky but effective.

Sounds like you may falling into one or both of the traps I warn all patients about when I prescribe a topical retinoid. The two key tricks are: if you wash your face before applying, wait at least 45 minutes to an hour after washing. use LESS than a pea sized amount for your ENTIRE face. spread the pea on all fingertips before applying evenly. Do not use an amount like you would for a moisturizer. Following these tips may help you tolerate it better with less... more

Irritation from topical retinoid

It is not uncommon for people with sensitive skin not to tolerate topical prescription strength retinoid. Over time, your skin should be 'retinized' and get acclimated. Ask for a prescription for the new Differin 0.1% lotion and you may have an easier time.

Differin side effects - sensitive skin

Your skin is probably a little sensitive but should get acclimated to the Differin. A recent Meta-Analysis by Steve Feldman published in Drugs and Dermtology showed that a worsening around the third week was not "the acne coming out" as is so often heard, especially by non-dermatologists, but instead is a result of an irritant dermatitis. This irritant dermatitis usually diminishes about the fourth week. It also sounds like you have a bit of seborrheic dermatitis. This is... more