Hello. Thank you for writing to us at healthcaremagic The topical gel you have been asked to use contains a topical retinoid i.e adapalene gel. It is an excellent antiacne drug, however, during the early part of therapy it may cause previously deep seated comedones to come up to surface because of its epidermal renewal property, whereby the basal epidermal cells proliferate rapidly and start to replace the layers above, with newer cells. Flare is actually a good sign and it means that the topical medication is working. If I was the treating doctor I would have suggested you to continue with adapalene, as this flare is going to subside with continued treatment within the next 2 weeks or so. I would also have added a topical antibacterial antiacne gel i.e either clindamycin Or benzoyl peroxide for day time use, only as a spot treatment for active inflammatory acne. A course of an oral antibiotic e.g either azithromycin or doxycycline may also be considered for 2-4 weeks to take control of the inflammatory flare. I suggest you to seek another appointment with your treating dermatologist regarding the flare so that it can be addressed properly. Regards