Differin

Differin 0.1% gel is a topical acne treatment that helps reduce inflammation and clear out pores. It can be used on the face, chest, or back to treat blackheads, spots, and pimples.

Differin can be prescribed for the treatment of mild to moderate acne. It can significantly improve the overall appearance of the skin in as little as 8 weeks.

Differin helps treat acne by stopping pores from getting clogged. It also decreases skin oiliness and swelling.

The active ingredient of Differin is adapalene, a type of vitamin A derivative called a retinoid. Retinoids work by speeding up cell turnover; this means old skin cells are shed more quickly. They also help control the skin"s sebum (oil) production.

These effects help to keep pores clear and reduce blackheads and whiteheads. It also reduces the inflammation and pain caused by acne.

Improvement in acne is usually seen within several weeks of use. Irritation or dryness during the initial few weeks is common. Don’t be concerned if your skin appears worse at the start. This is a sign that the product is working and you should begin to see improvement over the next 4-6 weeks.

If your acne has not improved after 8 weeks of using Differin, talk to your doctor.

Topical adapalene is very effective and well-tolerated in the treatment of mild to moderate acne. This has been demonstrated in various clinical trials.

A review of adapalene trials showed that both the gel and cream formulations significantly reduced the number of skin lesions compared to a placebo. They were found to be as effective as tretinoin in treating acne, but with fewer side effects.

In a 12-week study, 96.3% of patients saw an improvement in their skin, while about two-thirds experienced over 75% improvement in their acne symptoms.

Adapalene should be used consistently to see its full benefits and after 3 months, a doctor should review how well the treatment is working.

Most adults with mild to moderate acne can safely use this treatment.

However, you should not use Differin if you:

• are pregnant or planning a pregnancy
• are allergic to adapalene or any of the other ingredients in Differin
• have eczema or have cuts, scrapes, or sunburn in the treatment area

Differin is generally considered safe to use while breastfeeding, but you should not apply it to the chest area to prevent any potential exposure to your child.

To be prescribed Differin from 121doc, you must be over 18 years old.

Apply Differin once a day in the evening before going to bed. To use the treatment correctly, follow these instructions:

1. Rinse the area with water and pat it dry.
2. Apply a thin, pea-sized amount of gel over the entire affected area before bedtime.
3. Avoid the eyes, lips, nostrils, and other sensitive areas.
4. Wash your hands afterwards.
5. Avoid exposure to sunlight and artificial UV light. If this is not possible, use sunscreen.

Follow with a gentle, lightweight moisturiser to help prevent dryness and irritation. Do not wax or use exfoliating acids while on this treatment.

If you forget to use Differin (Adapalene), apply it the next evening at the regular time. Do not use a double amount to make up for a missed dose, as this may cause irritation.

Differin gel can cause some side effects, particularly in the first few weeks of use. They generally occur in the area where the product has been applied. Common side effects of Differin gel and cream include:

• dry skin
• skin irritation
• burning or stinging sensation
• redness (erythema)

This treatment can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. It is best to minimise sun exposure during the treatment. Use protective clothing and do not forget to apply SPF 50 daily to prevent sunburn.

Refer to the patient information leaflet for a complete list of possible side effects.

Some users experience temporary worsening of their acne (often referred to as purging) during the initial weeks of use. This is because adapalene increases skin cell turnover, which can bring clogged material to the surface. This normally settles once the skin gets used to the product. If the irritation is severe or continues, contact your doctor.

Both the gel and cream contain 0.1% adapalene as their active ingredient, so they work in the same way. The difference is in their formulation and texture. The cream is thicker and more moisturising and is therefore better for dry and more sensitive skin. The gel is lighter and faster-absorbing, so it’s more suitable for oily and combination skin.

Your doctor can recommend the best formulation for you, based on your skin type and how well you tolerate the treatment.

Yes, some people use Differin in combination with another acne treatment, like clindamycin or benzoyl peroxide. However, you should not use them at the same time as Differin. Always consult your doctor first to make sure the products you are using are safe to use alongside Differin.

You can explore all our acne treatment options here.

Yes, you can wear makeup with Differin, but you should only apply it after your moisturiser has fully absorbed. Use non-comedogenic products (those not containing pore-clogging ingredients) and remove makeup gently every evening. If your skin becomes flaky or irritated, try lighter formulas or take a break from using makeup for a while.

No, Differin is not available without a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Safety is our number one priority at 121doc, and our doctors will only prescribe treatment if you meet the criteria in your online consultation.

A prescription from a trusted healthcare provider like 121doc ensures:

• safety during treatment
• effective results
• monitoring of side effects