DIFFERIN contains the active substance adapalene that belongs to a group of medicines called retinoids. DIFFERIN is used for the treatment of acne (blackheads, whiteheads and pimples) of the face, chest or back. The product acts against the abnormal skin processes associated with acne.

Adapalene is the active ingredient in Differin® Gel. It's a multi-benefit, dermatologist-recommended retinoid specifically used for clearing acne. Adapalene treats acne deep in the pores at the source, prevents new acne from forming and, as a result of reduced acne, restores your skin's natural texture and tone.

Levin says topical retinoids, such as Differin, come from vitamin A and help normalize skin cell turnover, which also prevents clogged pores and acne. It's also the same ingredient that helps improve skin discoloration, texture and tone.

If you have an active acne breakout, products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are probably better treatments than Differin Gel. In contrast, Differin Gel helps protect against future acne breakouts. So, if you're dealing with an active pimple, you should hold off on Differin Gel.

The most common side effects of Differin Unusual dryness, flakiness, and/or scaling. Skin redness (erythema) - more rarely with a rash. Sensitivity to sunlight (and artificial UV light) Excessive exfoliation (when applied too liberally)

Common side effects of Differin Gel include a brief sensation of warmth, stinging, tingling, or irritation immediately after applying the medication. Skin redness, dryness, itching, scaling, mild burning, or worsening of acne may occur during the first 2-4 weeks of using Differin Gel.

Benefits of Differin® Gel for acne

• The only FDA-approved retinoid for over-the-counter use.
• Prescription-strength without the prescription.
• A once-a-day topical acne solution.
• Treats the initial source of acne - deep in your pores.
• Speeds the healing of acne.
• Prevents new acne from forming.

You should see a significant difference around the 12-week mark – clinical studies reported up to 87% acne reduction. Like any health regimen, skipping a day could lead to a setback. Continue using Differin® Gel every day, even after your skin looks clearer, for increased reduction.

The most common side effects of Differin

• Unpleasant sensations (burning, stinging, tingling, and/or itchiness)
• Unusual dryness, flakiness, and/or scaling.
• Skin redness (erythema) - more rarely with a rash.
• Sensitivity to sunlight (and artificial UV light)
• Excessive exfoliation (when applied too liberally)

Most of our experts highlighted Differin Gel's benefits, which include increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen to help mild scarring and pigment go away over time. They advised using it only a few times a week to start and increasing the frequency to once daily as necessary.

Differin Gel contains 0.1% adapalene, the “strongest OTC retinoid without a prescription,” said Gmyrek, and can help prevent breakouts, treat acne and improve acne scarring and hyperpigmentation.

Initially, you should use the medicine every other night for the first two or three weeks. If you are tolerating the medicine OK then move up to every night. If you are getting too much irritation, then use it every 3rd night. Your goal is to eventually work up to using Differin every night.

How often should I use Differin® Gel? Differin® Gel should be used only once daily and integrated as an important step into your morning or evening skincare routine. Try to apply the product at the same time each day.

Can irritate skin: Studies have found that a common side effect is sensitivity to sunlight. May make acne worse: Some users report an increase in acne when starting out with Differin Gel. May also cause dry skin: Other users find that their skin became dry with regular use.

Irritant contact dermatitis: In rare occasions, Differin can actually irritate the treated skin, making things worse. This will result in lasting swelling and irritation that will slowly fade when the application is ceased (or suitably reduced).

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