Reviewed by Virginia Chachati MPharm
(2013, University College London)
GPhC Registration number: 2087654
Information last reviewed 10/06/2021
Differin is an acne treatment that contains the active ingredient adapalene. It helps reduce skin redness, inflammation and discomfort. Differin is available as a cream or gel.
Differin is used to treat acne, a skin condition where spots and pimples appear on the skin.
The active ingredient in Differin, adapalene, works similarly to vitamin A to regenerate the skin’s surface. As a result, it helps skin cells heal faster and reduces inflammation. Adapalene also stops new spots from forming by preventing your pores from getting clogged with sebum.
Dose |
Small amount, roughly the size of a pea |
Type of medicine |
Topical retinoid |
Mechanism |
Regulates cell turnover, keeping pores clear |
Available Size |
45g tube |
Available Strengths |
0.1% only |
Available Forms |
Cream, gel |
Active Ingredient |
Adapalene |
Price |
From £23.97 per tube |
Side Effects |
Can include dry skin, burning, redness or irritation of the skin |
The active ingredient in Differin cream or gel is adapalene.
You should apply Differin to clean skin at night before you go to bed. Gently wash and dry your skin and then apply a thin layer of Differin to the affected area. Wash your hands after using Differin.
The active ingredient in Differin is 0.1% adapalene. You can order a 45 g tube of Differin cream or gel from Dr Felix.
You can use Differin on your face, chest or back.
If you plan to use an additional acne treatment alongside Differin, you should speak to your doctor first to ensure it's suitable. You can use acne treatments that contain benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin or clindamycin alongside Differin at separate times of the day. For example, you can use Differin at night and a different acne treatment in the morning.
Common side effects that you may experience while using Differin are:
Less common side effects can include:
If you do experience side effects, speak to your doctor for advice.
You should not use Differin if:
You should not use Differin at the same time as other acne treatments. Use Differin at night and other acne treatments during the day. Speak to your doctor for advice if you are taking or using other medicines at the same time as Differin.
You should not use Differin if you are pregnant or planning a baby. If you discover you are pregnant while using Differin, stop the treatment right away and speak to your doctor for advice.
Differin gel and Differin cream work in the same way. Generally, gels absorb faster than creams and may be more suitable for oily skin.
Lifestyle changes can improve the overall health of your skin and help reduce your acne. Getting plenty of sleep can help reduce stress levels and acne breakouts. Try cutting down on sugar and drinking plenty of water. Wear high SPF sun protection to protect your skin and eat omega-3 rich foods which are naturally anti-inflammatory. Exercising daily and cleansing your skin twice a day can help boost your skin’s health.
You can use Differin to reduce the appearance of scars as it helps to even out the surface of the skin. In addition, using Differin will reduce the likelihood of new acne scars after spots heal.
There is evidence to show that adapalene creams such as Differin can help reduce skin redness associated with rosacea. So if you get spots or pimples during a breakout of rosacea, Differin may be ideal to use.
Alternative acne treatments available from Dr Felix include Duac once daily gel, Zineryt, Epiduo gel, Treclin, Aknemycin plus, Tetralysal (lymecycline) capsules and oxytetracycline tablets.
You can apply makeup as usual while using Differin. However, you should use non-comedogenic cosmetics to avoid clogging your pores so you can get the best out of your acne treatment.
Prices from:
We’re a fully regulated pharmacy, with qualified doctors and happy customers
This is my second purchase and it’s always easy and quick to get what you need - will continue to use
Charlie
Quick and discreet
Amazing service will definitely be using again!!
Lucie