Differin

What is Differin?

Acne is a skin condition where the pores get clogged by hair, sebum (an oily substance), bacteria and dead skin cells. People aged 11-30 are more prone to it, but it can affect anyone.

Differin is a treatment for acne you can get as a gel or a cream. It can be used to treat mild to moderate acne on your face, chest and back. Pimples or rashes with or without pus and blackheads are the types of acne that can be treated with Differin.

Apply Differin on the affected areas at night before bed, taking care to avoid your eyes and lips.

It isn’t used to treat severe acne.

How does Differin work?

Adapalene is the active ingredient in Differin. 1 gram of Differin contains 1 mg of adapalene. Adapalene is a retinoid, which means it works a bit like Vitamin A in the body, but it’s specifically designed for acne.

Acne is often caused by new skin cells being formed at a higher rate than the old ones are destroyed. The buildup of these old cells, plus sebum and bacteria, can then lead to clogged pores. Adapalene promotes cell turnover and prevents clogging of pores. This helps new skin cells to form, the sebaceous cells to excrete the excess sebum and avoids spots from forming. Adapalene has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps in reducing soreness and irritation of the affected area.

Differin works only on the surface of the skin as only very small amounts are absorbed.

What forms of Differin are there?

Differin is available in a few different forms, including a gel, skin patches and a foaming cleanser. The active ingredient in the gel is adapalene, whereas the patches contain salicylic acid and the foaming cleanser contains benzoyl peroxide.

To find out what version of Differin might be best for you, chat to a doctor about your health and needs.

How to use Differin Gel

You should use Differin Gel exactly as advised by your doctor.

• It’s for external use only.
• Apply it to your affected area(s) of skin at night before going to bed.
• Apply on washed, clean and dry skin.
• Apply a thin film of the gel, with your fingertips, to the affected area and rub gently.
• Wash your hands after application.

You should keep using Differin until your acne improves. If it hasn’t gotten better after three months, let us know.

If you accidentally swallow Differin, seek medical advice. If you get the medicine in your eyes, wash them with plenty of warm water.

How long does it take Differin to work?

The length of time it takes Differin to work will likely depend on your skin type, the extent of your symptoms, and your individual response to the treatment. So you may see a noticeable difference in two weeks, or it could take eight to twelve weeks^[1] before you see the full benefits of Differin.

If you use Differin for a continuous period of three months and don’t see a difference, visit your doctor to check it’s right for you.

What should I do if I make a mistake when using Differin?

If you forget to apply Differin at the right time don’t worry, it shouldn’t affect how well it works long-term. Just apply the recommended amount as soon as you remember — and don’t use more Differin in order to make up for it. Using too much Differin won’t heal your acne any quicker, and it might cause you some skin irritation.

Always use the treatment as advised by your doctor.