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Ubayd Ali

Authored by

Ubayd Ali

Superintendent Pharmacist

Registration Number: 2219322

NHS Pharmacist and founding member of HEBA, with years of experience in healthcare across innovative organisations.
Sufyan Tahir

Reviewed by

Sufyan Tahir

Clinical Governance Lead

Registration Number: 2221275

Review Date 19 March 2026
Next Review 19 March 2028
Published on 19 March 2026
Last Update 19 March 2026

Overview

 What it is? 
Differin is a topical acne treatment that contains adapalene 0.1%, a retinoid derived from vitamin A that helps regulate how skin cells renew themselves. By preventing dead skin cells from clogging pores and calming inflammation, it gradually reduces blackheads, whiteheads, and small inflamed spots. 
Both the gel and the cream use the same active ingredient, adapalene. This ingredient speeds up cell turnover, keeps pores clear, and reduces redness. The difference lies in the base: the gel is lighter, while the cream is more moisturising. 
The gel tends to work best for oily or acne‑prone skin, as it absorbs quickly and feels lighter. The cream is usually more comfortable for dry or sensitive skin, offering a gentler, more hydrating texture. Both are suitable for mild to moderate acne. 
Differin is generally used by adults and teenagers aged 12 and over. Younger children would need a clinician’s assessment before using a retinoid. 
 
How it works?
Adapalene encourages the skin to renew itself more evenly, which means dead skin cells shed in a smoother, more controlled way. This reduces congestion inside the pores and lowers the chance of new breakouts forming. It also has anti‑inflammatory effects, so redness and swelling around active spots gradually settle. With consistent use, the skin’s texture becomes clearer and smoother as the pores stay open and less irritated. 
 
 
Differin works gradually and early improvement may appear after a few weeks. The full benefit usually develops over two to three months of consistent nightly use. Stopping too early can limit results.   

Directions

It can be used on the face, chest, and back—anywhere acne commonly appears. It shouldn’t be applied to broken, sunburned, or eczema‑affected skin. 
 
It’s usually applied once at night. Mild dryness or irritation is common at first and usually settles as the skin adjusts. 
 
Differin cream or gel is used once daily in the evening, ideally just before bed. Night‑time use helps minimise irritation because adapalene can make the skin more sensitive to daylight. 

  • Cleanse the affected area with a mild, non‑drying cleanser. 
  • Pat the skin dry and wait until it is completely dry before applying Differin.  
  • Use clean fingertips to apply a thin, even layer over the areas affected by acne. 
  • Wash your hands afterwards. 
  • Keep the product away from the eyes, lips, and mouth. If it accidentally gets into these areas, rinse with warm water straight away. 
  • How Long to Use It 
  • Differin works gradually. Some people notice: 
  • Early improvement may appear after a few weeks. 
  • The full benefit usually develops over two to three months of consistent nightly use. 
    Stopping too early can limit results. 

Side-Effects

These are the effects most people notice early in treatment. They usually settle as the skin adapts over the first few weeks. 

  • Redness — the skin may look flushed or irritated. 
  • Dryness and flaking — adapalene speeds up cell turnover, which can make the skin peel. 
  • Mild burning or stinging — often described as a “sunburn‑like” sensation. 
  • Itching or tenderness — especially in the first 1–2 weeks. 
  • Initial acne flare (“Differin purge”) — breakouts may temporarily worsen around week two as clogged pores clear. 
  • These effects are expected and typically improve with continued use. 

It’s normal to experience some; 

  • Mild redness, warmth, itching, or dryness is common in the first couple of weeks. This is part of your skin adjusting to adapalene and usually settles with continued use. 
  • A temporary flare‑up, often called a “Differin purge,” may appear around week two. Spots can look worse before they improve, but this is expected as the skin adjusts. These effects usually settle with continued use.

Sun Sensitivity 
Adapalene can make the skin more sensitive to UV light. Using sunscreen during the day and avoiding tanning beds helps reduce irritation and sunburn risk. 

Warnings / Who should avoid it 

  • Do NOT use if pregnant and breastfeeding or planning pregnancy. 
  • Avoid waxing, sunbeds, UV light exposure. 
  • Avoid use on sensitive or eczematous skin. 

Patient Information Leaflet

For full guidance on using Differin safely, please read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before starting treatment. 
Differin-Patient information leaflet

Verified customer reviews

Frequently asked questions

  • How do I apply Differin?

    Apply a thin layer of gel evenly over the acne affected areas only once daily at bedtime. Do not apply near or to the eyes, lips, nostrils or other sensitive areas. The gel should be applied to clean, dry skin and take care to wash your hands thoroughly before and after use.

    Do not apply to broken skin.

  • How long before I see results?

    As with all medicines applied to the skin in the treatment of acne, you may not see results for up to eight weeks. It is important to be consistent in your application of this gel in order for it to work properly.

  • When is it not recommended to use Differin?

    Differin is not suitable for those with a hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients. Do not use in pregnancy. Avoid sunlight and UV lamps while using this medicine. Do not use other acne products containing retinoids or benzoyl peroxide while using this medicine or products that are irritating, drying or exfoliating to the skin.

  • How does Differin (Adapalene) work?

    The active ingredient in Differin is adapalene. Adapalene is a third generation topical retinoid. Adapalene works by increasing the total turnover of skin cells. What that means is through various biochemical pathways it can prevent the formation of microcomodone- this is a precursor to a spot acne lesion. In summary Differin can stop the spot forming before it comes to the surface of the skin. Differing helps to unblock the pores and sebaceous glands (glands that make natural oils / sebum for your skin). Adapalene can also behave as an anti-inflammatory to help reduce redness and swelling in the skin.

  • What are the side effects of using Differin?

    Some people can experience stinging sensation, dryness, scaling and burning sensitivity when they first use this medicine. This presents worst during the first week of use and then tends to settle.

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