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 in the 11-30 age group are more prone to acne, but it can affect anyone.

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

Differin is to be applied on the affected area of skin at night before bed. Avoid eyes and lips while applying.

It isn’t used to treat severe acne.

How does Differin work?

Adapalene is the active ingredient in Differin. 1 gram of Differin contains 1mg 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 two forms – gel and cream. The active ingredient in both forms is adapalene and 1g of both the gel and cream contain 1mg of adapalene. So they’re both the same dose.

You can use gel or cream depending on your skin type. If you have oily skin the gel form is more suitable as it dries up quickly. If you have sensitive skin, the cream might be better as it’s less likely to cause irritation.

How to use Differin

You should use Differin exactly as advised by your doctor.

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

You should continue using Differin until your acne improves. If it doesn’t improve after three months of using Differin, 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?

How long Differin takes to work varies from person to person due to different skin types and the severity of acne. You may see a noticeable difference in two weeks. But it may take eight to twelve weeks ^[1] before you feel the full benefits of Differin.

If you use Differin for a continuous period of three months it is advisable to visit your doctor to check that it’s effective.

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 try to 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.