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Differin is an acne treatment that you can get as either a gel or a cream.
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Acne: Here are some other options.
Combination treatment that comes in two doses. Easy to use, once a day application.
Effective antibiotic cream that can also help with scarring.
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please talk to a doctor.
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 isnโt used to treat severe acne.
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 itโs specifically designed for acne.
When you have acne, new skin cells are formed at a high speed but the old cells arenโt destroyed. These old cells, sebum and bacteria then lead to clogged pores. Adapalene controls the production of excess new skin cells and prevents clogging of pores. This helps 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.
Differin is available in two forms โ gel and cream. The active ingredient in both forms is adapalene and 1g of both the gel and cream contain 1mg of adapalene. So theyโre 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 itโs less likely to cause irritation.
Adapalene: MedlinePlus Drug Information. [Accessed 23 Sep. 2021].
A review of the use of adapalene for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management, 3(4), pp.621โ624.
You should use Differin exactly as advised by your doctor.
You should continue using Differin until your acne improves. If it doesnโt 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 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 12 weeks 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 itโs effective.
If you forget to apply Differin at the right time donโt worry, it shouldnโt affect how well it works long-term. Just apply the recommended amount as soon as you remember โ and donโt try to use more Differin in order to make up for it. Using too much Differin wonโt heal your acne any quicker, and it might cause you some skin irritation.
Always use the treatment as advised by your doctor.
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