Effective, easy-to-apply acne treatment

Differin is an acne treatment that you can get as either a gel or a cream.
We can help you choose the right acne treatment. Just talk to us about your health to get expert advice and tailored treatments. Order Differin online, on subscription.
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.
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.
When you have acne, new skin cells are formed at a high speed but the old cells aren’t 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 – 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 we source info.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
How we source info.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
Have something specific you want to know? Search our info below, or ask our experts a question if you can’t find what you’re looking for.
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.621–624.
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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.
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