Did you know there is now a prescription strength retinoid available over the counter to treat acne? Acne beauties everywhere can now rejoice! Adapalene is the first Food and Drug Administration approved retinoid, specifically created to target acne skin conditions. One of the most popular products containing adapalene is the Differin gel!

What is Differin gel good for?

Launched in 2017, Differin contains 0.1% adapalene and is used to treat acne vulgaris by working behind the scenes to help prevent acne from forming. Acne can be caused by a multitude of factors including high oil production, bacteria formation on the skin surface, abnormal formation of keratin that can clog up pores, or even a combination of all three factors. The point is, acne happens! And when it does, thankfully beauty, science and technology have found many ways to treat the different varieties of acne. Formulated specifically with the adapalene form of retinoid, Differin gel approaches acne through the form of prevention. The retinoid works deep under the skin surface to tackle those acne formations before they have a chance to make an appearance on your skin.

What is Adapalene?

Adapalene is a form of vitamin A that has been shown to slow the process of excessive growth of microcomedones which is formed when hair follicles and pores are blocked by sebum, dead skin cells and other dirt and debris on the skin surface. These clogged pores cause irritation, inflammation and ultimately create what we know as acne, pimples and zits. This first of its kind retinoid is a prescription strength formula that has been used to treat acne for over 20 years.

Advantages of Differin

Manufactured by Gladerma Laboratories LP, Differin comes in a topical ointment and is one of the only dermatologist developed, over the counter retinoids, formulated specifically to treat acne conditions. Other benefits to using Differin include improvements in dark spots and hyperpigmentation from acne scarring, improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and helps reduce the formation of whiteheads and blackheads. Similar to other retinoids, Differin not only targets acne conditions, but also has the benefits of anti-aging and skin smoothing.

How to use Differin

Now of course, this isn’t a product that can work miracles overnight. Consistent usage and patience is the key to this treatment. You may get the same annoying side effects as per all retinoids such as skin irritation and dryness. It may also cause some skin sensitivities, so make sure to slather on your SPF while using this product. But for those who are suffering from any form of acne, this powerful ointment can work wonders on your skin, helping you to achieve the smooth, glowing, glass skin-like complexion beauties dream about.

---

[ Amazon Customer Review ]

“Be patient, it works!”

don't stop when it seems to be getting worse, keep going and it will help you!!

“Stick with it! It’s worth it!”

By week 10, most of my acne had greatly reduced, my pores seemed smaller, and the dry skin around my mouth and nose had resolved.

“Takes a long time, but worth the wait.”

I considered quitting several times because my skin definitely got worse before it got better, but now I’m glad that I stuck with it.

---

Adapalene is still quite new to the beauty market with the brand Differin as a top producer of this acne fighting retinoid. But there are a few other brands making their mark on the scene with their own formulations of adapalene.