Differin 0.1% Gel

Differin is used to treat mild to moderate acne (see our Acne guide for more help) and help ‘loosen’ the top layers of your skin which prevents your pores clogging up with sebum and causing acne spots. It is designed to be used daily at night and with consistent use most people will see benefits within a few weeks- although we recommend using for a minimum of 3 months. It can be combined with antibiotics or used alone. It can be used on Acne affecting the face, chest or back. Choosing between the cream and gel version is a matter of preference- those with very oily skin may prefer the gel as it dries a bit quicker whereas those with drier skin may prefer the cream as it may act as a moisturiser. Adapalene also has collagen-stimulating and anti-ageing properties. The cream form may be preferred when used for anti-ageing purposes in more mature skin, which tends to be more dehydrated and more sensitive to drying skin products. Adapalene may reduce the severity of existing scarring and prevent future scarring.

Differin contains adapalene 0.1% which is a third-generation retinoid (vitamin A derivative) and is the least irritated of the prescription retinoids. Like all retinoids, they work at the cellular level by binding to receptors in the skin surface where they regulate cell-turnover (increase natural exfoliation), reduce hyperkeratinisation (stop your skin cells sticking together) and therefore stop the formation of microcomedones (blackheads and whiteheads).

• Differin should be applied once in the evening to the entire affected areas of Acne.

• Ideally, apply after cleansing and when the skin is dry.

• A thin film of gel should be applied, with the fingertips, avoiding the eyes and lips- if applying on the face, start with a pea-sized amount.

• When you first start using Differin we suggest you use it on alternate days to start with for the first week to reduce the risk of irritation. Signs of improvement may be seen after 1 week but as with all acne treatments they can take up to 2-3months to have maximum effect.

• It is normal for the skin to ‘purge’ or slightly react when first using Differin within the first few days to weeks- this will feel like mild sunburn and should settle over time. Applying a moisturiser, reducing the frequency of application or having a temporary break may help with this. If you are concerned, please seek professional medical advice.

•    Differin can have a drying and irritating effect

•    Differin should not be applied to damaged skin, either broken (cuts or abrasions), sunburn or eczema.

•    Differin should not come into contact with the eyes, lips, mouth, nostrils or mucous membranes. If product enters the eye, wash immediately with warm water.

•    In a small amount of people Differin may cause a type of sensitivity reaction- if you suspect this is happening then stop using the product and seek urgent medical attention. Differin contains propylene glycol (E1520) which may cause skin irritation.

•    Excessive exposure to sunlight or UV radiation should be avoided- beware of using sunbeds or going on holiday abroad to sunnier destinations.

•    Differin is not for use in severe forms of acne where there may be deep nodules, cysts or severe scarring- please consult your GP if you have very severe acne.

Differin should not be used in pregnancy, if planning pregnancy or if breastfeeding as it can cause harm to an unborn child. It is only safe to use by women who are using effective contraception measures. If you become pregnant while taking this drug, treatment should be discontinued immediately, and you should contact your G.P.

Active Ingredients: Adapalene 0.1%Other Ingredients: Carbomer 940, Propylene Glycol (E1520), Poloxamer 182, Disodium Edetate, Methyl Parahydroxybenzoate (E218), Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Purified Water

Shelf Life: 3 years

All medications and products can potentially cause side effects- If they are severe, or are mild and do not improve, then you should speak to your pharmacist or doctor immediately.

It is common for up to 10% of people to experience adverse skin reactions to Differin. This normally settles after you have used it for a few weeks. If you experience any mild side effects it is recommended to use a moisturiser, reduce the frequency of application to every other day or temporarily discontinue using Differin until the effects have settled.


Common Side effects (affecting 1%- 10% of people): Dry skin, skin irritation, skin burning sensation, erythema (redness)
Uncommon Side effects (affecting 0.1%-1% of people): Dermatitis contact, skin discomfort, sunburn, pruritus, skin exfoliation