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Differin 0.1% Cream/Gel
Highly effective treatment for all acne types including blackheads, whiteheads and cystic acne- Formulated with adapalene, a trusted retinoid ingredient for regulating skin cell turnover
- Prevents clogged pores and breakout, fades acne scarring and promotes smoother, more even skin
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
- Get Differin Cream/Gel online following a simple, discreet consultation
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Differin 0.1% Cream/Gel - Available Online
Differin 0.1% is a prescription-only topical acne treatment, available as either a cream or a gel. This gives you the flexibility to choose the formula that will be best suited to your skin. The cream version is often better for dry or sensitive skin, while the gel may suit oily or acne-prone skin types.
Both products contain a type of retinoid called adapalene as the active ingredient. Adapalene encourages the shedding of dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. With fewer dead skin cells to mix with your naturally occurring oils, your skin is less likely to develop blocked pores, redness, and inflammation often linked to acne. As well as preventing new breakouts and smoothing out your skin, it can clear up existing blackheads, pimples and spots.
With its once-nightly application regime, you may start to notice results in as little as a few weeks, but the full effect can take between two to three months of regular and consistent use. Differin is ideal for treating blackheads, whiteheads, and all types of acne on your face, chest or back. Although your skin might feel a little sore or dry when you first start using it, this usually settles as your skin adjusts.
If you’re looking for a proven acne treatment to help improve your skin over time, Differin 0.1% could be a great option for you. Start your free consultation today to begin your journey to clear skin.
Maximums per order:
- 3
- 3
Yes
Differin 0.1% Cream/Gel Summary
About Differin 0.1% Cream/Gel
Differin 0.1% is available in both a cream and a gel formulation. They both contain the same active ingredient, the retinoid adapalene. However, who they’re best for can be slightly different. The cream is often better for people with dry or sensitive skin as it has a more moisturising texture, while the gel may be better for people with oily or acne-prone skin because its formula is lighter.
How Does Differin 0.1% Cream/Gel Work?
Differin 0.1% Cream and Gel both contain a type of retinoid called adapalene. Adapalene works by reducing inflammation and clearing blocked pores. Because it encourages the shedding of dead skin cells, it can also help to prevent new spots, blackheads and pimples from forming. Acne is typically caused by the combination of sebum (or oil) with dead skin cells. This combination blocks the pores which then form into angry bumps, or pimples. Differin also reduces the redness and swelling associated with acne, leading to clearer and calmer skin.
How to use Differin
You should use Differin at night before heading to bed, unless your prescriber tells you otherwise. Before use, clean the affected area thoroughly using a mild cleanser. Make sure the skin is completely dry before applying Differin. Using your fingertips, apply a thin layer of Differin to the affected area and rub in gently. Always remember to wash your hands afterwards. Avoid getting product in your eyes or mouth. If this happens, immediately wash with warm water.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Differin is adapalene, at a strength of 0.1% w/w. This is the ingredient that makes Differin regulate cell turnover. It also contains inactive ingredients to help the product work effectively. These ingredients are carbomer 934P, macrogol-20 methyl, glucose sesquistearate, glycerol (E422), natural squalane, methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218), propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216), disodium edetate, methyl glucose sesquistearate, phenoxyethanol, cyclomethicone, sodium hydroxide and purified water.
Side Effects
As with all medicines, Differin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. The most common side effects usually happen where you’ve applied the cream or gel. You may notice dry skin, irritation of your skin, a burning sensation or skin redness. Your skin may also itch or peel, and sometimes your acne could get worse. If you notice any signs of severe allergic reaction, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention. These signs include rash, itching, hives, dizziness, and swelling of the face, lips or throat, making breathing or swallowing harder than usual.
See our Differin side effects page for more information, and make sure to read the Patient Information Leaflet enclosed with your medicines for a full list of side effects before applying.
It is usually well-tolerated and gets positive ratings from patients who review Differin.
Warnings
If you have eczema, Differin will not be right for you. Speak to a member of our clinical team for alternative options. You also shouldn’t use Differin on sunburn, or on broken skin. While using Differin, you’ll need to avoid strong sunlight and sunbeds. Either avoid being outside in direct sunlight entirely, wear protective clothing, or use sunscreen on the treatment area.
If you take any other medicines, let your prescriber know. You can use Differin while being treated with other acne products containing benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin or clindamycin, but you’ll need to use these in the morning and Differin at night.
If there’s anything you’re unsure about, reach out to a member of our clinical team who will be happy to help.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Differin should not be used during pregnancy. If you fall pregnant while using Differin, the treatment must be discontinued, and you should inform your doctor as soon as possible for a further follow-up.
Differin 0.1% Cream/Gel reviews
How Does Differin 0.1% Help Treat Acne?
Differin 0.1% helps treat acne because it contains a retinoid called adapalene. This active ingredient targets the root cause of your breakouts by working deep in your skin to encourage the shedding of dead skin cells, and prevent your pores from becoming blocked. This helps stop blackheads and spots from forming. It also calms inflammation, which can reduce redness, swelling and tenderness linked to acne. After a while of use, Differin can clear up your skin and stop new spots from appearing.
Differin is easy to use, with application being once a day before bedtime, and it works gradually to improve your skin’s texture. With regular use over several weeks, you should see fewer breakouts and smoother skin.
Is Differin Suitable For All Types Of Acne?
Differin can work for all types of acne. It’s a highly effective treatment for all acne types, including blackheads, whiteheads and cystic acne. If you’re not sure whether Differin will be suitable for your acne, complete a quick and easy consultation, and a member of our clinical team will get in touch to let you know.
How Often Should Differin 0.1% Cream/Gel Be Applied?
You should apply Differin once a day, just before going to bed. Using it more often won’t make it work faster and can actually make your skin more irritated. If you experience skin irritation after using Differin, speak to your prescriber. They may recommend that you use it less often, or even stop treatment temporarily, until your new symptoms go away.
How Long Does It Take To See Results?
Everyone’s skin is different, but most people see some results within a few weeks of using Differin. It can often take between two to three months to see the full effect of treatment, and some people find that their skin gets worse before it gets better. This is known as a purge, and is your skin getting used to the treatment - it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. It’s important to keep using Differin as advised even if this does happen. Your prescriber will ask to see you after you’ve used Differin for three months, to check how your acne is improving.
Can Differin 0.1% Be Used With Other Acne Treatments?
You can use Differin at the same time as using other acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin or clindamycin. If you do, you’ll need to make sure you use the other treatment in the morning and the Differin at night time, so there’s enough time between the two treatments for each to work effectively without interacting with each other.
Is It Safe To Be Used If I’m Pregnant Or Breastfeeding?
You shouldn’t use Differin if you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant. If you get pregnant when using it, you should stop immediately and speak to your healthcare team, who can provide personalised advice. It’s okay to use Differin while breastfeeding as long as you avoid using it on the chest area. This prevents it from coming into contact with your baby.
How Should Differin 0.1% Be Incorporated Into My Skincare Routine?
You should slot Differin 0.1% Cream or Gel into your evening skincare routine, after cleansing. Gently wash your skin using a mild, non-irritating cleanser. Make sure you dry the area thoroughly before applying a thin layer of Differin and rubbing it in. If you use other acne treatments, you should use those in the morning. Differin has a drying effect on the skin, so you shouldn’t use other products that can cause drying - make sure you use a non-pore-clogging moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated.
Can I Use Differin On Any Other Areas Of My Body?
You can use Differin on your face, chest or back, which are the most common areas impacted by acne. Never use it on broken skin, areas that have been sunburnt, or other sensitive areas like around your eyes, mouth or inside your nose. If you’re breastfeeding, you should avoid using Differin on your chest, to get rid of the risk of contact with your child. If you want to use it elsewhere on your body, such as your arms or shoulders, speak to your prescriber beforehand to check if it’s suitable.
Will Differin Improve My Acne Scars?
Differin may indirectly help improve your acne scarring. Its main function is to treat active acne symptoms, including pimples and blackheads. Differin helps reduce inflammation and stops new breakouts from forming, which clears your skin. It can’t treat deep acne scarring, but it may have a beneficial effect on your skin’s overall texture after a while of use. By preventing new breakouts, it can help stop new scars from forming. However, if you’re worried about acne scars, check out our range of scarring treatments and see which may be best for you with a quick and easy online consultation.
How Can I Buy Differin 0.1% Acne Treatment?
To get Differin 0.1% Acne Treatment from The Independent Pharmacy, you’ll first have to go through a fast and easy online consultation. A member of our UK-based licensed team will review this and determine if Differin is the right product for your needs. If approved, we’ll deliver it quickly and discreetly directly to your door, with next-day delivery available if you’re super keen to get started.
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Andy is a co-founder and the Superintendent Pharmacist and Director at The Independent Pharmacy.
Dan is an experienced pharmacist having spent time working in both primary and secondary care. He currently supports our clinical team by providing robust clinical governance review of our internal processes and information.