Differin gel is used to treat acne deep in the pores and restores the natural texture and tone of the skin. It can be used for many skin concerns.
What is differin gel?
Differin gel contains 0.1% adapalene which belongs to a class of medications called retinoids. It is used to clear acne and is made from vitamin A which helps to regulate cell turnover. It helps with the shedding of layers of the skin in order to promote new healthy skin production.
Differin has preventative and treatment benefits. It helps with skin cell turnover to keep pores from clogging. It also allows for reduction in redness and underlying inflammation. Additionally it has proven to prevent whiteheads and blackheads. In some research it has also been shown to reduce water loss and protect collagen from degradation.
How to apply differin gel?
A pea size amount of gel is applied to the affected area once a day before bedtime. It should be applied on a dry clean face. Initially it’s recommended to start with every other day application and then gradually increase to daily use.
Usually it is well tolerated, however some individuals may get irritation, dryness, and mild peeling in the initial weeks. Including a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen as part of the skincare routine can ensure minimal side effects.
What is differin gel used for?
Acne treatment
Differin is recommended as treatment for mild, moderate and severe acne. Acne which can be in the form of blackheads, whiteheads and pimples. These can be on the face, chest or back.
Pimples and spots will reduce after several applications but may take 4-8 weeks to notice any improvement. In clinical studies, 87% of patients reported a reduction in acne lesion by week 12 of daily treatment.
Acne prevention
Differin works to prevent future breakouts. It does this by maintaining clear pores and regulating skin cell turnover which prevents the formation of acne lesions.
Anti aging benefits
The benefits of differin go beyond blemish control and are shown to stimulate collagen production. It improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines/wrinkles. Vitamin A is among the most effective substances slowing the aging process, naming it a tool for youthful and radiant skin.
Hyperpigmentation
As differin works by promoting cell turnover it therefore facilitates the fading of pigmented lesions and restoring even complexion.
What is a retinoid?
Topical retinoids play a role in the treatment of acne. They promote the exfoliation of dead skin cells and boost the production of new skin cells. They also offer other benefits like reduced inflammation, unclogging pores, decreasing the appearance of wrinkles and regulating the growth of cells on the skin surface.
Both retinol and adapalene are retinoids, but are they the same?
Retinol is a simple form of vitamin A. It doesn’t remove dead skin cells however looks at neutralising the free radicals in the skin boosting production of elastin and collagen. Retinol reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and enlarged pores. It is only sometimes used to treat acne, however a prescription retinoid is usually preferred.
Adapalene is an another acne medication that is a retinoid but is gentler. It is approved for over the counter use and has stronger concentration in prescription only. Adapalene adjusts the speed of the skin cell to make sure the right process occurs and at the right speed, targeting acne before it even starts.
How does differin gel compare to other acne medication?
There are various acne treatments available some of which are over the counter. The popular ones being benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid products. The both are for mild to moderate acne and can help with removing excess oil and dead skin. The non-prescription medication can take a few months of daily use before results are evident.
Differin Gel is a once daily topical solution that treats deep pores and speeds the healing of acne and prevents new acne from forming. It can restore skin tone, texture and radiance by clearing acne. Differin promotes healthier skin, brighter complexion and reduction of scarring.
In moderate to severe acne prescription medications may be required. They range from oral antibiotics, hormone medicine or retinoids oral medications. There are acne scar treatments which are available if individuals need it.
Consulting a doctor
Individuals who may experience unwanted side effects from this treatment should discuss other possible alternatives with their doctor. For any concerns with skin health, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.
