Differin 0.1%

Differin is a topical acne gel containing adapalene 0.1%, a type of medicine called a retinoid — a derivative of vitamin A. It is used to treat mild to moderate acne, including blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory spots on the face, chest, and back. Unlike antibiotic treatments that target acne-causing bacteria, Differin works by speeding up the natural turnover of skin cells, preventing pores from becoming blocked with dead skin cells and excess oil. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the redness and swelling associated with spots, and can help to fade the dark marks that acne often leaves behind. Differin is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over and requires a short online consultation with one of our clinicians at Access Doctor before it can be prescribed.

Apply Differin gel once a day in the evening before bed. Start by gently washing the affected area with a mild, non-medicated cleanser and patting it completely dry — wait at least 20 to 30 minutes after washing before applying, as damp skin can increase irritation. Apply a thin layer of gel to the entire affected area — not just individual spots — using your fingertip, and rub in gently. Avoid the eyes, lips, nostrils, and the corners of the nose. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying. Follow up with a gentle, oil-free moisturiser to help manage any dryness. Never apply more than a thin layer — using extra gel will not speed up results but will increase irritation.

Yes — this is very common and is known as the purging phase. During the first 2 to 4 weeks of using Differin, your acne may appear to get worse before it gets better. This happens because adapalene speeds up skin cell turnover, which brings spots that were forming beneath the surface to the surface more quickly. This is actually a sign that the treatment is working. It is important not to stop using Differin during this phase. Full improvement is typically seen after 8 to 12 weeks of consistent daily use — if your skin hasn't improved after this time, speak to your clinician at Access Doctor.

The most commonly reported side effects are skin dryness, redness, peeling, and a mild burning or stinging sensation after application — these are particularly common during the first few weeks and usually settle as your skin adjusts to the treatment. Using a gentle, fragrance-free, oil-free moisturiser daily can significantly help to manage these effects. In rare cases, a more serious allergic reaction can occur — signs include significant swelling of the face or lips, hives, or difficulty breathing. If this happens, stop using Differin immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

Yes — adapalene can make your skin significantly more sensitive to sunlight, making it more prone to burning, redness, and irritation even after short periods of sun exposure. While using Differin, always apply a broad-spectrum, oil-free sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every morning, wear protective clothing in strong sunlight, and avoid sunbeds altogether. Applying Differin only in the evening helps to minimise daytime sun sensitivity. If you get sunburnt, stop using Differin until your skin has fully recovered.

Be careful about what you use alongside Differin. Avoid using other products that dry out or irritate the skin at the same time — such as toners with alcohol, harsh exfoliants, products containing AHAs, BHAs, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or other retinoids. If your doctor has prescribed a topical antibiotic (such as clindamycin or erythromycin) or a benzoyl peroxide product to use alongside Differin, apply those in the morning and Differin in the evening — this reduces the risk of irritation and helps both treatments work more effectively.

No — because very little adapalene is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, Differin does not interact with oral medications including the contraceptive pill or antibiotics. There is no need to use additional contraception solely because of Differin.

Differin is not recommended during pregnancy or while trying to conceive. Although retinoids applied to the skin are absorbed in much smaller amounts than oral retinoids, animal studies have shown that high doses of adapalene can cause harm to a developing baby. As a precaution, it is best avoided throughout pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding, it is not known whether adapalene passes into breast milk, so as a precaution you should avoid applying it to the chest area. Always speak to your GP before using any retinoid-containing product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.