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Differin (Adapalene)

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Differin 0.1% adapalene gel 45g
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Patient Reviews: How Differin (Adapalene) Has Made a Difference

Treatment Information

Table of contents:

What is Differin cream or gel used for?

Differin (adapalene) is a topical treatment for acne which is available as a cream or gel. Both formulations contain 0.1% adapalene - a retinoid derived from vitamin A.

Differin gel is a smooth, opaque, white topical gel, while Differin cream is a glossy, white cream. Both are used in the same way and contain the same active ingredient.

You can order Differin gel or cream in either 45g or 90g tubes from Prescription Doctor's Uk pharmacy. We offer fast and discreet delivery on all orders dispatched from our pharmacy.

What is acne?

Acne is a skin condition that causes spots on the skin, especially around the face. It commonly affects teenagers during puberty, although some adults do experience breakouts of acne.

The development of acne begins when a pore in the skin becomes blocked with dead skin cells and keratin - the material which hair and nails are made of.

Sebum, which is an oily substance secreted by sebaceous glands below the skin's surface, has nowhere to go and begins to build up below the blockage.

How acne develops under the skin

Bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (P. Acnes) feed on the surplus of sebum and multiply without contest. As the bacterium feed, they excrete fatty acids and other substances which irritate the skin and cause inflammation. This is what causes the characteristic red blemishes on the skin.

Hormones play a major role in the development of acne, which is why acne is more likely to develop during puberty. Some women may experience acne during the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle or during the first few months of pregnancy, due to an increase of progesterone - though the exact mechanism of how progesterone causes acne is unknown. In men, high testosterone levels can influence acne; testosterone promotes sebum production which increases the risk of acne.

Other causes of acne include:

  • A family history of acne
  • Cosmetic products
  • Medicines
  • Smoking

There is currently no strong evidence to suggest that acne is caused by poor diet, poor hygiene or sexual activity.

If your acne is moderate to severe, hasn't responded to other treatment, or is causing you distress, it's best to speak to your doctor. They will be able to determine the possible cause of your acne and discuss appropriate treatments for you.

Where can I get Differin cream or gel?

Differin gel and cream is only available on prescription and cannot be bought over the counter. With Prescription Doctor, one of our doctors online can issue a prescription for Differin gel or cream, following an online consultation. Simply fill out our online medical form to get started with your order.

How does Differin cream or gel work?

Differin gel and cream work in two ways to treat acne.

Adapalene, the active ingredient of Differin, helps to shed the top layer of skin and unclogs blocked pores. This allows the sebum to escape and clears up the infection.

Differin (adapalene) also acts as an anti-inflammatory, reducing swelling and redness in the affected areas.

Both actions work together to treat acne.

How do I use Differin cream or gel?

Differin should be applied once daily to the affected areas of the skin before bed.

You can apply Differin cream or gel to small patches of acne on your face, back or chest. You should not apply Differin over large areas of severe acne.

Before you apply Differin, clean the acne-prone area with warm water and mild soap and pat the area with a dry towel.

Apply a small amount of Differin cream or gel to the affected area and gently rub it into the skin, applying a thin layer of Differin over the acne and surrounding areas.

Avoid using Differin near broken skin (cuts and scratches) or if you have eczema.

Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth and other sensitive body parts. If contact does occur, wash the area thoroughly with warm water.

Always wash your hands after applying Differin cream or gel.

If you accidentally apply too much Differin cream or gel, simply wipe it away with a tissue and discard the tissue safely.

Differin can be safely used with other topical acne treatments. If you are using other acne products (which may contain benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin or clindamycin), you should apply those in the morning and apply Differin at night. For advice on using Differin with other topical treatments, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist.

Differin comes in a tube. To get the most out of your tube, roll it up from the bottom rather than squeezing it at the sides to push the medicine out. Only use a small amount of Differin gel or cream on your skin to prevent wasting it.

Side effects and cautions of Differin cream or gel

Before using Differin, it's important to familiarise yourself with the patient information leaflet enclosed with your medicine. This leaflet contains important information about how to use and store Differin, as well as known side effects and a complete list of ingredients.

You can view the patient information leaflet for Differin Cream and the patient information leaflet for Differin Gel.

Side effects

Every medicine has the potential of causing side effects, though not everybody who uses the medicine will experience them. Nonetheless, it is important to educate yourself on the associated risks by reading the patient information leaflet enclosed with your medicine.

If you have any concerns about anything you read in the patient information leaflet or have any questions about your condition or the treatment, feel free to send a message to one of our online doctors using your Prescription Doctor account.

The side effects for Differin Cream and Differin Gel are the same.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Burning sensation of the skin
  • Dry skin
  • Irritation of the skin
  • Redness of the skin

Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Flare-up of acne
  • Increased sensitivity to sunlight
  • Itchy skin
  • Peeling of the skin
  • Skin discomfort
  • Skin reaction

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. Further information regarding the safety of Differin, including a complete list of side effects, can be found within the patient information leaflet enclosed within the packaging of your medicine.

If you experience any side effects, regardless of whether they are listed above or in the patient information leaflet, inform your doctor as soon as possible. You can also ask a pharmacist or dial the NHS 111 service for advice on how to manage your side effects.

If side effects persist for longer than 3 weeks, the doctor may lower the dose or stop your treatment.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Do not use Differin (adapalene) cream or gel if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. Speak to your doctor for further advice.

If you become pregnant while using Differin (adapalene), inform your doctor straight away. Your doctor may recommend an alternative treatment which poses less of a risk to you and your baby.

Differin should be used with caution in breastfeeding mothers. If you are breastfeeding, speak to your doctor before using Differin. They will be able to determine the safety of the treatment for you and your child.

Allergies

Do not use Differin if you are allergic to adapalene or any other ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet.

If you experience the signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction, stop using Differin and go straight to your nearest accident and emergency department. Remember to take the packaging and any remaining medicine with you so that the doctors know exactly what you have taken.

Signs of an allergic reaction include:

  • Chest tightening
  • Dry, red and cracked skin
  • Itchy, red watery eyes
  • Raised, itchy, red rash (hives)
  • Swelling of the lips, tongue, eyes or face
  • Tummy pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Wheezing

Other safety information

Always read the patient information leaflet enclosed with your Differin before you start using it.

During your online consultation, you should inform our doctor online of all other medicines you are currently taking. Remember to include medicines prescribed by your doctor or bought over the counter, including health and herbal supplements.

Do not use Differin past the expiry date printed on the packaging. The date refers to the last day of the specified month.

Never throw away medicine via household or water waste. Take any unwanted or expired medication to your local pharmacy and ask them to dispose of them safely on your behalf.

Always store your medicine out of sight and reach from children and pets.

Never share your medicine with anybody else, even if they are experiencing the same symptoms or have been diagnosed with the same condition as you.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I forget to use Differin cream or gel when I should?

If you forget to use Differin when you should, use it as soon as you remember. Continue to apply Differin as you normally would. Do not apply more Differin (adapalene) cream or gel to make up for the forgotten dose.

What should I do if I accidentally use more Differin cream or gel than I should?

If you accidentally apply too much Differin (adapalene), simply wipe away the excess with a clean tissue and discard safely. Using more Differin (adapalene) will not clear your acne any faster, but may increase your risk of side effects.

Can I drink alcohol while using Differin cream or gel?

Yes, it is safe to drink alcohol while using Differin (adapalene). Always drink in moderation and avoid drinking more than 14 units of alcohol per week.

Will Differin cream or gel affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Differin should not impact your ability to drive or operate machinery.

Can I use Differin cream or gel with moisturisers and other cosmetics?

You can wear make-up and use other cosmetic products while using Differin for acne. You should stick to products which are non-comedogenic, which means it doesn't clog pores. Apply Differin and wait for the area to dry before applying other cosmetics.

Can I use Differin cream or gel when pregnant or breastfeeding?

No, it is not safe to use Differin if you are pregnant or a breastfeeding mother. Speak to your doctor for more information.

How long does Differin cream or gel take to work?

It may take up to 12 weeks of consistently using Differin before you notice an improvement in your acne.

Will Differin cream or gel make my acne worse?

Differin may make your acne appear worse when you begin using it. As you continue to use Differin, you should notice an improvement in your acne.

References

NHS, 2019. Acne: Overview, causes, diagnosis, treatment, complications.

Galderma, 2018. Differin Cream: Summary of Product Characteristics

Galderma, 2018. Differin Gel: Summary of Product Characteristics

Additional Resources

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Natural ways to control your acne.

Acne can be frustrating when you're a teenager in high school. However, as an adult, it just seems too cruel to be true. When you are a teenager, most people understand that hormones are responsible for the many changes going on, including the acne you may be experiencing.  However, in many cases, once your hormones stabilise, you will no longer experience as many problems with acne.It is more common than people realise, but adults do suffer from acne, too.  In many of these cases, hormones are still to blame.However, it is possible to improve adult acne.  It is important to look at what you are eating, and then the goal is to stabilise your hormones.Here are some ways to do this:Consume less meatSome meat is full of hormones that do not belong to you but instead come from the animal source.  Cut back on meat, and you will reduce the level of foreign hormones in your system.Consume less dairyDairy, like meat, is full of hormones that do not belong to you.  Avoid excess consumption of dairy products.  Nowadays, you can find dairy substitutions for most regular dairy products.Lessen your stress levelsReducing stress levels in your body can help regulate your hormones.  Exercise is a great stress reliever.  Meditation, prayer, or simply having quiet time to unwind can all improve stress levels in the body.Consume less sugarSugar can cause insulin spikes in the body.  This excess insulin can lead to numerous damaging conditions that are harmful to the body.  Avoid sugar and opt for natural sweeteners instead.  Agave nectar and stevia are good alternatives.  The less sugar you eat, the less you will need as your body adjusts to the changes.  Consume fresh whole foodsThe more natural your diet, the healthier you and your hormonal system will be.  Opt for whole grains such as brown rice, and eat plenty of beans and green vegetables. Opt for natural foods, such as vegetables, and avoid processed foods. Consume less saltToo much salt can be damaging to the body and, in turn, to your hormones.  Yes, you do need salt, but not in the quantities that us Brits are accustomed to in our diets. Excess salt can increase the risk of other health conditions, such as high blood pressure.  Gradually adjust your palate to eating less salt.  Like sugar, the less you eat, the less you’ll crave it.Improving adult acne is possible.  The key is to get your hormones under control, and the best way to do this is by eating less meat and dairy, reducing stress through several methods, and eating whole, unrefined foods.  If, for any reason, you continue to have problems with acne, then you should seek the help of a natural health practitioner or medical doctor.
Read more →
Natural ways to control your acne.
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Control your hormones, control your acne

There is no doubt that out-of-control hormones can lead to acne. Hence, if you can control the hormones, it may also help control the acne.But just how do you balance the hormones in the body? Here are two big ways:1. DietMany of us have an excess of unhealthy hormones in our bodies.  Many of these hormones do not even belong to us!  Instead, we ingest them through our consumption of meat and dairy products.If you're serious about controlling your hormones, the first place to start is with your diet. By reducing the amount of meat and dairy that you consume, you can reduce the level of excess hormones.Instead of regular milk, opt for soy or rice milk, and include several vegetarian meals in your weekly diet.  Avoid using cheese, other dairy products, and meat on a regular basis. Instead, use meat and dairy in moderation.Additionally, be mindful of the foods you eat. Additives, chemicals, and preservatives can all be very damaging to your hormonal system.  Instead of eating junk food or pre-packaged foods, choose fresh, natural, whole foods. These foods will help keep your body functioning at its best and regulate your hormones.Reducing sugar is also necessary to help control the hormones. Excess use of sugar can cause severe insulin spikes in the body. This will lead to an overproduction of certain hormones, which have been shown to damage both the body and skin.2. Reduce stress in your bodyAnother way to regulate hormone levels in your body is through exercise. Many suffer from pent-up stress, and this stress can wreak havoc on the body's hormonal systems. Regular, vigorous exercise helps reduce stress and, in turn, controls the hormones in the body.Meditation has also been proven to reduce stress levels in the body. Start slowly and simply sit in a quiet space for a few minutes. Concentrate on your breathing, and imagine yourself relaxing into your body.  The idea is simply to let your body and mind rest for a few minutes each day.Prayer has also been shown to improve overall health. Like meditation, it allows you quiet time. By allowing a higher power into your life, you can let go of the things you cannot control.To conclude, getting your hormones under control means you can also manage your acne effectively. The above tips will help you get started.
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Control your hormones, control your acne
BLOG

How to use Tea Tree oil for acne?

Acne is not just something that affects hormonal teenagers; adults can suffer, too. It has nothing to do with age, and there are a number of reasons for it. It can occur due to diet, hormone imbalances, skin bacteria, stress, and blocked pores. It could be a combination of these things or just one of them, but the result is the same – lots of spots that not only look unpleasant but can also be sore and itchy. Additionally, for those who suffer, it is crucial to take extra care of their skin.The truth is that tea tree oil may work – studies show that at 5% strength, it can have an effect – but it is often less effective than other medicines that are specifically designed to treat acne. However, since it is seen as a ‘natural’ product, many people still like to try it to treat their acne.It is finding the 5% concentration that often proves to be a problem. In most chemists and supermarkets, the concentration tends to be listed as around 0.5%, which is not concentrated enough to make any difference to your acne (even assuming tea tree oil makes a difference at all). You might have better luck searching in health food shops, where the concentration can be as high as 3%, but again, it might still not be enough.Be cautious when searching for higher concentrations of tea tree oil; selecting too high a concentration can irritate your skin even more, and rather than having a soothing effect, it may exacerbate the symptoms of your acne, leading to inflammation and soreness.How to use Tea Tree Oil?First, use a gentle cleaning wash to clean your face. This will leave the skin as fresh as possible, while removing any dirt and dead skin cells that would otherwise clog your pores, which can cause irritation. Exfoliation can also be beneficial, provided you don't use products that might further irritate your skin. If you suffer from recurrent acne, washing your face with a specialist formula daily is important, regardless of whether you use tea tree oil or not.Once you have washed your face, you can begin using tea tree oil. The amount and method of application will vary between brands and formulations. Some tea tree oil products may need to be diluted in water before use; others may be in gel form, which can be applied directly to the skin. Always check the label for instructions on how to use the product.A common instruction on how to use tea tree oil is to apply a few drops – diluted if necessary – of the oil onto a cotton wool pad and gently dab it onto your face. You should feel a soothing sensation when you do this. Alternatively, take some moisturiser and add a few drops of tea tree oil to it before applying it all over your face.If you notice signs of irritation or experience an allergic reaction to the oil, stop using it immediately. Wash the product off your face and consult your doctor for advice.It is also possible to buy tea tree oil that is already mixed into a facial wash. These do tend to have much lower concentrations but can be a good way to calm the skin if your acne is particularly sore and painful. Some of these products may also contain exfoliation beads, which gently scrub the skin to remove dead skin cells, which might further worsen your acne.There are many complimentary and natural "treatments" for acne, though they may not all work. Be sure to speak to your doctor or a dermatologist before using tea tree oil to treat your acne. Alternatively, your doctor may prescribe an anti-acne treatment that contains salicylic acid, which reduces oil production and skin shedding. You may find these prescription acne treatments provide more effective relief in a shorter space of time.Before using any new skin product, perform a patch test to determine if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. You should also consider consulting your doctor or a dermatologist for advice on how to reduce your acne symptoms in other ways, such as exercising, managing stress, or taking precautionary measures during certain seasons.
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How to use Tea Tree oil for acne?
BLOG

What is 'bacne' and how is it treated?

When you think of acne, you will probably think of spots and pustules on your face. However, this is not the only place where acne can appear; it can actually affect any area of the body that has hair follicles or oil-secreting glands. These areas include the chest, shoulders, and back.'Bacne', as back acne is colloquially known, affects as many as 60% of people, but it is not often discussed. Whereas facial acne (which affects up to 95% of people aged between 11 and 30) is obvious and cannot be hidden, back acne is easy to hide away and, therefore, can be forgotten about for the most part, or at least not dealt with. However, this ‘out of sight, out of mind’ mindset regarding back acne is not helpful; there are ways that back acne can be treated, and the sooner you start using them, the better.What Causes back acne?Just like your face, your back has many sebaceous glands. These glands secrete an oily substance called sebum, which helps to ensure the hair and skin remain properly moisturised. It is made up of free fatty acids, triglycerides, squalene, cholesterol, cholesterol esters, and wax esters. It is an invaluable part of the body.However, when sebum rises to the surface of the skin, it mixes with lipids, sweat, and various debris from the surrounding environment. When this happens, the oil starts to block the pores of the skin and the hair follicles on your body. When the hair follicles become too clogged, they form an acne lesion.Different Types of Back AcneThe term ‘back acne’ actually covers a wide range of different-looking spots and marks. Although they are all caused by blocked follicles and pores, the reasons they emerge differently are varied.WhiteheadsWhiteheads are the most common type of back acne. Rather than erupting, the blocked follicle remains closed and therefore resembles a white bump on the skin.BlackheadsConversely, when a follicle opens up, it forms a blackhead. The reason the head of the spot turns black is because the sebum is reacting with the air – it has nothing to do with dirt, and you cannot ‘scrub’ a blackhead ‘clean’.PapulesIf the acne you are experiencing is sore and appears as small, pink bumps, you have papules.PustulesAnother term for a pustule is a pimple, a term you may be familiar with. As the original name suggests, these are filled with pus, so they look white or yellow, and the base is red.CystsCysts are also pus-filled, but they are much larger than pustules and can be extremely painful. If treated improperly or if they are picked or scratched, they can leave scars.NodulesSometimes, acne lesions don’t make it to the surface of the skin, and those that form deeper down are called nodules. These feel like hard bumps, and they are rather large and painful.How To Treat Back AcneAs with most medical conditions, it is best to try to prevent back acne in the first place. Although this is not always possible, there are some measures you can take that may help.To start, check the leaflets and labels of any medications you are taking. Some drugs can list the development of acne as a side effect. If that is the case, it is best to consult a healthcare professional about alternative medications that you may be able to take. Remember, though, that although back acne can be uncomfortable, if the medication is doing you good, it might be something you choose to live with to feel better in every other aspect of your life.Oil-based skin care products can also be an issue, as adding more oil to already oily skin can cause your follicles to become blocked more easily. Search for oil-free products, including moisturisers and sun protection. Check the labels of anything you intend to use; if it claims to be non-comedogenic, it means that it won’t cause blackheads, for example.Pressure on your back from carrying a bag or sports equipment can also cause your hair follicles to become blocked. If you carry equipment or a backpack for long periods, try to reduce this.Good skin care is another way of reducing acne (and not just back acne, but wherever you happen to have it). Regularly use a gentle cleanser to wash yourself, and always take a shower after any form of exercise, particularly if you are sweaty.If you still experience back acne, there are over-the-counter treatments available that can help. These will include ingredients such as sulphur, resorcinol, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide.If none of the above has helped you, you will need to seek advice from a dermatologist. They will be able to prescribe medication to reduce and even remove any signs of back acne.
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What is 'bacne' and how is it treated?

Treatment information

  • Product Name: Differin
  • Manufacturer: Galderma
  • Active Ingredient(s) Adapalene
  • Administration: Directly to skin (topical)
  • Presentation: Cream or gel
  • Available Strength: 0.1% Adapelene
  • Exemption: Prescription only medication
  • Application: Men and women over 18 with acne
  • Dosage: Once daily to affected area
  • Description: Differin is a topical treatment for acne which contains Adapalene
  • Drug Class: Retinoid
  • Alcohol Consumption: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption to recommended weekly limit
  • When Pregnant: Do not use when pregnant. Speak to your doctor for more advice.
  • When Breastfeeding Do not use when breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor for more advice.
  • Price: 38.99 GBP
  • https://www.prescriptiondoctor.com/storage/product_images_th/GtlHGbZd7hbHLo4H1G7ygXi8XYDkLZ.jpg
Click here to view the Differin (Adapalene) - Patient Information Leaflet

Authored & Reviewed By

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

MPharm - Lead Pharmacist
Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.

Published on: 11/09/2018 Reviewed on: 13/03/2024

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