Differin

Differin is a prescription-only gel for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris. It contains the active ingredient adapalene, a third-generation synthetic retinoid (vitamin A derivative).

Adapalene acts directly on the development of acne: it normalizes the disrupted keratinization process in the hair follicles, thereby preventing the formation of blackheads. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Adapalene works on several levels:

Normalization of keratinization: In acne, keratinization of the sebaceous follicles is disrupted – skin cells clump together and clog the pores. Adapalene binds to retinoid receptors in the skin and normalizes this process.

Comedolytic effect: Existing blackheads (comedones) are dissolved, and new ones are prevented from forming.

Anti-inflammatory effect: Adapalene inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators (interleukins, leukotrienes), thereby reducing the redness and swelling of inflamed acne lesions.

Advantages over older retinoids:

• More stable when exposed to light and oxygen
• Can be used together with benzoyl peroxide

Differin is suitable for:

• Adolescents aged 12 and over and adults with acne vulgaris
• Predominantly comedonal acne (blackheads)
• Mild to moderate inflammatory acne
• Maintenance therapy after successful acne treatment

Particularly suitable for:

• Many blackheads and whiteheads (open and closed comedones)
• Early stages of acne
• Preventing new acne lesions
• More sensitive skin

Less suitable for:

• Severe cystic acne (systemic therapy often needed)
• Eczema, sunburn or damaged skin

Do not use in:

• Pregnancy or planned pregnancy

Active ingredient concentration:

• Adapalene: 1 mg/g (0.1%)

Dosage forms:

• Differin Gel 0.1%
• Differin Cream 0.1%

Pack sizes:

• 30 g tube
• 60 g tube

Recommendation: The gel is suitable for normal to oily skin, the cream for drier skin.

Application: 1. In the evening, wash your face with a mild cleanser 2. Let the skin dry completely (at least 15-20 minutes) 3. Distribute a pea-sized amount of gel over the forehead, cheeks and chin 4. Apply thinly and evenly to the entire face 5. Avoid sensitive areas (around the eyes, nasolabial folds)

Important:

• Apply once daily in the evening
• Apply to dry skin to minimize irritation
• Sun protection during the day is a must (SPF 30+)
• Be patient: visible improvement after 4-12 weeks

Tips for getting used to it:

• First 2 weeks: apply every other day
• If well tolerated: daily application
• If the skin becomes very dry: moisturizer 20 minutes after the gel

Differin must not be used in case of:

• Hypersensitivity to adapalene or other retinoids
• Pregnancy or planned pregnancy
• Acute eczema or dermatitis
• Sunburn or severely irritated skin
• In the area of the eyes, lips and mucous membranes

Caution in case of:

• Breastfeeding (do not apply to the chest area)
• Very sensitive or atopic skin
• Concurrent use of drying products

Pregnancy note: Although systemic absorption of adapalene is low, it must not be used during pregnancy or if a pregnancy is planned (precautionary principle for retinoids). If pregnancy occurs during treatment, the treatment must be stopped.

Common (1-10%):

• Dry skin
• Scaling
• Skin redness
• Burning or stinging during application

Uncommon (0.1-1%):

• Itching
• Sunburn-like reactions
• Worsening of acne at the start (purging)
• Skin irritation

Rare:

• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Eye irritation after accidental contact

Purging phase: During the first 2-4 weeks, more blemishes may appear. Worsening of acne is an uncommon side effect of Differin.

Tips:

• Start by applying it less often
• Use a moisturizer
• Avoid products containing alcohol

Caution when used at the same time as:

• Other retinoids (tretinoin, topical isotretinoin)
• Products containing sulfur, resorcinol or salicylic acid
• Strongly drying products
• AHA/BHA peels

Compatible combinations:

• Benzoyl peroxide (can be used together or at different times)
• Mild cleansers
• Non-comedogenic moisturizers
• Sunscreens

Recommendation: When combining with other active ingredients: the other product in the morning, Differin in the evening.