What is differine?
Differin is a prescription gel for topical treatment of acne vulgaris. It contains the active ingredient aapalene, a synthetic retinoid (vitamin A) of the third generation.
Adapalen directly affects the formation of acne: It normalizes the disturbed corrugation process in the hair follicles and thus prevents the formation of mitessers. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties.
Compared to older retinoids such as tretinoin, aapalen is considered to be better tolerated and less irritating.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Adapalen 0,1%
Adapalen works on several levels:
Normalization of keratinization: In acne, the corneal follicles are disturbed – Skin cells clump together and block the pores. Adapalen binds to retinoid receptors in the skin and normalizes this process.
Comedolytic action: Existing Mitesser (Komedons) are dissolved, and new education is prevented.
Inflammation inhibition: Adapalen inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators (interleukins, leukotrienes) and thus reduces the redness and swelling of inflammatory acne lesions.
Advantages over older retinoids:
- Stable to light and oxygen
- Less irritating than tretinoin
- Can be used together with benzoyl peroxide
Who is it suitable for?
Differin is suitable for:
- Young people aged 12 and adults with acne vulgaris
- With predominantly komedogenic acne (center)
- With light to moderate inflammatory acne
- As maintenance therapy after successful acne treatment
Especially suitable for:
- Many co-ese (open and closed comedons)
- Early stages of acne
- To prevent new acnealing
- For more sensitive skin (more compatible than tretinoin)
More suitable for:
- Heavy cystic acne (systemic therapy often required)
- eczema, sunburn or damaged skin
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Available Dosages
Concentration of active substance:
- Adapalen: 1 mg/g (0.1%)
Depletion forms:
- Differin gel 0.1%
- Differin cream 0.1%
Pack sizes:
- 30 g tube
- 60 g tube
Recommendation: Gel is suitable for normal to fatty skin, cream for more dry skin.
How to Take
Application: 1. In the evening wash the face with a mild cleaner Two. Leave skin completely dry (min. 15-20 minutes) 3. Spread a large-grained Kleck gel on forehead, cheeks and chin 4. Apply thin and evenly to the whole face Five. Save sensitive areas (eye, nasolabial fold)
Important:
- Apply once a day
- Apply to dry skin to minimize irritation
- Sun protection per day is mandatory (LSF 30+)
- Patience: Visible improvement after 4-12 weeks
Reconciliation tips:
- First 2 weeks: Apply every second day
- Good compatibility: Daily application
- With strong dryness: moisturizer 20 minutes after gel
Contraindications
**Differin must not be used at:* *
- hypersensitivity to adapals or other retinoides
- Pregnancy and child desire without safe prevention
- Acute eczema or dermatitis
- Sunburn or strongly irritated skin
- In the area of eyes, lips and mucous membranes
Preview at:
- Breastfeeding (Do not apply in the breast)
- Very sensitive or atopic skin
- Simultaneous application of drying products
Pregnant care: Although the systemic uptake of adapals is low, it should not be used in pregnancy (predictive principle in retinoids).
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- dry skin
- dandruff
- Skin redness
- Burning or stealing during use
** Occasionally (0,1-1%):* *
- Itching
- Sunburn-like reactions
- Deterioration of acne at the beginning
- Skin irritation
Selten:
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Eye irritation with inadvertent contact
Purging phase: In the first 2-4 weeks more impurities can occur. This is normal – Adapalen brings hidden comedons to the surface faster.
Tips:
- Start with low frequency
- Use moisturizer
- Avoid products with alcohol
Interactions
Preview with simultaneous application of:
- Other retinoids (Tretinoin, Isotretinoin topically)
- Products with sulfur, resorcinol or salicylic acid
- Strong drying products
- AHA/BHA peeling
Combinations:
- Benzoyl peroxide (can be used together or with a time delay)
- Milde Cleaner
- Non-comedogenic moisturizers
- sunscreens
Recommendation: In combination with other active ingredients: in the morning the other product, in the evening differin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is differine right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.