What is the difference between differin and tretinoin?

Both are retinoides, but adifferin is more stable and usually better tolerated. It causes less irritation and can be used simultaneously with benzoyl peroxide.

Why do I get more pimples in the beginning?

It's normal. Adapals accelerates the skin renewal process, making hidden impurities visible faster. After 4-6 weeks, the skin is better.

Can I permanently use Differin?

Yes, Differin can be used in the long term as maintenance therapy. After successful acne treatment, the application can be reduced to 2-3 times a week.

Does Differin also help against wrinkles?

Retinoides such as adapals can also positively influence skin aging (collagen production, cell renewal). However, tretinoin is often preferred for anti-aging.

Can I sunbathe with Differin?

Intensive sunlight should be avoided as the skin becomes more sensitive. Daily sun protection (LSF 30+) is mandatory. Solariums are taboo.

differine

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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

Epiduo

Skinoren

Duac Akne Gel

Acnatac

Is differine right for you?

A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.

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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. Read the package leaflet before use.