Differin gel (adapalene)

Differin gel is a prescription acne treatment that is effective against blackheads, whiteheads, and oily skin. It reduces inflammation and redness and is also an effective treatment for hormonal acne.

The gel can be used on its own or with other acne treatments such as antibiotics or topical treatments.

You can buy Differin 0.1% gel and cream online with free next-day delivery here at euroClinix.

Differin works by speeding up your skin’s natural exfoliation. It helps to unblock pores, improve oily skin and prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming.

Adapalene is the active ingredient in Differin. It belongs to a group of prescription acne medications called topical retinoids. These medicines specifically help to regulate the turnover of skin cells, the process where your skin sheds dead skin cells.

Adapalene has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin inflammation, soreness, and irritation by targeting the white blood cells.

Differin has many benefits compared to other acne treatments:

• Once-daily use: Differin only needs to be applied once a day, making it easy to fit into your routine.
• Works with other products: You can use Differin with other skincare products, however, you should avoid using strong exfoliants unless advised by your doctor.
• Suitable for different skin types: Differin works well for oily, dry, and sensitive skin. It is also oil‑free and fragrance‑free.
• Improves the appearance of skin: It restores even skin tone, texture and radiance by clearing your acne. It also helps reduce the risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation by treating acne.

Differin has been shown to be effective in clinical studies. In clinical studies of 323 patients, adapalene was shown to decrease total and noninflammatory lesions. It was also shown to work faster and cause less irritation than other acne treatments.

Who can use it?

Differin gel is safe for most people with mild to moderate acne. However, it may not be suitable for certain groups of people.

At euroClinix, we may be able to prescribe this gel for you if you are over the age of 18 and have mild to moderate acne. You must first complete a consultation with one of our doctors.

Who cannot use it?

Avoid using Differin if you are currently pregnant or planning to conceive. This is because there is a slight chance it can cause harm to an unborn baby.

If you have had an allergic reaction to Adapalene or any of the other inactive ingredients in this medicine, you should avoid using Differin and consult your doctor for an alternative.

You should also check with your doctor or dermatologist before using Differin if you have other skin conditions, such as rosacea or eczema.

Differin comes in a 0.1% gel, which is effective for treating mild to moderate acne.

At euroClinix, we also sell Differin in a cream formulation. The cream is thicker and is often recommended for people with dry or sensitive skin. Whereas the gel is a lighter formulation and more suitable for people with oily skin.

How to use it

Using Differin is straightforward. To ensure you get the best results, follow these steps for proper use:

	Wash your hands thoroughly before applying this product
	Cleanse your face with water or a non-irritating cleanser, then gently pat dry
	Squeeze a small amount of gel onto your fingertips and gently rub it into the affected areas
	Apply a thin layer of Differin gel to the whole area, not just to individual pimples
	Wash your hands once you have finished applying the gel
	Finish by applying a gentle moisturiser or SPF (sunscreen) if you are using the gel in the morning

Using this gel regularly will give you the best results and reduce the chance of experiencing skin irritation.

Dr. Caroline Fontana Lead Prescribing Doctor

When to use it

Try to apply Differin at the same time each day. Most people apply the gel before bed however, this may depend on whether you use any other topical acne treatments.

The gel should not be used more than once a day. Applying more gel than you have been prescribed will not speed up treatment and you will be more likely to experience skin irritation.

How long do I use it for?

Use Differin for as long as your doctor advises. It usually takes a few weeks to start seeing results. It’s important to continue using the gel even after your skin looks clearer to help prevent future breakouts.

If you're unsure about how long to use it, check with your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Don’t worry if you forget to apply this medicine at the right time. If you miss a dose, skip it and apply your next dose at the regular time.

Differin starts working immediately, with results seen in as little as two weeks. However, most people will start to see results after around 4 weeks of using it and their symptoms will have improved significantly after 3 months.

Differin's official website mentions that patients reported up to an 87% decrease in acne after 12 weeks of use.

If you have not noticed any improvement after 3 months, then you should speak to your doctor about an alternative.

What to expect when using Differin

Week 0

You will begin your treatment journey by applying a thin layer of Differin to your entire face once daily. It’s important to make Differin a part of your daily skincare routine to experience its full effects

Week 2

You may notice some mild redness or irritation on the treated area. Don’t worry, this is common as your skin gets used to the treatment, and this usually resolves after about four weeks. You may start to see a reduction in acne after two weeks of treatment, but it can take up to eight to twelve weeks to see the full benefits.

Week 12

You should see a significant improvement in your skin around the 12-week mark. Studies have shown that patients experience up to 87% reduction in acne. Continue using Differin every day, for as long as your doctor prescribes.

You can make the following lifestyle changes to help keep the treatment working well and reduce the risk of experiencing side effects:

• Avoid waxing in areas where the gel has been applied
• Use a gentle moisturiser to help manage any dryness or irritation you may experience
• Choose mild cleansers and avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants that may irritate your skin

You should also be careful when applying Differin to sensitive areas such as the neck. Avoid letting Differin build up around your nose to prevent side effects.

The common side effects of Differin may affect 1 in 10 people and usually occur within 2 to 4 weeks of using the gel. These include:

• Dryness
• Redness
• Irritation
• Burning or stinging

Part of the treatment process when using topical retinoids is an effect known as retinisation. This is the period when your skin gets used to the retinoid.

During this time skin may become irritated and can appear worse than before. This is part of the process and is nothing to worry about, it simply means that the gel is working.

While relatively common, not everyone experiences this and if you do, these effects should decrease over time with daily use.

If you experience any serious side effects (e.g an allergic reaction), consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Symptoms may include:

• swelling of the face, lips or throat
• difficulty swallowing or breathing
• a rash or hives
• dizziness

For a full list of potential side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

Tell your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, especially other medicines or products used to treat acne.

Other retinoids shouldn't be used at the same time as adapalene.

There are some skincare products you should avoid whilst using Differin as they can cause additional irritation or may reduce the effectiveness of the gel.

You should avoid using any products that:

• contain harsh chemicals such as alpha hydroxy acids (e.g glycolic acid) or beta hydroxy acids (e.g salicylic acid)
• contain retinol (a weaker variant of retinoids)
• are comedogenic (block pores)

For more information, refer to the safety information table below:

Safety Tips

Pregnancy Avoid

Do not use Differin Gel if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, as it may harm the unborn baby. Consult your doctor for alternative treatments.

Breastfeeding Consult your doctor

If breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Differin Gel. Avoid applying the gel to the chest area to prevent accidental contact with the infant.

Skin irritation Caution

Mild redness, dryness, or peeling may occur during the first few weeks of treatment. If irritation persists, consult your doctor.

Sun exposure Caution

Limit sun exposure while using Differin Gel, as it can increase skin sensitivity. Apply sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing when outdoors.

How to store

Ensure it is kept in its original container. Do not store the gel above 25°C or freeze the product.

Make sure this medicine is kept out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this gel after the expiry date stated on the tube.

Disposal

Take any unused or expired medicines to your nearest pharmacy to dispose of them safely. Do not throw away any medicines in your household waste or flush them down the toilet.

No, Differin gel is a prescription-only medicine and is not for sale over the counter. It must be prescribed by a doctor, this is to ensure it is safe and suitable for you.

Ordering Differin gel from euroClinix is simple and secure. Follow these steps:

1. Start a confidential online questionnaire from the top of this page. It will take about 5-10 minutes to complete.
2. A UK-registered doctor will review your consultation.
3. If approved, the doctor will issue an electronic prescription.
4. A licensed UK pharmacy will send your medication in discreet packaging. The pharmacy will also share tracking information. You get free next-day delivery.

euroClinix offers ongoing support for any questions. Privacy and security are guaranteed through compliance with the relevant regulatory standards and the use of encrypted transactions.

euroClinix is a trusted online clinic that offers services in several European countries. All consultations and prescriptions are handled by our UK-registered doctors.

The process is convenient with online consultations and discreet home delivery. Our friendly customer service team is always happy to assist with any questions related to our services.

The euroClinix platform is user-friendly for managing prescriptions and reorders securely.

Choosing euroClinix ensures a trusted, professional, and supportive service for the treatment of acne.

At euroClinix, our prices are all-inclusive: you get a prescription, consultation and free delivery on all orders. There are no hidden charges, so you can be sure you are getting the best treatment possible at a price that’s fair and competitive.

If Differin is not suitable for you, we have other topical acne products available.

If you prefer a tablet form, we also have antibiotics such as Lymecycline and Oxytetracycline available to treat acne. Some combined oral contraceptive pills such as Dianette are also available to help with acne.