Differin

£26.99

Differin Gel 0.1% (45g) A clinically proven topical gel containing adapalene 0.1%, designed to treat and prevent acne at the source.  Differin works by regulating skin cell turnover to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and stop new breakouts from forming – helping you achieve clearer, smoother skin over time.

Lightweight and non-greasy, it’s formulated for once daily application to clean, dry skin as directed by your prescriber.

  • ✔ 45g tube (approx. 1 to 2 months supply)
  • ✔ Targets existing breakouts and prevents new ones
  • ✔ Prescription-strength retinoid-based treatment

Start your treatment today with expert approval and guidance.

Request Treatment

icon-1

Type of medicine

A topical retinoid gel formulated to treat mild to moderate acne in adults and young people aged 12 and over.

icon-2

Active Ingredient

Adapalene – a topical retinoid that works by unclogging blocked pores, reducing skin inflammation, and regulating skin cell turnover to help clear and prevent acne breakouts.

icon-3

Effective within

Noticeable results can typically be seen within 8 to 12 weeks of consistent daily use, with further improvements developing as treatment continues.

icon-4

Works by

Regulating skin cell turnover, unclogging blocked pores, and reducing inflammation to help clear existing acne breakouts and prevent new ones from forming.

icon-5

Side effects

Commonly experienced side effects include dryness, redness, peeling, and mild irritation or stinging of the skin, which are most likely to occur during the early stages of treatment.

icon-6

Not Suitable For

Not suitable for those with broken, sunburned, or notably irritated skin, individuals with a known sensitivity or allergy to adapalene or other retinoids, or women who are pregnant or trying to conceive.

Differin is a topical treatment designed to support skin renewal and improve the appearance of blemishes. It contains adapalene, a retinoid-like ingredient that helps to promote the natural shedding of dead skin cells. This process may help to keep pores clear and reduce the formation of spots. This product suits adults and teenagers who experience mild to moderate acne. It can fit well into daily skincare routines, as it is usually applied once each evening after cleansing.

Differin is lightweight and non-greasy, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. However, it is important to introduce it gradually to avoid irritation. Before starting Differin, consult a healthcare professional or prescriber to ensure it is appropriate for your skin condition. Avoid using it alongside other strong acne treatments unless advised. Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure while using this product, as it may increase sensitivity. Differin offers a practical option for those seeking to manage blemishes as part of a balanced skincare approach.

Remember, consistent use over several weeks is often necessary to see visible improvements. If you experience persistent irritation or adverse effects, speak to your prescriber promptly. Always follow the instructions provided to achieve the best results safely.

If you are considering treatment, pair it with balanced nutrition, regular activity, and good sleep. A healthcare professional can help you decide if it suits your needs and how to use it safely.

How should I take Differin?

Differin should be applied as a thin layer once every evening to clean, dry skin, ideally just before going to bed.  Following the guidance of your healthcare professional or referring to the patient information leaflet for detailed instructions is strongly recommended.  Application to broken, sunburned, or irritated skin should be avoided, and care should be taken to keep the gel away from the eyes, lips, and nose.  Unlike some other acne treatments, Differin does not carry a risk of bleaching fabrics or bedding.  Incorporating a daily moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen into your routine is advisable, as this treatment can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight.  Should you have any concerns about using Differin or notice any unexpected effects during treatment, reaching out to your prescriber for advice is encouraged.

What ingredients are in Differin?

Differin contains one active ingredient, adapalene, a retinoid that works to unclog pores and reduce the inflammation associated with acne.  Complementing this, the gel also includes a number of inactive ingredients such as carbomer, propylene glycol, and purified water, all of which play a role in maintaining the texture and stability of the formulation.  A comprehensive list of all ingredients can be found in the patient information leaflet supplied with your medication, which should always be consulted if you have any known allergies or sensitivities.  Any questions or concerns regarding the contents of the product should be discussed with your healthcare professional before beginning treatment.

Warnings and precautions

Differin may not be appropriate for every individual or skin type.  Prior to starting treatment, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is highly recommended, especially for those with sensitive skin, eczema, or other pre-existing skin conditions.  Combining Differin with additional topical acne products or abrasive exfoliating treatments is best avoided, as doing so may result in increased irritation or adverse skin reactions.  Exposure to sunlight should be minimised throughout the course of treatment, as Differin can heighten the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays.  Severe or persistent skin reactions warrant prompt attention and should be reported to a prescriber as soon as possible.  Applying Differin to skin that is broken, sunburned, or notably irritated must be avoided at all times.  Careful adherence to the application instructions and dosage recommendations given by your healthcare professional is crucial for the duration of the treatment.

What are side effects of Differin?

Differin may produce side effects in some individuals, which can range from mild to more pronounced reactions.  The most commonly experienced effects include dryness, redness, peeling, and a sensation of mild stinging or burning, all of which tend to be most noticeable during the initial weeks of treatment as the skin adapts.  Some users may find that they develop itching or increased sensitivity in the areas where Differin has been applied.  Although uncommon, more serious reactions can occasionally arise, such as notable swelling, blistering, or a marked worsening of skin irritation.  Persistent or severe symptoms should never be ignored and warrant seeking medical attention without delay.  Consulting a healthcare professional before commencing or discontinuing Differin is essential to ensure the treatment remains safe and suitable for your specific skin type and condition.

How do I store Differin?

Differin should be stored below 25°C in a cool, dry location away from direct heat and light.  At all times, it is vital to ensure the gel is kept well out of the reach of children and pets.  Environments with high humidity, such as bathrooms, or areas in close proximity to heat sources, are not considered suitable places to store this product.  Keeping Differin in its original packaging and making sure the cap is secured tightly after every application will help to safeguard it against communication and deterioration.  Should you require any further advice regarding the storage of this product, your pharmacist or prescriber will be glad to help.

Differin treats acne by unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and preventing new spots from forming.
Differin usually takes 6 to 8 weeks to show visible results, but some people may notice improvements sooner.
Yes, using a moisturiser alongside Differin helps reduce dryness and keeps your skin barrier healthy.
Yes, Differin can cause a short-term purge as it speeds up skin turnover. This should settle after a few weeks.
No, Differin is a prescription-only acne treatment in the UK and should be used under medical supervision.