Differin adapalene gel acne treatment reviews năm 2024

We purchased Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment so our writer could put it to the test. Keep reading for our full product review.

Editor’s Note: We reviewed this article on September 22, 2023. As per our editorial policy, we are constantly updating our content, to make sure it reflects the best of the best when it comes to beauty, wellness, and fashion. We want to assure our readers that we still stand by our recommendations, which we do.

I enjoy aging. The wisdom. The self-acceptance. The wine. But the hormonal breakouts that pop up on my jawline, neck, and chest? Those can go. As someone who had no experience with teenage acne or even college breakouts, this is still a relatively new experience. I have my remedies for my facial breakouts down, but I still haven’t found the right mix of products for my chest and neck. I've tried a few different remedies (like scrubs and glycolic acid washes) on these problem areas, but nothing has kept my body acne under control.

This is where Differin Gel, the first FDA-approved over-the-counter topical retinoid, comes in. Since I don't like to use acne treatments on my face—my skin is extremely sensitive—I thought this gel could be my saving grace for the problem areas on my neck and chest. So did it really work? Read on to find out.

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment

Best for: Normal, combination, and oily skin

Uses: Treats acne and smooths the appearance of pores and dark spots

Active ingredients: Adapalene 0.1% (retinoid)

Potential allergens: Sodium hydroxide

Cruelty-free?: No

Price: $14

About the brand: Differin hit the market in 1996 as a prescription product to help treat acne vulgaris in patients 12 years and older. The Rx-strength acne-fighting retinoid helps clear breakouts and prevents acne before it begins. The retinoid was once only available by prescription but has been available over-the-counter since 2017.

About My Skin: Sensitive, combination skin with hormonal breakouts

Thirty-something and still breaking out? Yeah, me too. My skin isn't just breakout-prone—it's sensitive. So sensitive that anything can set it off. Fragrances, certain oils, and overly harsh products are a no-no for me. However, my skin reacts positively to retinol as long as it isn't mixed with too many additional ingredients. Differin Gel's active ingredient is in the vitamin A family, but it isn't retinol—it's a retinoid, so I'm looking forward to seeing how my skin reacts.

Ingredients: It's a retinoid, not retinol

What is the difference between a retinoid and retinol? Well, it’s mainly about how fast they work. In a previous story for Byrdie, Senior Editor Lindsey Metrus talked with Melissa K. Levin, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York, about the key differences between them. Levin told Byrdie, "Retinol works more gradually compared to retinoids due to their difference in molecular structure and how they are processed in the skin." Essentially, it usually takes more time to see results from retinol compared to retinoids.

The Feel: Light and gel-like

This product is a lightweight gel that, thankfully, doesn't leave any sticky or tacky residue after application. Before I applied the gel, I did a little research to ensure I wasn't using too much or too little. (The brand's website advises applying a thin layer.) If you're anything like me, when you're experiencing a breakout, you want to apply a bit more to ensure the product is working. That isn't necessary here—a pea-sized amount does the trick.

Byrdie / Bianca Lambert

The Results: No irritation or peeling

After the first night of using this, I monitored my skin to see if there was any peeling or irritation. There was none. My skin felt and looked like itself—and the pesky pimples were still there. I expected this because Differin isn't a spot treatment, but instead is a product that's designed to work overtime.

After eight days of use, I noticed that my chest felt smoother. I also noticed there were no neck pimples the week before my cycle.

I'm enjoying seeing the cumulative effects of using this product each night, and I'm sure as time passes, I'll reap even more benefits.

Byrdie / Bianca Lambert

The Value: Worth it

I love that there is a product with prescription-strength abilities available to everyone. Skincare should be accessible for all, and this is a step in the right direction. The tube may seem small at first, but if you follow the instructions, your tube will last a while. Remember, a pea-sized amount is all you need.

Byrdie / Bianca Lambert

Similar Products: No prescription-strength options, but there's a beloved retinoid on the market

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane ($14): The Ordinary is known for offering affordable vitamin A products that really work. Because this product is a granactive retinoid, it offers results without irritating the skin, even though it's high-strength, according to the brand. The Ordinary also offers two moderate-strength retinoid products: The Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion and the Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane. (These products are so popular that they fly out of stock frequently, but be sure to get on the waitlist—you won't be disappointed.)

Final Verdict

If you're looking for spot treatment or a quick fix, Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment isn't for you. This gel takes time for optimal results. The price and the results, I think, make this product worth adding to your routine, especially if you're dealing with hormonal breakouts. The website states you'll see the best results after cumulative use for 12 weeks. I've also read that many reviewers have seen a change in their skin in six weeks. Keep in mind your results will vary, but even little changes to the skin's clarity on my neck and chest make this a new staple in my nightly routine.

Does Differin actually help acne?

The 0.1% active ingredient, adapalene, has been shown to be an effective treatment when it comes to acne. It can also help minimize scarring and improve skin texture. For Differin Gel to be effective, it must be used consistently and for an ongoing period of time, usually 3 months.

How long does it take for Differin gel to work on acne?

Differin® Gel starts working immediately, and results may be seen in as little as two weeks. It may take some time to see significant results, but with continued use, it's been proven to work, so hang in there. In a clinical study, patients reported up to an 87% decrease in acne after 12 weeks of use.

Is it OK to use Differin gel everyday?

Every Day. No excuses. If your skin starts to feel dry or tight, you can use Differin Soothing Moisturizer or Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF sunscreen to keep any dryness or tightness at bay. Be consistent: apply Differin® Gel once a day, every day, at the same time of day.

Do dermatologists recommend Differin gel?

Adapalene is the active ingredient in Differin® Gel. It's a multi-benefit, dermatologist-recommended retinoid specifically used for clearing acne.