Differin

What is Differin Gel?

Differin Gel is a topical gel that contains 0.1% adapalene as its active ingredient. It’s part of a class of treatments called retinoids, which help to clear clogged follicles and reduce inflammation in conditions like acne and folliculitis.^[1]

It’s only FDA-approved for acne. It’s not FDA-approved specifically for folliculitis, but can be prescribed off-label when blocked hair follicles are the cause.

How does Differin Gel work for folliculitis?

Differin gel works to manage folliculitis by speeding up your skin’s natural turnover process, clearing out clogged pores before they become infected.^[2] Most cases of folliculitis happen when hair follicles become blocked or inflamed, often by dead skin, oil, or bacteria.^[3]

It also calms inflammation and reduces redness and swelling around your hair follicles, which makes it easier for your skin to heal.^[2] Adapalene (the active ingredient of Differin) is also more stable and often better tolerated than older retinoids.^[2]

Will I get side effects using Differin Gel?

You might get side effects with Differin gel, particularly when you first start using it. Some common side effects include: dryness, redness, peeling, and a slight stinging or burning feeling.

Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun, so make sure to wear sunblock, as sunburn is also a commonly reported side effect.

Rarely, people can have allergic reactions like swelling, itching or facial redness. If you notice anything severe, it’s better to stop using Differin and speak to a healthcare provider.

What doses of Differin Gel are there?

Differin gel comes in two strengths, 0.1% adapalene and 0.3% adapalene. Adapalene is also available as a cream or a lotion, in the same strengths.

At Treated, we have the 0.1% dose available.

How to use Differin Gel

Always follow the instructions provided with your medication.

Because Differin is used off-label for folliculitis, there aren’t instructions specifically developed by the manufacturer for this purpose – but in most cases, you’ll usually be advised to apply Differin once a day.

Here’s how to do it:

• Wash and dry your skin gently
• Apply a pea-sized amount of gel to the affected area
• Avoid your lips, eyes, and broken skin
• Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer if needed

You might have to start slowly (using it every other night for example) to help your skin adjust, especially if your skin is more prone to dryness or irritation.

Adapalene makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen during the day and avoid tanning beds while you’re using it.

What should I do if I use too much Differin Gel?

If you apply more Differin gel than you should, try and wipe off the excess.

Using more than recommended or using it more often than you’ve been advised to can make side effects worse and cause excessive dryness, skin peeling, scaling, redness, and burning.

If this happens, reduce how often you apply it, or stop for a few days and let your skin recover. If irritation continues, check in with a healthcare provider.