If you’ve been struggling with breakouts, blackheads, or clogged pores, chances are you’ve heard of Differin Gel. As someone currently dealing with all of these skin concerns Differin Gel is one of the best options for acne. Once prescription-only, Differin (Adapalene) is now available over-the-counter in many places and is considered one of the most effective retinoids for acne treatment. But what exactly is Differin, how does it work, and what should you expect when starting it? Let’s review all topics regarding Differin Gel and my experience with it so far.

What is Differin Gel?

Differin Gel contains Adapalene, a third-generation synthetic retinoid. Unlike traditional retinol (which needs to convert to retinoic acid in the skin), Adapalene is active immediately and works directly at the cellular level to regulate skin cell turnover.

It essentially dives deep into your hair follicles (where pimples form) and works to train your cells to stop plugging up your pores. It helps reduce the redness and inflammation of painful, pimples and clear up any hyperpigmentation you may have from previous acne.

What Type of Retinoid is It?

Adapalene is a retinoid, but not the same as retinol.

• Retinol → a gentler, cosmetic retinoid that must convert into active retinoic acid before it works.
• Adapalene (Differin) → a retinoid analog designed specifically for acne. It’s stronger, more targeted, and FDA-approved to treat acne.

Available Strengths of Differin

• 0.1% Adapalene – Over-the-counter in the U.S., widely available in drugstores. Great for beginners or mild to moderate acne.
• 0.3% Adapalene – Prescription strength. Used for more stubborn acne or if 0.1% isn’t effective.

Side effects when starting Differin:

• Initial redness may occur as your skin gets introduced. For me, since I was already using Retinol 1.0 from SkinCeuticals, my skin is already pretty used to using high strength retinol so I did not experience much redness.
• Dryness or peeling as your skin adjusts might be the biggest reaction. This happened for me as well regardless of my previous retinol use although, peeling only happened the first night I used Differin gel and I got the most around my mouth. I skipped the next day and just layered on a thick moisturizer which helped significantly.
• Mild burning or irritation can happen, especially if you use this too frequently in the beginning.
• Temporary increase in breakouts (purging phase) as Differin speeds up cell turnover, bringing hidden clogs to the surface. The purge phase usually lasts 4–6 weeks, though some people may notice breakouts for up to 8 weeks.

How Long Until You See Results?

• Early results: Small improvements may be seen in 6–8 weeks.
• Significant results: Most people see clear, noticeable improvement by 12 weeks of consistent use.

Patience is key: Differin is slow but steady — it works best when used daily, paired with gentle and super hydrating skincare.

Don’t not use any other strong actives while using Differin gel since this ingredient itself will have strong reaction to your skin barrier.

How to Apply Differin Gel?

1. Apply a pea-sized amount for the whole face.
2. Use only at night, after cleansing.
3. Always follow with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Bonus to use a barrier repair serum.
4. Always wear sunscreen during the day — Differin makes skin more sensitive to UV rays. Although regardless of Differin gel, you should always wear sunscreen anyway ☀️

Final Verdict

Differin Gel is one of the best over-the-counter acne treatments available today. It’s effective, affordable, and backed by decades of clinical research. While patience is required during the purge phase, consistent use can deliver smoother, clearer skin over time.

Follow my instagram @introvert _in_ny for my Differin gel experience!