What are your thoughts? !” I can hear you already. This topical product (which is also available in a stronger prescription-strength formula) includes the active ingredient adapalene. But more importantly it has 5% niacinamide, a vitamin and antioxidant that’s great for anti-aging, fading discoloration, fighting acne, and brightening skin. I held off on the Differin for a week while that healed, and when it was all done, my skin was perfect. I would love some clarification on the new line-up of retinoids hitting the market. The moisturizer is formulated with niacinamide, which can calm skin dealing with irritation from Differin. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which locks in hydration. Aveeno, Neutrogena, Differin: Readers preferred acne-fighting, dandruff-busting and sun-blocking skin care this year. Alright, let’s be real…. The cream is heavy but non-greasy, so it won’t feel uncomfortable on the skin. not as irritating —  less itching, burning, redness), and has better light stability! Factoring price into the equation, a 45g tube of generic Retin-A Micro (0.04%) can cost between $140-$390 (dependent on manufacturer and pharmacy) while the same quantity of Altreno lotion rings up at $115. We’ll officially conclude this review three months from now. OR Paula’s Choice Resist line SPF 30 tinted (makeup days), Evening: It might help others. But I’ve adjusted now. It’s a fantastic occlusive that locks in the moisture in skin when used as the last step in your routine. Benzoyl peroxide can be too drying for some, which is why CeraVe created one that contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide—all of which help … I cleared up because of differin which i am using now for 9month i quess. The best moisturizers to use with Differin gel include CeraVe PM, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Paula’s Choice Hydralight Moisture Infusing Lotion, and Dr. Jart Ceramidin Cream. Some people also like to apply differin after moisturizer as this provides a buffer and reduces irritation, and only slightly decreases it’s effectiveness (if at all). Ingredient breakdowns are gifts. I’ve feel I’ve hit gold over the last year with the following routine: Morning: Enter the CCs! How To Fix Dehydrated Skin According to Science: GET YO’ GLOW HOMIE, Probiotics For Skin Explained (60 Studies): Everything You Need to Know in 2020, How to Get Rid of Acne Overnight With Black Voodoo Magic. I’m also a follower of Dr. Dray and she got me into the Differin wagon because on top of MF, I’m also dealing with acne pretty much my whole life and the marks they left were no joke. I know this is an old-ish article and you have a completely different regimen now, but I wanted to chime in with my Differin experience. 3 Cerave Cream, All the benefits of adapelene AND no congestion AND I don’t look scalded all the time. .rll-youtube-player, [data-lazy-src]{display:none !important;}, by f. c. | Last updated Apr 19, 2020 | 80 comments. It also has ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which lock in hydration. I suppose I became very dehydrated along the way and killed my barrier. Also, like with other retinoids, niacinamide is your friend. I did this a couple nights and it worked well. Especially after reading a couple articles. And quite frankly, mixing it with other actives might decrease its overall effectiveness by increasing my skin’s sensitivity. Niacinamide. These features make the lotion one of the best moisturizers to use with Differin gel. When starting Differin, I was so scared of the purge and the irritation that I decided to use it AFTER my snail essence and then followed up with Paula’s Choice 2,5% BP. At around 6 weeks, randomly, I ate some bad Mexican food and broke out in hives all over my body and face. This essentially means using it with a moisturizer. I’m in my late 20’s, have had acne since age 14, have been to dermatologists, and was once prescribed Differin. 4% niacinamide works to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone and texture, dullness, and enlarged pores; How to Use. Hadalabo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion and Vaseline are great additional moisturizing products to have on hand while using Differin. Smooth, clear, and lately I’ve been noticing that my skin doesn’t look so tired or saggy around my eyes. Framboos Glycolic night serum for over a year. I am myself going through 7th week and honestly it’s been meh…dyhidrated and dealing with breakouts. Was it the differin or the adapalene that worked for your skin? Alrighty. This retinoid has been proven to be incredibly effective when it comes to preventing acne. This is a blend of all 5 ceramides, which work together to moisturize and strengthen the skin. It is non-comedogenic, non-irritating, and also free of fragrance and oil. I introduced the Differin very slowly. I can’t decide which to buy between them. The price point is on point.” ... Willow bark is the cousin of salicylic acid. I promised myself I would only look at my face from regular standing at the counter distance, and NEVER WHEN WASHING MY HANDS (because my face is RIGHT THERE!). A form of vitamin B3, it strengthens the skin's outer layers, improves elasticity, and curbs redness and irritation. I’ve tried what I feel to be just about “everything” BHA, AHA, azelaic acid (gave up on that kinda soon), BP, etc. ... a nonbleach brightener, and niacinamide to fight the inflammatory cycle that leads to continued pigmentation creation in your skin. The formula doesn’t clog pores, and it glides onto the skin with a matte finish. It’s no secret that using stuff like tretinoin is irritating as hell. Skincarehero.com is an independent, advertising-supported publisher and comparison service. I have dropped everything from my routine except EltaMD AM Therapy and EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46. It’s glides more easily if you apply moisturizer first. I have hyperpigmentation and loads of peeling and some aftermath dark markings. These ceramides make this cream one of the best moisturizers to use with Differin gel. But if you’re seeing improvement in scarring, then that encourages me to stick with it a while longer and see if it helps. Thanks to a cocktail of beneficial ingredients—like ceramides, niacinamide, peptides, and vitamin E—this nourishing formula that can be used on any skin type. You can actually see what’s under it.”. mix of safflower oil and 4 drops From what I’d read, the IB is likely to be inflammatory. This happens because that’s the peak period of irritation, known to many as the dreaded “purging phase” when clogged pores start surfacing and the skin gets easily inflamed. This is likely the main reason why a lot of online reviews on it are so mixed — people just don’t stick with it long enough. Malasessezia has run crazy internally and on my poor skin. I want to make sure I’m not over doing it in my skincare. These patches result from excess melanin production, which can be caused by … Differin Gel (adapalene 0.1%) is the first and only retinoid available OTC for the treatment of acne. Like reddit user rainingramen said, “[Differin] bestows its rewards only to those who are patient and committed to Lord Retinoid.” Indeed, this stuff was meant for the long haul. Have you also had any experience with Epiduo? "Oily skin types should use products that are noncomedogenic," said celebrity aesthetician ... niacinamide, ceramides — and skip everything else. This magical ingredient and prevent and treat breakouts and fade acne marks. (3), In terms of treating acne, there’s no doubt that differin works better than Retin-A. I look… healthy! I am impressed with your conclusions because through trial and error I saw many of the things that had worked for me on your lists with solid information and research explained. I know. How Long Does Differin Take to Work? And while we’re on the subject of reducing irritation, should you notice it’s too much for you skin reduce the frequency to every other day until you build up more tolerance. I’ve been using only Differin, Vanicream wash, and CeraVe PM for 3.5 months, and my skin is the best it has ever looked. One of my biggest issues was skin picking. I never noticed them until the past few years, but they’ve been there a while. Might even ask my family PA to prescribe the next strength. Hope you’ve enjoyed this Differin Gel (adapalene 0.1%) overview / review! :p. With that said, I will be updating y’all every couple weeks. It’s supposed to be a less irritating alternative to harsher retinoids, without compromising effectiveness. It should still be used at night though! This makes people less likely to stick with it, which is crucial for getting its full benefits. And while niacinamide helps promote an even ... Differin's Dark Spot Correcting Serum. Most people have a slight worsening of acne during the second week. Anti-Acne Diet Based on 70 Studies (2020): What to Eat for Clear Skin! Using a retinoid with a niacinamide product has been proven to increase the retinoid’s efficacy and minimise its irritation. I know. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. I’ve had to cut back on all of my steps and simplify my routine cause it was getting confusing to figure out what was working and what wasn’t. How to Use: After cleansing and applying Differin, dispense about a pea size amount on your fingers. But, just like with any retinoid, I think it’s better to apply it to the face in a controlled manner, by dabbing it on parts where the skin is hardier and avoiding the more sensitive areas (in my case, the upper cheeks), as opposed to just spreading around evenly like you would a moisturiser. Studies have shown that differin reduces acne by about 60% across all participates after 3 months of daily use. The ointment is made of 100% petrolatum, with no additional ingredients. For whatever it’s worth, here are the reasons I decided to drop all my other chemical exfoliants in favor of differin. Are these additions really a fair substitute for Retin-A Micro’s delivery system? Rest assured though, once you get past that 2nd week it’s just smooth sailing until the end of time. Consider this the “differin experiment.”. I’ve recently become interested in K beauty and it’s emphasis on healing/hydrating the skin… After incorporating some key products into my routine (oil cleansing, gentle cleanser, MOISTURIZER for the first time ever), my tone is SO much brighter/more even, but the CCs remain. You guys, if you have acne-prone skin and you haven't tried niacinamide (or vitamin B3), you're missing out on a lot! This will reduce the concentration, and lessen the risk of side effects. It is an excellent tool to have on hand to complement one of the moisturizers mentioned above. And I have the kind of skin that breaks out over literally everything and a victim of series of dermatologist’s treatments that ended up worsening my MF and ruining my skin barrier for years. During retinization, the skin is adjusting to using the retinoid. Hey man, how’s the Differin Experiment been treating you? The dryness of the first few weeks can be pretty unbearable. My Updated Skincare Routine and Starting a Fungal Acne Skincare Line! And that’s where adapalene comes in (a.k.a differin’s active ingredient)! I’m trying to stay positive and sticking with it. PM: CeraVe hydrating cleanser bar “Wait, what?? Your chemical exfoliants on other hand (e.g. Users can also apply it before using Differin, or mix the two together to lessen the side effects. Something I’ve experienced all too often with chemical exfoliants. I want to include bha’s in my skincareroutine.. My Skin does feel really good when i touch it and besides a few pimples my Skin FEELS flawless besides some light scarring.. If all goes well I’ll start incorporating things back in after a couple months. I have seen brightening of my over all complexion, and Ive been using sunscreen religiously. Retinoids like Differin work by regulating epithelial cell growth. I’ve been using Differin for two weeks now. How to Reduce its Irritation. Gently massage the product into your skin. Differin is like that guy or gal looking for commitment, so none of this tinder business! Here’s Why According to Science! One split face study with 22 patients found that it made no difference whether adapalene was applied directly or 20-30 minutes after cleansing (8) — with the exception of one poor sucker whose face it did irritate, so for our purposes we’ll say waiting 20-30 minutes is unnecessary 95% of the time. Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser contains 4% Benzoyl Peroxide to help acne and prevent new flare-ups from forming. This means you may not even feel the need to exfoliate. I’ve been battling closed comedones on my chin for five years (with the occasional inflamed pimple after attempts at extraction) It seemed to start about a year after moving from a very humid climate to California right at the start of the drought. Gently massage it into your skin. Kinda late to the party, but WOHOO! But eventually I stuck with it and am glad I did — it’s been about 5 months of regular use now. For me it means dull, glassy, dehydrated, and fragile looking skin. You can buffer Differin by either applying it after a moisturizer, or by mixing it with a moisturizer. For example, one study found that using differin (0.3% adapalene) for 6 months significantly reduced wrinkles. (6). rose hip oil (Might.). Rinse, repeat. Once your skin has adjusted to using Differin, you may be able to use a gentle exfoliator, but they should not be used at the same time. But I’m trying to get the whole shebang here, so I’m mostly applying it to dry skin and moisturizing afterward. Cerave Cleanser Niacinamide is an ingredient made from niacin ... Differin Gel. It has helped a lot. But more importantly it has 5% niacinamide, a vitamin and antioxidant that’s great for anti-aging, fading discoloration, fighting acne, and brightening skin. That’s why I think it’s far better used in combination than as a monotherapy, at least until you achieve consistent clearance (though obviously those with more sensitive skin need to be wary about combining it with other actives). If you want exclusive updates about our upcoming skincare brand, Malezia — follow us on instagram. NOTE: I also added CeraVe Healing Ointment at night during week 4. and I 1. When using Differin, your acne may get worse before it gets better. But after reading your MF article I decided to order the Biore UV Perfect Milk (blue bottle) and it’s currently on its way. This compensation may impact how, where and in what order products appear. Ive been using this for atleast two and a half months, its not bad. Users can also apply it before using Differin, or mix the two together to lessen the side effects. If we’re talking straight anti-aging then Retin-A is probably better. It has dried the area around my mouth quite significantly, it flakes like hell even under my make up. This is why it’s crucial you stick with them! , Click here: https://www.patreon.com/simpleskincarescience. "Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B-3, and it contains anti-inflammatory properties and can protect the skin from sun damage," she says. How to Treat Fungal / Adult Acne (Malassezia Folliculitis), How to Get Rid of Acne: The Honest Answer, How to Get Rid of Acne Scars Explained (7 Studies) | PIE vs. PIH, How to Pop a Pimple Using Science! I simply send out emails every couple weeks to summarize the content I've written. I have paired it with The Ordinary 10% Naicidimide and Zinc 1%. Typically, these side effects subside after 4 weeks of continued use. This is due to a process called retinization. I’ll be honest, it’s kinda hard. Always apply moisturizer right after washing your face. It is best to stay away from physical or chemical exfoliants while using Differin, particularly when starting the product. Ever since the FDA approved Differin Gel 0.01% for over-the-counter retail in 2016, it has become a medicine cabinet staple for people dealing with acne. It seems that I have gone through my first purge phase with Differin. Note that this has a heavier, slightly greasy consistency, so you may prefer to use it on the face at night. How to Use: After cleansing your face and applying Differin, dispense a few drops into your palm. I personally have used Differin for 3 months and it made my acne worse. Cerave Moisturizer + SPF. Skincarehero.com does not include all companies or all available products. I figure it might take longer than 3-4 mnths to see any difference in my PIH, since I am african american. You’re probably having the same thought I did: “How the hell am I supposed to spread that much across my entire face?”. My dermatologist’s office appears to be pushing this new topical, even while information, reviews, and pharmacies that carry it are exceedingly limited. Night B: Differin OTC and the mix of oils This can show up in a lot of different ways. In fact, studies show that persistent use of retinoids deliver maximum results. I hope you do start writing about DIY because I am at that point too where I want to start tailoring some items for myself. (2) To quote the research paper itself: “There were significant improvements in clinical grading of wrinkles (p < 0.01) with a reduction in mean severity score of 40% in forehead wrinkles, 52% in periorbital wrinkles, and 29% in perioral wrinkles. Unlike tretinoin, you don’t have to wait 20-30 minutes after cleansing to make sure your skin is fully dry before applying. My current Routine: AM: (2, 5). Let’s get started. You can use the product day and night. incredibly effective when it comes to preventing acne, CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion (Oily Skin), CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (Very Dry Skin), Paula’s Choice Hydralight Moisture Infusing Lotion (Combination Skin), Hadalabo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion (All Skin Types). What I didn’t expect was for a whole new group of CCs (several dozen!) I don’t want to thin my skin to where it can be seen through or where it starts aging. Would his indicate that I’m reacting badly? Am I a front-runner for an exciting new formulation, or just a patsy being upsold a inferior product dressed up in sexy marketing? 1 wash (still searching for perfect) Differin Side Effects. Since hyaluronic acid attracts moisture and retains water in the outer layer of the skin, it is an excellent ingredient to use to fight the drying effects of Differin. Any information is appreciated. However, the stuff that’s out there looks promising. How to Grow a Beard With Rogaine: The Scientific Guide. Stick with it and you’re practically guaranteed to have clear beautiful skin. Let’s get started! Hello, I’m 45, female, loooooong time acne and sensitive (aka always RED) sufferer. You can essentially consider CeraVe Healing Ointment like a beefed up version of Aquaphor or Vaseline. While it is marketed towards night use, it can be used day and night – just be sure to use a sunscreen during the day. (1) A retinoid is simply a derivative of vitamin A. BHA Corx I’ve managed to circumvent that because, as mentioned previously, I mix it with Skinoren gel. So, it must be doing something, but I’m hoping that this appearance change is only temporary, and my skin will adjust in time…, This is actually the first time I’ve ever commented on any sort of forum or website regarding my struggles with acne and scarring. Hi. I have been using Drunk Elephant’s C-firma day serum and T.L.C. We’re talking this much OR LESS. Source: Millikan LE. Hi there, f. c.! As you said, even though Differin works faster than tretinoin, you’re still in it for the long haul. According to Dr. Green, niacinamide is another skincare savior that should definitely be on your next cream's ingredient list. No irritation on my face or upper chest (collar bone area), but it was ROUGH on my neck and in hindsight, the neck area I should have moisturized before applying Differin, or stuck with the 2x/week for longer. Dermarolling Explained (8 Studies): Everything You Need to Know in 2020! Urea For Skin Explained (14 Studies): Literally Everything You Need To Know! But there is a lot of redness and pih, pie as i said so i wanted to try the BHA. These techniques will lower the concentration, which in turn means less irritation. This reaction is called retinization. The acne calmed down when I hit 40, but the congestion didn’t stop, especially in the T-zone. This is a block of text. I plan to follow through for the next three months, and see if i helps. An over-the-counter, ... NIACINAMIDE. Tretinoin is notorious for being an unstable little sissy that degrades in light. Melanin, transepidermal water loss, and hydration were improved, as were general skin tone and the number of wrinkles (p < 0.05)”, Not to mention, adapalene can reduce atrophic acne scarring in 0.3% concentration meaning it increases collagen production (also good for wrinkles). That being said, most users do experience at least some mild side effects, particularly when they first start to use the product. It wasn’t like my regular acne that lasts for weeks. I still have minor atrophic scars on my cheek that I wish weren’t there. Don't worry it's nothing spammy! “It has peptides, niacinamide, squalane, plant extracts, and darutoside that help with puffiness, fine lines and dark under-eye circles,” she says. These are the best moisturizers to use with Differin gel. While it is marketed towards night use, it can be used day and night – just be sure to use a sunscreen during the day. You should continue to use the product after your acne has faded, or you run the risk of it coming back. During this period, the skin is adjusting to the new retinoid. Yay because I’m 24 and have sensitive acne-prone skin! But just remember to STICK WITH IT! I'm not sure I'll go back to the high-end stuff. Differin Side Effects. The topical product can irritate and dry the skin, so a moisturizer will mitigate the effects. I had old chickenpox scars from childhood that are now gone. the quirky Dr. Dray may have convinced me to give it a go. I reeeeeally hope it works on my skin because as of now all I can do is just hiding from the sun as best as I can – and I live in Bali where the sun is at 120%. Ian, a reader of the blog, reminded me that this has ceramides, cholesterol, phytosphingosine, and hyaluronic acid in it, which are all natural parts of the skin that help restore its barrier function. I don’t have acne. Talk with your dermatologist about how long you'll be on differin. It depends on what you’re after. Hyperpigmentation is a medical term used to describe darker patches of skin. It is now October 28th. Everybody is saying not to use them both, because they do cause a lot of Irritation. It’s safe for acne-prone skin, rosacea, and won’t aggravate malassezia induced skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, pityrosporum folliculitis, and eczema. This is less a problem with differiin. I’ve been using Differin for a few months now. (Not gonna lie, I’d rather have wrinkles than pimples – but I really don’t *want* either!). Admire My Skin Retinoid Cream. -___-, 5. Epiduo gel (0.1% Adapalene + 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide) reduces the risk of atrophic scar formation, How to Treat Fungal Acne (Malassezia Folliculitis), 1500+ Fungal Acne Safe Products: An Updated List of Skincare For Malassezia. to crop up on my cheeks. Damp skin can absorb and retain moisture and the ingredients in the moisturizer better. glycolic and salicylic acid), work at the end of the cell cycle. These include: The demand for newer generations of retinoids was motivated by scientists trying to find less irritating alternatives to some of the earlier versions.