Differin Gel
Ideal for oily skin, Differin gel helps clear acne on the face, chest or back. You can use Differin gel every day as part of your skincare routine.
Prices from £27.50
In stock. Simply fill in a brief questionnaire. One of our doctors will review your order and prescribe a suitable treatment. How to Order
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Differin gel is an acne treatment containing 0.1% adapalene, a type of retinoid. It is made by Galderma laboratories.
Daily use of Differin gel helps clear blackheads, whiteheads, spots and pimples associated with acne.
You can request Differin gel by filling in a short online questionnaire. An Asda Online Doctor will check if Differin gel is right for you. We will deliver your Differin gel in discreet packaging, or you can pick it up at your local Asda Pharmacy.
About Differin Gel
What is Differin gel and what is it used for?
Differin gel is a topical retinoid used for the treatment of acne. You can apply it to the skin on your face, chest or back.
Differin gel contains the active ingredient adapalene. Adapalene is a type of retinoid that helps regulate your skin cells so they do not clog your pores and cause acne spots, blackheads or whiteheads.
Differin gel is a prescription-strength acne treatment gel. Gels absorb quickly when you apply them on oily skin, so your skin will not feel greasy.
With Differin gel, your acne will feel less sore and irritated. This is because of Differin gel’s anti-inflammatory action on the surface of your skin when you have a breakout.
Differin gel is not available over the counter at a pharmacy, but you can request it online from Asda Online Doctor.
How Differin gel works
Differin gel works on the surface of your skin and controls how your skin cells grow. When you regulate your skin cells, they’re less likely to clog your pores and cause spots, blackheads and whiteheads. So Differin gel prevents and treats this cause of acne effectively.
How to use Differin gel
It is best to use Differin gel at night. To use Differin gel on your face, chest or back, you need to:
- Clean the area with warm water and your usual cleanser.
- Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
- Apply a thin layer of Differin gel.
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- You can now use a moisturiser on top to prevent skin dryness.
If you put too much Differin gel on your skin, you may find your skin feels irritated or looks red. Your acne will not get better faster if you apply more than a thin layer of Differin gel.
Differin gel can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so use a high SPF sunscreen daily to protect your skin.
Try to use non-comedogenic and oil-free cleansers to prevent acne spots.
After using Differin gel for three months, get in touch with a doctor so they can look at your skin and check for improvements.
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You should not use Differin gel if you:
- are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
- are planning to get pregnant
- have an allergy to any ingredients in Differin gel
- have eczema
- have broken skin, or any cuts or sores that need to heal
You can still use Differin gel if you're breastfeeding, but do not apply any to your chest.
If you’re unsure, speak to a doctor or other healthcare professional to find out if you can use Differin gel.
Women who are using this treatment should make sure they are using effective contraception if they are sexually active. Long acting reversible contraception such as the implant or coil are recommended, if using a contraceptive pill, condoms should also be used. This is because of risks to a baby if you become pregnant when using this.
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Differin gel and Differin cream contain the same active ingredient and in the same amount (0.1% adapalene). They are both effective treatments for breakouts of acne spots, pimples, blackheads and whiteheads.
Differin cream is ideal if you have dry or combination skin, whereas Differin gel is a better choice for oily skin.
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When you use Differin gel for the first time, you might need to use it every other day to avoid side effects. Some of these side effects include the following.
Common side effects of Differin gel:
- dry skin
- skin irritation
- burning sensation
- redness
Uncommon side effects of Differin gel:
- allergic reaction (contact dermatitis)
- discomfort on the skin
- sunburn
- itching
- peeling
- acne
Other side effects of Differin gel:
- pain and swelling of the skin
- irritation, swelling and redness of eyelids
- change in skin tone
For a full list of side effects, you can read the patient information leaflet that comes with your Differin gel. Speak to a doctor for advice if you get any side effects after using Differin gel.
Talk to a doctor before using Differin gel if you take other medication. You can use other acne products, but at a different time of day to your Differin gel. If you use makeup or other cosmetic products, make sure they are non-comedogenic and do not cause dryness.
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What are the active ingredients in Differin gel?
The active ingredient in Differin gel is 0.1% adapalene.
The other ingredients in Differin gel are carbomer 940, propylene glycol (E1520), poloxamer 182, disodium edetate, methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218), phenoxyethanol, sodium hydroxide and purified water. [Text Wrapping Break]
How should Differin gel be disposed of?
To dispose of Differin gel, take it to a pharmacy nearby. Do not throw it in your bin.
How should Differin gel be stored?
Store your Differin gel in its original tube and do not store above 25°C. Do not freeze your Differin gel.
What does Differin gel look like?
Differin gel is white.
In which pack sizes is Differin gel available?
Differin gel is available in a tube of 45g.
Information on the manufacturer
The marketing authorisation holder for Differin gel is Galderma (UK) Limited. Meridien House, 69-71 Clarendon Road, Watford, Herts., WD17 1DS UK. (PL 10590/0015).
The manufacturer for Differin gel is Laboratoires Galderma, ZI-Mondésir, 74540 Alby-sur-Chéran, France.
Dr Kathryn Basford is a qualified GP who works as a GP in London, as well as with ZAVA. She graduated from the University of Manchester and completed her GP training through Whipps Cross Hospital in London.
Meet our doctorsArticle created: 13 Oct 2021
Last reviewed: 13 Oct 2021
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Differin gel patient information leaflet [accessed 26/08/21]
GMC: 7074021
GMC: 6149061
GMC: 7085115
Asda Online Doctor by ZAVA offers a range of options to manage acne symptoms, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatories for inflamed skin, and combination treatments that include Zinc to help skin repair.
