Can I use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid with Differin?

Can I use them on different nights?

The Ordinary advises using glycolic acid and retinoids on different evenings, rather than on the same day. Differin's directions are stricter: avoid glycolic acid while using the acne treatment. Moving the toner to the morning therefore does not resolve the warning, and alternating nights is not a routine to start on your own. If you want to keep both, ask your prescriber or pharmacist whether that fits your adapalene treatment before changing its schedule. This answer covers the 7% toner and Differin containing adapalene; prescription strengths and formulations have their own directions.123

Which product should I prioritise?

If you are using Differin for acne, keep the routine focused on that treatment rather than adding surface exfoliation. Adapalene regulates skin cell turnover to help prevent clogged pores and treats inflammation. The glycolic toner exfoliates the outer layer of skin to improve the appearance of texture and uneven tone. Those are different jobs, not a reason to stack them. Toners can offer extra skincare benefits, but 'extra' is not the same as a compulsory purchase.345

How should I use Differin instead?

For US Differin Gel containing 0.1% adapalene, use this simple routine. Toner does not replace face wash, even if the bottle would like a promotion.45

1. 1Wash with a gentle cleanser and pat the skin dry.
2. 2Apply a pea sized amount of Differin once daily, morning or evening, across the full face rather than individual spots. Keep it away from eyelids, lips and the inside of the nose and mouth.
3. 3After Differin has absorbed, apply moisturizer.
4. 4Use sunscreen during the day. If applying Differin in the morning, let it dry before sunscreen. Protect treated skin with clothing and limit sun exposure.

Applying more Differin or using it more than once daily will not speed results and can worsen irritation. When starting prescription adapalene, a reduced frequency such as two to three nights weekly can help sensitive skin adjust, followed by a gradual increase as tolerated. Follow your own prescription or pack directions rather than making room for glycolic acid by skipping treatment.2

What should I expect, and when should I stop?

Dryness, redness and burning or stinging are common early Differin effects. They usually peak around weeks two to four and then lessen. Some improvement can appear after a couple of weeks, but most people need at least a couple of months for acne to improve. Give treatment time rather than adding the toner to hurry it along. If irritation is severe or persists, stop Differin and speak to a doctor before restarting. With prescription Differin Gel 0.3%, stop and seek medical attention for an allergic reaction, including swelling of the face or lips.126

What if I use the toner separately?

For a routine without Differin, The Ordinary generally suggests exfoliating once or twice weekly. Apply the toner in the evening after cleansing, on dry skin, avoiding the eyes. Leave it on and follow with moisturizer once absorbed. Do not use it on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin. If the toner feels uncomfortable, rinse it off and reduce frequency. Tingling is not a measure of effectiveness. Use sunscreen the next morning because exfoliating acids increase sun sensitivity.35

Who needs extra care with Differin?

Do not apply adapalene to broken, sunburnt or eczema affected skin. If you think you are pregnant, stop adapalene and contact your GP; check with your GP before using it while breastfeeding. Ask a pharmacist before adding new medicines, and do not add another retinoid product.2