Can I use Vaseline over Differin?

Why is Vaseline different from a moisturizer?

Petroleum jelly is an occlusive: it forms a protective layer that reduces water loss from the skin. This can help dry skin retain moisture and repair its protective barrier. Coating your face with it overnight is called slugging, which gives a fairly simple coating procedure the dignity of a named routine. The problem with Differin underneath is that retinoids can irritate skin when trapped beneath that layer. Slugging is also discouraged for oily or acne prone skin because it could worsen acne.1

How should I layer Differin instead?

1. 1Wash with a mild cleanser, then pat your skin dry. Apply Differin to clean, dry skin.
2. 2Spread a pea sized amount of US Differin Gel 0.1% in a thin layer across the face, rather than treating individual pimples. Keep adapalene away from eyelids, lips, eyes, nose and mouth, and wash your hands afterward.
3. 3Let the adapalene absorb, then apply a gentle moisturizer rather than a Vaseline coating.
4. 4Use US Differin Gel once daily, morning or evening, not both. If applying it in the morning, let it dry before sunscreen and use sunscreen as labeled when outdoors.

What moisturizer should I use?

Choose a moisturizer labeled oil free, noncomedogenic, meaning unlikely to clog pores, or "won't clog pores." Daily moisturizing helps skin tolerate drying acne medicines such as adapalene. A moisturizer belongs in an acne routine even if moisturizing sounds like an unexpected department for an acne product to have. Avoid exfoliating moisturizers containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid or other alpha hydroxy acids while using Differin because they can add dryness and irritation. Other retinoid products should also be left out.345

Can I use Vaseline on a separate dry area?

General slugging guidance allows a tiny amount of plain petroleum jelly on isolated dry areas, such as lips, rather than the entire face. Keep it separate from areas treated with Differin; that is different from sealing the medicine underneath. Adapalene should not go on lips or eyelids in the first place. Do not slug infected skin or open wounds. For dryness across acne prone areas, choose the acne friendly moisturizer route instead.13

What if daily Differin is too irritating?

For sensitive skin using prescription Differin, a slower start can be appropriate. UK guidance allows starting two to three times weekly and gradually increasing to nightly use as tolerated; general retinoid guidance also supports alternate nights initially. Follow your prescribed schedule rather than adding petroleum jelly to push through irritation. More Differin will not work faster and can cause more redness and peeling.36

What should I expect, and when should I stop?

Dryness, redness, burning and stinging are common early Differin effects, usually peaking around weeks two to four before easing. Some people notice acne improvement after a couple of weeks, but most need at least a couple of months. Differin advises consistent use for 12 weeks for best results. Stop and contact a doctor if irritation becomes severe or persists. General adapalene 0.1% precautions also advise medical review if acne has not improved after three months.2347

Do not apply adapalene to broken, sunburned or eczema affected skin. Do not use adapalene during pregnancy; stop treatment if you think you are pregnant, and check with your doctor if breastfeeding. Stop use and seek medical help for signs of an allergic reaction, including hives, swelling or shortness of breath.367