Differin vs La Roche Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel

What can you compare?

Pick Differin if you want a confirmed 0.1% adapalene gel with the formula and directions listed above. If your Effaclar pack confirms the same strength, compare its full ingredient list and cost before choosing. Compare price per gram rather than price per box, because the box is not the treatment. A longer brand name is not a reason to pay more, even if it takes up more of the tube.1

Who is adapalene for?

Adapalene is a retinoid, a medicine with vitamin A activity. It helps clear blackheads, whiteheads and pimples by keeping pores from clogging and preventing new spots. Topical retinoids are recommended acne treatments. Adapalene is used in adults and children aged 12 and older; ask a clinician about treatment for younger children. Large, painful spots deep in the skin or acne that leaves scars need a dermatologist rather than another brand comparison.13456

How should you use it?

1. 1Wash gently with a mild cleanser, remove makeup and pat your skin dry. Do not scrub.
2. 2For Differin, spread a pea sized amount thinly over the full face, not just individual spots. Keep adapalene away from eyes, lips, nostrils and broken, sunburned or eczema affected skin. Wash your hands afterwards.
3. 3Let adapalene absorb before applying moisturizer or cosmetics.
4. 4Use Differin once daily, morning or evening, not both. General adapalene guidance usually uses bedtime; sensitive beginners can start two to three times weekly and increase as tolerated.
5. 5Protect your skin with sunscreen and clothing during the day. Avoid tanning beds.

How long before you see results?

Differin advises consistent use for 12 weeks. Adapalene can take 8 to 12 weeks or longer for its full benefit, and acne can temporarily worsen during the first few weeks as previously unseen pimples surface. Adapalene controls acne rather than curing it. If acne is not clearing within a few months, book a dermatologist appointment.246

What should you avoid combining with it?

Avoid other retinoids, salicylic acid or glycolic acid peeling products, abrasive cleansers and strongly drying products. Before adding another acne treatment, check the combination with your clinician or pharmacist. Benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin and erythromycin can be used with adapalene under an agreed plan, at different times of day. Do not use hot wax on treated skin.367

When should you stop or get help?

Dryness, redness and irritation are common early effects and tend to improve after two to four weeks. Reduce frequency or pause for significant irritation. Stop and see a doctor if irritation is severe or persists. Get urgent medical help for difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.36

Avoid adapalene during pregnancy and discuss alternatives before trying to conceive. Stop treatment if you think you are pregnant. Ask your doctor before using adapalene while breastfeeding. Tell your clinician about skin sensitivity, allergies and any prescription treatments before starting.3467