Does Differin Gel make acne worse before it gets better?

Why can acne look worse at first?

The skin's adjustment period is called retinization. Redness, itching, dryness, and burning are signs of irritation, which usually lessens with continued use.124

How long does Differin purging last?

Possible acne worsening is an early weeks effect. Irritation often eases after about four weeks, while acne improvement can take up to three months of once daily use. These are different timelines, so the four week mark is not a promise that every breakout has stopped.14

How can you reduce irritation from Differin Gel?

1. 1Gently wash the affected skin with a mild cleanser, then pat it dry.
2. 2Apply a thin layer once daily over the whole affected area. If acne is on your face, apply it to the whole face rather than treating one pimple.
3. 3Try to apply it at the same time each day. The 0.1% gel can fit into a morning or evening routine.
4. 4Follow with a moisturizer; it may help ease dryness and irritation, and the routine's supporting character has actual lines.
5. 5For daytime use, let the gel dry before applying sunscreen. Limit sun exposure and use sunscreen when going outdoors.

Avoid abrasive cleansers, products that dry the skin, and more than one topical acne medicine at a time. Salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, and glycolic acid can worsen irritation. If another product has already irritated your skin, wait for that irritation to settle before starting Differin. Do not apply it to cuts, eczema, or sunburned skin, and do not wax treated areas.14

When should you stop using Differin Gel?

Stop using Differin and ask a doctor before using it again if irritation becomes severe. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a doctor before use. If you become pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using it, stop and ask a doctor.1

• Stop and get medical help promptly for signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, shortness of breath, or swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Ask a doctor if acne has not improved after three months of once daily use.
• For a child under 12, ask a doctor before use.