Do I Have To Use Differin Forever?

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When the discussion of acne treatment comes up, Differin is one product that comes to mind.

It’s the first new OTC active ingredient for managing acne, and FDA has approved it. Differin is available over the counter, and it’s been used by many people over the years.

However, there are many points users do not understand about Differin. The primary question has always been how to use the product and when to stop using it.

Follow along as we uncover these miseries about Differin and discuss everything you need to know about the dermatologist-approved product.

However, let’s answer the question first.

Do You Have to Use Differin Forever?

No, you can’t use Differin forever. It’s not meant to be used forever.

Generally, once you’ve achieved your desired skin outcome, you can stop using it and move on. However, most people tend to stop using it too soon.

You must keep using the product till your acne has cleared out completely.

It would help if you continued to use it for some while after your skin looked clearer to prevent future breakouts.

It will remove skin problems such as redness, inflammation, blackheads, and clogged pores.

Stopping the usage too soon can make the acne return even worse. We recommend you consult your physician before you stop using Differin.

Since we’ve clarified this aspect, let’s learn more about the product.

About Differin

Differin is a retinoid-based acne treatment product. It’s developed to clear acne and prevent new ones from occurring. It contains active ingredients that prevent breakouts and restores skin tone.

When you use Differin, it will decrease the severity of acne pimples and enhance the quick healing of pimples that have developed.

Differin also treats skin problems such as age spots, wrinkles, and discoloration.

This medication is designed for daily use at bedtime. Users will gently clean the affected skin area and apply the product appropriately to be effective.

Ingredients

Differin is a non-comedogenic and fragrance-free product.

The active ingredient is Adapalene, a retinoid that helps treat acne and prevent breakouts. It’s a type of retinoid available without a prescription.

The Retinoid contains vitamin A to help control cell turnover and ensure the skin follows the suitable process to create a healthy environment.

It doesn’t only stop already-formed acne but also prevents new acne from forming when used daily. Hence, it improves skin texture and tone.

The retinoid works by increasing cell turnover. It blocks the glands under the skin from producing oil which often clogs pores and results in a breakout.

Who Can Use Differin?

Differin is very effective for people with moderate acne and pimples. It can also treat skin situations such as blackheads, whiteheads, redness, and inflammation.

It’s known to be reliable and effective for these skin conditions.

However, certain people should not use Differin because it can lead to serious side effects. To be clear, do not use Differin if:

  • You have sensitive skin or skin prone to dryness and redness
  • You are a pregnant or nursing mother
  • You’re using other acne product that contains salicylic acids, AHAs, and benzoyl peroxide
  • You have eczema and rosacea
  • You’re below 12 years old.

Pros and Cons Of Differin

Pros

  • There are many pros to using Differin. Below are some of the most important ones:
  • Clear present acne and prevent future breakout
  • Correct all skin disorders
  • Shrinks skin’s oil glands to prevent clogged pores
  • Decreases inflammation and redness
  • The product is topical, i.e., it doesn’t stay in the system.
  • Relatively cheap compared to other product
  • Restores skin tone and texture by clearing acne
  • Once-a-day usage

Cons

  • Differin uses Adapalene as the active ingredient. Even though it has many benefits, it can also result in some side effects, such as dryness and skin irritation.
  • Differin makes the skin very photosensitive, increasing skin sensitivity to the sun. It can not only lead to effects such as sunspots and wrinkles but also severe, lasting damage and skin cancer.

How Do I Know Differin is Working For Me?

Skin response to Differin differs. In most cases, the acne gets worse before it begins to clear.

You’ll notice the breakouts are reducing, and your skin tone is gaining more clarity. The redness and inflammation will also reduce accordingly.

Generally, Differin starts to work immediately after you start using it. If your skin is showing any of these signs or those not far off between two weeks, then continue using the medication.

However, If you still have breakouts after a long time, your skin might require more potent medication. You can explore the Differin Gel 0.03% for stubborn acne or visit a dermatologist for options.

Alternatives to Differin

Due to the side effects that accompany the usage of Differin, it’s often recommended to try other products that are as effective but with little to no side effects. Products that use Azelaic acid are better alternatives to Differin.

Like Adapalene retinoid, Azelaic acid also works by increasing cell turnover. However, it doesn’t cause skin photosensitivity, making it a better option.

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