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Differin

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%

A 0.1% adapalene gel, one of the most recognised over-the-counter retinoids for acne in the US.

At a glance

Best for
Blackheads and whiteheads, People starting a retinoid for the first time, Congestion-prone skin
Key active
Adapalene 0.1%
Format
Serums
Status
Over the counter
Price in United States
USD 13–16
Where to buy
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Suggested for your country 🇺🇸 United States

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%

Over the counterAvailableUSD 13–16
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Prices are a guide. Stock changes. Confirm on the retailer site before you buy.

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Is Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% right for your skin?

SpotCheck asks a few questions and suggests options worth comparing. It does not diagnose acne.

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Is it right for you?

Evening · Pea-sized amount after cleansing, before moisturiser

Often chosen for

  • Blackheads and whiteheads
  • People starting a retinoid for the first time
  • Congestion-prone skin

Worth knowing

  • Very sensitive skin without a slow introduction
  • Use during pregnancy without medical advice

Pros

  • 0.1% adapalene in a simple gel
  • Widely available OTC in the US
  • Often compared with other adapalene products

Cons

  • Can cause dryness and peeling at first
  • Daily SPF is essential
  • Status varies by country

Routine pairing

How people often combine this product. Introduce one change at a time and patch test if your skin is sensitive.

Often paired with

  • Gentle cleanser
  • Fragrance-free moisturiser
  • Daily SPF in the morning

Introduce carefully with

  • Other retinoids on the same night
  • Strong benzoyl peroxide on the same areas without alternating

What to expect

Typical patterns people report. Your skin may differ. Not medical advice.

  1. Week 1–2

    Dryness or mild peeling is common when starting. Many people use every second or third night first.

  2. Weeks 4–8

    Congestion may start to look clearer for some people; results vary.

  3. After 12 weeks

    If little change or ongoing irritation, a pharmacist or clinician can discuss next steps.

Formulation

Fragrance-free

Tags reflect how we describe the formula. Always check the full INCI if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Often compared with

Related reading

Key points

  • 0.1% adapalene
  • OTC in the US
  • Topical retinoid

How people use it

Apply a pea-sized amount at night. Start every 2–3 nights, use SPF daily, and moisturise if dry.

Ingredients

Key actives

Adapalene0.1% · Active

Full ingredient list (INCI)

Adapalene 0.1%, Carbomer 940, Edetate Disodium, Methylparaben, Phenoxyethanol, Poloxamer 182, Propylene Glycol, Purified Water, Sodium Hydroxide.

Listed in label order. Always check the pack for the most current formula.

Often compared for

BlackheadsWhiteheadsOccasional pimples

Similar products worth comparing

Options with overlapping actives or concerns, filtered to ones we list for your country.

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Country availability & price

Prices are a guide where shown. Stock and availability change. Always confirm on the retailer site before you buy.

All countries (4)
🇺🇸 United StatesAvailable
Over the counterPrice varies
🇬🇧 United KingdomAvailable
PharmacyPrice varies
🇨🇦 CanadaAvailable
Over the counterPrice varies
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🇦🇺 AustraliaLimited
PharmacyPrice varies
—

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Common questions

Is Differin the same as adapalene?
Differin is a brand name for a gel containing 0.1% adapalene. Other brands sell adapalene too, such as La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel in some markets. This is general information, not medical advice.
Can I buy Differin without a prescription?
In the United States, Differin Gel 0.1% is sold over the counter. In the UK it is often pharmacy-only or prescription depending on the exact product. Check the availability section on this page.
Differin vs benzoyl peroxide: which first?
They work differently: adapalene increases cell turnover; benzoyl peroxide targets bacteria. Many people compare both rather than using everything at once. Introduce one active at a time.

Reviews & tester results

Editorial reviews and consented panel results are coming soon. We do not publish open user ratings or made-up testimonials.

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Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%

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