If you feel like retinol-centered skincare is popping up everywhere, that’s likely because it’s now available over the counter. And while this previously prescription-only active ingredient is easier to obtain in stores, it often boasts a pretty hefty price tag, sometimes called an OTC markup. We’ll cut to the chase: Differin, a beloved and highly effective adapalene gel, is currently on sale for 22% off, making the final price $11.75. These days, that’s cheaper than the cost of a coffee and a scone.
Longtime lovers of this product — based on over 50,000 reviews — already know of its power. It features adapalene, a topical retinoid that works to treat existing acne and prevent new acne by “removing dead skin cells and shrinking oil glands,” Dr. Ariel Ostad, a cosmetic surgeon based in New York City, previously told HuffPost. Ostad added that this ingredient also helps restore your skin’s tone and texture, freeing it from pore congestion.
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Macrene Alexiades noted that Differin is intended for people who need a stronger skin care treatment.
As an adapalene-based product, this gel is designed to help with severe acne and can promote collagen production or improve the appearance of sun damage. The reviews will tell you this isn’t an overnight miracle product. “I began noticing real improvements after consistent use over several weeks my skin feels clearer, more balanced, and far less prone to breakouts,” one wrote. ”…It requires patience and consistency, but the long-term benefits are absolutely worth it.”
If you’re new to using retinol, the experts say it can cause flaking and irritation in the beginning, something that many reviewers refer to as the “purge” stage, which ultimately leads to healthy, happy, and better-looking skin.
“IT GETS A LOT WORSE before it GETS MUCH BETTER. HANG IN THERE,” one wrote. ”…After all that flaking and peeling, and using non-stop aloe on it (also borrowed my husband’s thick Aveeno Eczema lotion… it seems to really work!), I had…. clear skin. I can’t believe I’m typing this. It’s been weeks, and my skin has cleared up 98%.”
As with most retinol products, doctors say that while it’s effective, Differin needs to be used with care.
The product can be drying and increase sun sensitivity.
To remedy this, so you want to make sure you’re using a pea-sized amount only at night, and pairing it with a good moisturizer. During the day, you’ll also want to be diligent about using sunscreen.
If you look through the reviews, Differin seems to have some really powerful results. Unlike an overnight pimple patch, it’s generally not an instant fix, but it’s a reliable and long-term solution for ensuring that your skin looks and feels great. Many reviewers say this product is the only thing that’s ever worked for them, or something they’ve spent years looking for.
If you still need a little more info, check out some of the nearly 50,000 5-star reviews of the Differin acne treatment gel.
“I have struggled with acne for years, trying countless products with little success, until I discovered Differin Acne Treatment Gel. This product is an absolute game-changer! The 0.1% Adapalene formula gently but effectively targets acne, reducing inflammation and preventing new breakouts. Even though I have sensitive skin, this gel is incredibly gentle and has not caused any irritation. The 30-day supply is generous and I noticed visible improvement in my skin within just a few weeks of consistent use. The packaging may vary, but the effectiveness remains the same, making this acne treatment a must-have for anyone seeking clear, radiant skin. I cannot recommend Differin Acne Treatment Gel enough!” — Kindle customer.
“This is the very best acne gel and another product I always have on hand. It works so incredibly well without overdrying your skin. It is by far the best product I’ve used and it is another one of my favorite subscribe & save products. I will never be without it.” — BritneyW.
“A Derm suggested I try it on some newer stretch marks after having my twins and I’m so glad I did! After consistent use, 2x a day for about a month I’ve noticed a visible difference: they’ve lightened and the texture has improved. It’s definitely noticeable! It takes time and patience, but it’s gentle enough for daily use and doesn’t irritate my skin. Not what it’s marketed for, but definitely a bonus use!” — Paige W
“I’m usually not one to write reviews but with this product I have to. For the price, I saw immediate results with once a day light application. I am amazed by how fast my skin cleared up. I used to be paranoid about washing my face (excessively) and now I only wash my face at night and shower in the morning. I have had no luck with anything and I think I just found my favorite product of all time. I’m so thankful to have found this when I did, my self esteem is on the rise.” — Taylor Biese.
“I put the gel on right before bed and then woke up with a huge difference! This I definitely recommend it’s truly a miracle gel!” — Ewa.
“I noticed my 13 year old was breaking out badly on her forehead. She is a very finicky eater, so it’s not from a lot of fried foods, chocolate, or other teenage eating habits. Anyways, I applied this to her forehead, and after two nights, I was shocked at the difference it had made! I mean seriously! Her forehead started clearing up. It’s been a couple of weeks now, and her forehead looks so much better. Maybe it doesn’t work for everyone, but it’s certainly work for my 13 year old. I am very happy with this stuff.” — Grammy Maui.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 20 (0.2% retinal)
I’ve long heard people rave about this highly-rated serum from Medik8, and I can’t say I’m surprised. Everything I’ve tried from the brand thus far has been effective and left my skin looking and feeling great. This serum can help to address typical signs of aging like wrinkles, texture and tone quickly and efficiently. It’s balanced with hyaluronic acid and glycerin to help keep skin supple, soft, smooth and hydrated. It’s a great mid-price jumping-off point for anyone curious about trying a retinal.
This cream is the highest run on Medik8’s Crystal Retinal ladder, boasting 0.2% retinal (if you’re wondering about the difference between retinol and retinal, read this). It’s for the most advanced skin care lovers and has double the concentration of the previous highest strength. It’s as good as it gets.
Amazon
A313 cream (0.12% retinol)
If you’re a fan of French pharmacy beauty, then there’s a good chance you’ve heard of this cult-favorite cream. According to the brand, it uses .12% retinol that penetrates the skin and targets common signs of aging. Many reviewers recommend starting with a very small, pea-sized amount and made note of the cream’s thick, greasy finish — it’s definitely not for everyone, but those who love it are absolutely devoted to this French ointment. It can be challenging to find it stateside, so make sure you’re purchasing from a reputable seller with good reviews.
Amazon reviewer Jessica said she “ordered this after hearing about it from an aesthetician. It has a vaseline-type texture when it goes on. So a little goes a long way. You can definitely feel it tingling after you put it on. It works, but I personally cannot use it more than 2-3 times per week or my skin gets irritated. When I use it regularly, my hyperpigmentation is much better and so are my fine lines and wrinkles. It is definitely worth a try, but if you have sensitive skin, I recommend you start with a small amount and only once or twice a week at most!”
Dermstore
SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 maximum strength refining night cream (1.0% retinol)
In previous HuffPost reporting, Dr. Deanne Mraz, a board-certified dermatologist at Modern Dermatology in Connecticut and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine, thinks the varying retinol strengths available make this cream a great option for “anyone who needs to downshift to a gentler strength in the cold, dry winter months and turn up the volume [spring through fall].”
Dermstore
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Retinoid Acne Treatment (0.1% retinol)
This popular and affordable La Roche-Posay treatment is made with adapalene, a prescription-strength retinoid that is primarily used to treat acne, but also has all the other benefits of a traditional retinol. It’s incredibly effective and one of only two FDA-approved prescription-strength retinoid acne treatments, along with Differin, that can be purchased over the counter. I used adapalene for years before switching to retinol and tretinoin and found it to be incredibly effective.
Skin Better Science
SkinBetter Science AlphaRet overnight cream (1.0% retinol)
“I love Skinbetter Science’s AlphaRet Overnight Cream,” Mraz mentioned in previous reporting. She added that “it combines retinoid with lactic acid and glycolic acids to exfoliate the skin and pairs those benefits with soothing, nourishing peptides, ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and vitamins C + E making the formulation gentle enough for most skin types, including those prone to dryness.” The high concentrations of both retinol and AHAs makes this an absolute powerhouse.
Dermstore
Avène Retrinal 0.1 Intensive cream (0.1% retinaldehyde)
I’m a big fan of Avène products; this French pharmacy staple always knows how to strike the perfect balance between using tried and true potent ingredients and nourishing goodness to help keep skin looking and feeling youthful, soft and plump. This cream is no exception, and can help to leave your complexion looking and feeling smooth, radiant, hydrated and fresh. It contains 0.1% retinaldehyde, another word for retinal, which is the fastest-acting retinoid available OTC, as it’s a precursor to retinoic acid. It’s one of the strongest options out there. If your skin can tolerate it, you’ll be amazed to see a youthful glow emerge.
Sephora
Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum (0.15% retinal)
This highly-rated and oft-reviewed serum utilizes retinal, niacinamide and ceramides to not only improve the look and feel of skin texture and and common signs of aging, but also reinforce the skin’s barrier, smooth skin, even tone and moisturize. It’s a powerhouse combo in the form of a lightweight serum that won’t feel heavy. It contains .15% retinal, significantly more than most traditional retinol-based products on the market.
Amazon
Naturium Retinaldehyde cream serum (0.1% retinal)
Get all the benefits of a high-powered retinol without dropping tons of cash with this mid-priced cream serum from Naturium. It proves you don’t need to drop an arm and a leg to get good skin care products. It uses sustained-release retinal that can help to refine skin texture and reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and even discoloration. It’s the radiance booster you’ve been waiting for. The brand does offer a lower .05% concentration, but if you’ve used it for a while or know your skin can handle a stronger amount, you can always go straight to or alternate it with the .10% version.
Dermstore
Allies of Skin Retinal & Peptides Repair night cream (.05% retinaldehyde)
This cream harnesses the power of retinal in combination with peptides, antioxidants and botanicals to nourish the skin while deeply infusing it with all the benefits of powerful, high-quality retinal. It’s uniquely balanced to be as effective as possible while also being gentle on the skin, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin who want to dip their toes into the strong retinol waters.
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