Differin

Adapalene is a third-generation topical retinoid. It binds to retinoic acid receptors in skin, normalising the way skin cells shed inside the hair follicle. This prevents the microcomedones (the earliest lesion in acne) from forming, and it also has direct anti-inflammatory activity on existing inflammatory lesions.

Clinical response is not usually expected before 8–12 weeks. In the first 2–4 weeks you may notice an initial worsening — the 'retinoid purge' — as microcomedones trapped under the skin surface clear faster. This typically settles with continued use.

Adapalene and tretinoin are both topical retinoids, but they're different molecules. Meta-analysis evidence (Waugh et al., Drugs 2004) suggests adapalene 0.1% has comparable efficacy to tretinoin 0.025% in acne, with better skin tolerance (less redness and dryness). Your pharmacist decides which is more appropriate based on your skin and history.

A pea-sized amount is enough for the whole face. Apply to cleansed, dry skin once at night. More is not better — over-application increases irritation without improving efficacy.

Adapalene is often combined with topical benzoyl peroxide (usually on alternate days to reduce irritation) or a topical antibiotic. Combination is a clinical decision — do not layer multiple active ingredients without pharmacist review, as this significantly increases the risk of irritant dermatitis.

Acne is a long-term condition driven by hormones and follicular biology, so it can recur when treatment stops. Most UK guidance recommends continuing topical retinoid therapy for several months after clearance, then stepping down under pharmacist or GP review rather than stopping abruptly.

A gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser morning and night, a bland moisturiser (to offset dryness), and a daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Avoid exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA), scrubs, or strongly fragranced products during the first weeks.

Dryness, peeling, and mild redness are common in the first 4 weeks as skin adjusts — this is expected and usually improves with a bland moisturiser. A brief worsening of acne ('retinoid purge') in weeks 2–4 is also normal and typically settles.

No. Topical retinoids are avoided in pregnancy and when actively trying to conceive. If you become pregnant during treatment, stop and inform your pharmacist or GP. Systemic absorption from topical use is low, but the precaution is standard.

Yes — daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential. Retinoids thin the outer stratum corneum and increase UV sensitivity. Sunburn risk is higher and your acne pigmentation will worsen without sun protection.

No. Avoid eyelids, lips, and the corners of the nostrils — the skin is thinner here and irritation is common. If product accidentally contacts these areas, rinse with water.

Reduce frequency to every other night for 1–2 weeks and use a plain moisturiser. If irritation persists or worsens, stop and message the pharmacist team — some people do better on a lower-strength retinoid or a different formulation.

Layering topical exfoliating acids with a retinoid substantially increases irritation risk. Most pharmacists would advise you to pick one or the other at a time, or use them on alternate nights. Discuss your current routine at consultation.

In discreet, unbranded packaging with a generic sender name, sent by DPD tracked delivery. The outer packaging gives no indication of the contents.

A 30g tube typically lasts around 2 months with once-daily face application at a pea-sized amount. We ship enough for your prescription cycle and can adjust if needed.

No — adapalene gel is stable at room temperature. Store away from direct sunlight and heat.

Any time. Pause, skip, or cancel from your Caremacy account with no notice period or fees.

A qualified prescriber reviews your case and prescribes only where adapalene is clinically appropriate. Treatment is declined where acne is too severe, is not acne, or where a different option is safer.

Yes. Use secure messaging through your Caremacy dashboard. For severe irritation, stop treatment and contact us — and for any suspected severe allergic reaction, seek urgent medical advice.

Response is typically assessed at 8–12 weeks. If there is no improvement — or if acne is worsening — the pharmacist may recommend adding a topical antibiotic-BPO combination, switching retinoids, or referring to your GP for consideration of oral therapy.

Only with your explicit consent. We recommend telling your GP about prescription skincare — especially if you are also on hormonal contraception or other acne treatments — but this is your choice. Your data is held under UK GDPR.