Model Monday's: Diana Moldovan
How To Use Differin Gel For Treating Acne
In 2016, the Food and Drug Administration approved Differin Gel 0.1% for over-the-counter (OTC) use by people 12 and older to treat acne. The product is a form of adapalene, a type of retinoid. Retinoids, including retinol, are found in many skincare products.
Many people who use Differin Gel think it's incredible, giving it the stamp of approval for clear, blemish-free skin. The formula is similar to products with prescription-strength retinoids. As a result, there are a few things to consider before adding the retinoid to your evening skincare routine.
Amazon.Com Differin Gel is a type of retinoid. Retinoid is a term that includes all vitamin A derivatives, such as: Retinol Retinaldehyde Retinoic acid Naphthoic acid derivatives Specifically, the main ingredient in Differin Gel is adapalene. Adapalene, part of the naphthoic acid derivative group, is available as an OTC retinoid. Still, you'll need a prescription for adapalene's more potent forms, adapalene 0.3% gel and 0.1% cream. When the Food and Drug Administration approved Differin Gel in 2016, the agency advised people who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding to not use the product. Some evidence suggests a link between other retinoids and birth defects. At the time, there weren't enough good studies on adapalene to deem it safe for pregnancy. As of November 2022, the Food and Drug Administration hadn't released updated guidance. Still, the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) advises stopping adapalene during pregnancy. Also, you should skip Differin Gel if you have ultra-sensitive skin or certain skin conditions. For example, people with sunburns, broken skin, or eczema ought to avoid Differin Gel until their skin heals. While there are many OTC retinol creams on the market, Differin is not one. Instead, Differin Gel is made up of adapalene. Both retinol and adapalene come from vitamin A. Vitamin A increases cell turnover, removing dead skin cells to make room for new ones. Cell turnover helps your skin look younger. If you have an active acne breakout, products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are probably better treatments than Differin Gel. In contrast, Differin Gel helps protect against future acne breakouts. So, if you're dealing with an active pimple, you should hold off on Differin Gel. In addition to acne prevention, in general, adapalene treats photoaging, which includes premature fine lines and wrinkles from sun exposure. Dermatologists may also recommend adapalene for "off-label use" to treat skin conditions like: Plantar warts Molluscum contagiosum Pigmentary disorders Actinic keratoses When using Differin Gel, start with a clean canvas. Gently cleanse the affected area, like your face, then pat dry. Next, apply Differin Gel across the entire area. You should use Differin Gel once per day. Using the product multiple times daily may increase your risk of skin irritation. When you first start using Differin Gel, you may notice that your skin worsens. The increased cell turnover causes more acne than before. However, as you regularly use the product, the acne will decrease over time. In general, adapalene can take as long as 12 weeks to take full effect. So, with retinoids like Differin Gel, start out by using a very small amount of the formula. Start every other day and work up to nightly use as your skin builds tolerance. Differin Gel Side Effects and Precautions In general, some of the most common side effects of adapalene include: If you have severe side effects, like difficulty breathing and a swollen face or throat, consult a healthcare provider right away. Also, you should not use Differin Gel with products that cause irritation, such as medicated soaps or cleansers. Also, you shouldn't apply Differin Gel while using chemical exfoliators or drying agents. Like retinoids, chemical exfoliators increase cell turnover. However, too much exfoliation can lead to raw, irritated skin. Examples of chemical exfoliators include glycolic and alpha-hydroxy acids. Also, drying agents can be too drying if you use them along with a retinoid. Examples of drying agents include astringents and toners. Instead, follow Differin Gel with an ultra-rich moisturizer that will calm irritation and deliver much-needed hydration. Differin Gel, also known as adapalene, is an acne treatment. Adapalene is a type of retinoid that you should not use with other skincare products like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, chemical exfoliants, or drying agents. Keep in mind that Differin Gel is best for preventing acne breakouts instead of treating active ones. Also, Differin Gel can cause skin irritation and redness. Not everyone may benefit from its use or be able to use it all, including pregnant people.15 Best Drugstore Retinol Products That Are Just As Effective As Expensive Ones
1
Best Encapsulated Retinol
RoC Retinol Correxion Anti-Aging Wrinkle Night Serum1
Best Encapsulated Retinol
RoC Retinol Correxion Anti-Aging Wrinkle Night SerumNow 36% Off
Credit: Courtesy of the brandsThere's no need to second guess if you're using too little or too much retinol each week. With RoC's retinol capsules, you'll give your skin the right amount every time. Each capsule has retinol and antioxidants to address fine lines and wrinkles.
Key ingredients: Retinol, antioxidants
Size: 30 capsules
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
Our expert says: "These retinol capsules also contain antioxidants and ceramides, so they help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles without irritating the skin. The capsule design makes them especially good for on the go."—Dr. Marisa Garshick,
2
Best Hydrating Retinol Cream
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Regenerating Face Cream2
Best Hydrating Retinol Cream
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Regenerating Face Cream Credit: Courtesy of the brandsIf you prefer a multipurpose product, Netrogena's Regenerating Cream uses retinol to reverse signs of aging and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump the skin to avoid irritation.
Key ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Ulta rating: 4.3 fl oz
Our expert says: "This is a great retinol option, especially for beginners, as not only does it provide retinol benefits but it also contains hyaluronic acid to help boost moisture, improving overall tolerability."—Dr. Garshick
3
Best Retinol For Dark Spots
Differin Acne Treatment Gel3
Best Retinol For Dark Spots
Differin Acne Treatment Gel Credit: Courtesy of the brandsMaintenance and prevention are vital when it comes to fighting acne scars. The Differin Gel helps to do both by penetrating the pores to reduce breakouts and diminishing the appearance of existing scars.
Key ingredients: Adapalene
Size: 0.5 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.5 fl oz
Our expert says: "Containing adapalene, a prescription retinoid now available over-the-counter, this [gel] can be a great option for someone dealing with breakouts and blemishes. By helping to regulate skin cell turnover, it helps to prevent clogged pores and is especially good for those with oily skin," says Dr. Garshick. Fellow dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp is also a fan of the over-the-counter gel. "The active ingredient in Differin is adapalene, which is a retinoid. It used to be available only by prescription but is now available over the counter. Primarily marketed as an acne treatment, products with adapalene can address concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots," he says.
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4
Best Drugstore Retinol Eye Cream
ROC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Under Eye Cream4
Best Drugstore Retinol Eye Cream
ROC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Under Eye CreamAnother RoC drugstore gem, this formula was designed to improve the lines and wrinkles that emerge under your eye, as well as dark circles that may form over time.
Key ingredients: Retinol, minerals
Size: 0.5 fl oz
Our expert says: "This retinol eye cream is gentle enough to use on the skin around the eyes and helps tackle concerns like crow's feet, dark circles, and puffiness."—Dr. Brendan Camp
5
Best Drugstore Retinol Body Wash
Olay Cleansing & Renewing Nighttime Body Wash with Vitamin B3 and Retinol5
Best Drugstore Retinol Body Wash
Olay Cleansing & Renewing Nighttime Body Wash with Vitamin B3 and Retinol Credit: Courtesy of the brandsTry this Olay hydrating, retinol-infused body wash if you're troubled with bacne. In addition to retinol, Olay's Nighttime Body Wash is formulated with vitamin B3 to refresh and renew your skin so it's left feeling soft and supple.
Key ingredients: Retinol, vitamin B3
Size: 20 fl oz
Target rating: 4.6/5 stars
Our expert says: "I'll admit it: TikTok made me do it. As someone who constantly breaks out on my chest and back, I was desperate for a formula that would clear my body acne fast. Olay's retinol body wash not only helped to reduce my breakouts, but I believe its hydrating formula is the reason so many people have complimented me on how soft and clear my skin looks."—Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.Com beauty commerce editor
6
Best Drugstore Retinol Serum
CeraVe Anti Aging Retinol Serum6
Best Drugstore Retinol Serum
CeraVe Anti Aging Retinol SerumNow 26% Off
Credit: Courtesy of the brandsIf you're a beginner looking for an affordable entry to retinol, drugstore favorite CeraVe has you covered. Along with encapsulated retinol to brighten and improve texture, this serum also has hyaluronic acid and ceramides, so you're not left with an irritated, damaged skin barrier.
Key ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid, ceramides
Size: 1 fl oz
Our expert says: "This retinol serum is formulated as an encapsulated retinol to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dullness. It also incorporates niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier and deliver all-day hydration as it is formulated with MVE technology," says Dr. Garshick. Dr. Brendan Camp loves this serum for its hydrating properties. "Made with hyaluronic acid to boost hydration, niacinamide to calm skin, and ceramides to improve moisture, this retinol serum helps address premature signs of aging," he adds.
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Best Drugstore Retinol-Alternative Serum
Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum7
Best Drugstore Retinol-Alternative Serum
Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum Credit: Courtesy of the brandsAs the name suggests, Versed Press Restart helps give your skin a second (or third, or fourth?) chance at renewal. Using bakuchiol, a retinol alternative, this serum smooths texture; chlorophyll is also in its make-up to enrich the skin with a boost of oxygen.
Key ingredients: Bakuchiol, chlorophyll
Size: 1 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: "It is helpful in smoothing out rough patches, as I'm in my mid seventies and have some skin issues."
8
Best Nighttime Retinol Serum
L'Oréal Paris Revitalift 0.3% Pure Retinol Night Serum,8
Best Nighttime Retinol Serum
L'Oréal Paris Revitalift 0.3% Pure Retinol Night Serum, Credit: Courtesy of the brandsThe antidote for a lifted, smoothed, soft face is found in this bottle. L'Oréal Paris' Pure Retinol Night Serum works to gradually erase those pesky fine lines and wrinkles so you can maintain a more youthful appearance.
Key ingredient: Retinol
Size: 1 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: "This is hands down the best retinol I've ever used! My skin is much more smooth and glowing! I keep a very simple routine and this is my magic serum! I recommend this always for OTC retinol."
9
Best Retinol For Mature Skin
No7 Advanced Retinol 0.3% Complex Night Concentrate9
Best Retinol For Mature Skin
No7 Advanced Retinol 0.3% Complex Night Concentrate Credit: Courtesy of the brandsSmall but mighty, this concentrate primarily focuses on refining the look of pores and delaying any signs of aging with a formula that fuses retinol with peptides for extra cushion.
Key ingredients: Retinol, peptides
Size: 1 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
Our expert says: "This retinol treatment is formulated with a retinol optimizer encapsulation system to enhance medication delivery and optimize effects."—Dr. Brendan Camp
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10
Best Retinol For Acne-Prone Skin
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Topical Retinoid Acne Treatment10
Best Retinol For Acne-Prone Skin
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Topical Retinoid Acne Treatment Credit: Courtesy of the brandsHow can one treatment target so many common skin care woes? The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel attacks breakouts—the main culprit of dark spots and deep scarring—head-on by helping unclog pores and prevent new acne.
Key ingredient: Adapalene
Size: 1.6 fl oz
Ulta rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer said: "Honestly this product is great and has helped cleared my acne scars so much and I barely break out, this is one of my favorites and I definitely recommend getting it!!"
11
Best Gentle Drugstore Retinol Serum
honest beauty Honestly Pure Retinyl Serum - Honest Beauty11
Best Gentle Drugstore Retinol Serum
honest beauty Honestly Pure Retinyl Serum - Honest Beauty Credit: Courtesy of the brandsAs you catch your Zzz, this gentle serum soothes and smoothes the skin to reveal a brighter, youthful-looking appearance over time.
Key ingredients: Retinyl linoleate, hyaluronic acid
Size: 1 fl oz
Ulta rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer said: "I'm consistently surprised at how much better my skin looks the morning after I use this serum. I also love the consistency and how nicely it soaks up into your skin without leaving it feeling sticky/tacky. You're able to apply other serums/moisturizer over it without that annoying "pilling" of product. I'm struggling with hormonal acne as I turn 30 and this stuff is the only thing that keeps it at bay. There is an instant improvement overnight, every single time. As with all retinols, this will cause some irritation when not introduced to your skin slowly. But it is completely worth it for the results you get."
12
Best Drugstore Moisturizing Retinol Cream
Eucerin Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream + Pro-Retinol Facial Cream12
Best Drugstore Moisturizing Retinol Cream
Eucerin Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream + Pro-Retinol Facial Cream Credit: Courtesy of the brandsWhen using retinol, the key to protecting your skin is to sandwich it with a hydrating moisturizer as a protective barrier. Good thing Eucerin did the hard work for you. The anti-wrinkle cream gradually fades wrinkles with pro-retinol and nourishes the skin with vitamin E and macadamia nut oil.
Key ingredients: Pro-retinol, vitamin E, macadamia nut oil
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: "I've used this, along with other Eucerin skin products, for several years. After removing makeup at night and cleaning my face, applying this cream is my gift to my face. It has a pleasant scent and a rich texture. The cream easily absorbs into my face and neck, where it can work its magic all night long. Reasonably priced, there's no excuse for not using this anti-wrinkle cream.
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13
Best Drugstore Retinol For Firming
Olay Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer13
Best Drugstore Retinol For Firming
Olay Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer Credit: Courtesy of the brandsYou can't talk about staple drugstore skin care without mentioning Olay. The Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer is the superhero your routine has been missing; its powers include brightening, lifting, and firming, in addition to wrinkle and pore reduction.
Key ingredients: Retinol, vitamin B3
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Ulta rating: 4.5/5 stars
Our expert says: "Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer is my favorite drugstore brand retinol for many reasons. It contains a blend of their proprietary retinoid complex, niacinamide, and amino peptides that help revive and rejuvenate the skin. It penetrates deep into the skin surface to address many concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, smoothness, brightness, firming, dark spots, and pores. It also hydrates the skin and helps to maintain the natural skin barrier."—Dr. Lauren Penzi
14
Best Drugstore Retinol For Makeup Lovers
e.L.F. Youth Boosting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum14
Best Drugstore Retinol For Makeup Lovers
e.L.F. Youth Boosting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum Credit: Courtesy of the brandsYou can always count on E.L.F for your makeup needs, but the brand also has your skin care covered. Featuring a blend of retinol, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid, this serum plumps and hydrates the skin while improving texture.
Key ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid
Size: 2.15 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: "The serum has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that glides smoothly onto the skin. I appreciate that it doesn't leave a sticky residue or cause any discomfort upon application. It's also fragrance-free, which is a plus for those with sensitive skin. I've been using the e.L.F. SKIN Youth Boosting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum for about eight weeks now, and I've noticed some positive changes in my skin. My complexion appears smoother, and fine lines around my eyes and mouth have become less noticeable. I did experience some mild peeling and sensitivity during the first two weeks, but it subsided as my skin adjusted to the retinoid."
15
Best Drugstore Retinol Body Cream
Advanced Clinicals Retinol Body Lotion Moisturizer Face Lotion & Body Cream15
Best Drugstore Retinol Body Cream
Advanced Clinicals Retinol Body Lotion Moisturizer Face Lotion & Body CreamNow 10% Off
Credit: Courtesy of the brandsWrinkles, scars, and crepey skin don't only appear on the face—the body gets its fair share, too. Thanks to this firming cream from Advanced Clinicals, your body can be as smooth and blemish-free as your face.
Key ingredients: Retinol, ferulic acid, green tea, aloe vera
Size: 16 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: "I was skeptical at first but after using this product I have to admit it works. I have extremely dry skin on my legs and after using the lotion for less than a week my skin looks so much better. You'd never know there was a problem. I definitely recommend it for others."
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16 Is drugstore retinol as effective as higher-end ones? While drugstore retinol products may have great benefits, Dr. Marisa Garshick says not all formulas are made equally. "Retinol may exist in different concentrations, which may impact both efficacy and tolerability. However, some retinols may also be combined with other ingredients to help maximize benefits and enhance tolerability. Additionally, prescription retinoids tend to be more effective than over-the-counter retinols, but ultimately it comes down to tolerability," she explains. If over-the-counter products aren't yielding the results you desire, Dr. Garshick advises visiting a dermatologist for a more effective treatment plan. 17 What should you look out for in a drugstore retinol? "When considering a drugstore retinol, it is important to not only look for a brand and product that is backed by clinical studies, but also to consider the type of retinol, the concentration and any other ingredients in the formulation, such as ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid to help minimize irritation," Dr. Garshick offers. 18 Meet the expertsDr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell New York Presbyterian Medical Center.
Dr. Brendan Camp is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery.
Dr. Lauren Penzi is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery.
Beauty Commerce Editor
Nerisha is the beauty commerce editor at ELLE.Com, covering all things beauty (and fashion and music). She has a penchant for sneakers and nude lip glosses, and spends way too much time re-watching 90s sitcoms.
13 Best Skin Care Products For Acne-prone Skin, According To Dermatologists
Though we usually associate acne with the more annoying parts of our teenage years, the issue has become increasingly more common in adults. It's also a bigger issue among women: Approximately 22% of women in the U.S. Suffer from adult acne compared to just 3% of men, according to a 2014 study in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.
LEARN MORE What are the best ingredients for acne-prone skin?What to know when buying products for acne-prone skinWhat causes acne?
Depending on the severity of your condition, controlling acne can be difficult — but it's not impossible. We spoke to board-certified dermatologists about the skin-care ingredients that can help clear up your skin by fighting acne, inflammation and dark spots. We also compiled some of their recommendations for the best products to shop for acne-prone skin.
The dermatologists we spoke to recommended looking for products with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene and azelaic acid for acne-prone skin (more on that below). Below, we highlighted a mix of face washes, moisturizers, sunscreens, spot treatments and face masks that feature these ingredients as well as other expert-recommended acne-fighting ingredients like niacinamide and zinc oxide. Experts recommended each of the following brands and products.
Neutrogena Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Acne Wash$8.87
$11.99
Amazon
$8.59
Target
$12.49
CVS Pharmacy
Dr. Eileen Deignan, a board-certified dermatologist and chief of dermatology at Emerson Hospital, recommended this salicylic acid cleanser from expert-favorite brand Neutrogena to clean out pores and calm acne. It features LHA, which is recommended by Dr. Emmy Graber, a board-certified dermatologist and president of The Dermatology Institute of Boston, as a more gentle acne solution. It's suitable for most skin types since it's free of oils, fragrances and parabens, according to the brand.
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser$13.48
$17.99
Amazon
$14.99
Target
$13.48
$18.00
Walmart
CeraVe — a popular brand among our experts — is Deignan's pick for a lower-strength benzoyl peroxide wash. It features a 4% benzoyl peroxide concentration to help clear acne, hyaluronic acid to help retain the skin's natural moisture and niacinamide for a natural anti-inflammatory effect, according to Deignan.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Acne Face Wash$16.99
Amazon
$16.99
Target
$14.99
Walgreens
This fragrance-free acne face wash from expert-favorite brand La Roche-Posay contains a 2% concentration of salicylic acid. Dr. Tracy Evans, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology, said the brand combined the ingredient with LHA to "balance the cleanser" and make it gentler on the skin. It also contains glycerin, which Stevenson told us is a type of AHA that hydrates and helps soothe the skin.
Because of its drying element, Evans said this face wash can be a good option for people with oily skin — for more sensitive skin types, she recommended the brand's Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser since it's less stripping, has niacinamide and "provides hydration along with cleansing the skin."
Neutrogena Clear Pore Face Mask$8.59
Target
$9.27
Walmart
Graber recommended this product from Neutrogena, which contains 3.5% benzoyl peroxide. It can be used as a daily cleanser or weekly mask to kill bacteria and prevent future breakouts, according to the brand.
EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen with SPF 46$41.00
Amazon
$41.00
Dermstore
$41.00
Elta Md
The EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen is a favorite of Deignan's since it's free of heavy moisturizers that could clog pores and contains the natural anti-inflammatory ingredient niacinamide. EltaMD's mineral-based sunscreen offers SPF 46 and includes zinc oxide, which experts previously told us provides protection against the sun's UVA and UVB rays while soothing the skin. For those with dark spots or discoloration, our experts also recommended EltaMD's tinted version of this product as one of their favorite tinted sunscreens.
Mario Badescu Drying Mask$18.00
Amazon
$18.00
Walmart
$18.00
Ulta
This face mask from Mario Badescu contains sulfur, "the oldest known ingredient to help with skin inflammation," according to Graber. The combination of sulfur and zinc oxide in this mask draws out impurities and gets rid of excess oil, while calamine and cucumber can cool the skin and ensure you don't feel irritated afterward, Mario Badescu says. You can apply it either two or three times a week — it can also be used as a spot treatment on stubborn breakouts, according to the brand.
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant$35.00
Amazon
$35.00
Sephora
$35.00
Dermstore
This highly rated liquid leave-on exfoliant from Paula's Choice contains 2% salicylic acid to help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. It also has green tea, which the brand says can help soothe irritated skin and improve visible signs of aging.
Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment$10.97
$21.00
Amazon
$27.49
Target
Dr. Caren Campbell, a California-based board-certified dermatologist, recommended this OTC retinoid in our guide to retinol. Experts told us that retinoids promote skin cell turnover and cure inflammation to deep clean pores and prevent new pimples from forming. After you cleanse, tone and moisturize, apply a thin layer of the gel treatment to the affected areas of the skin, the brand says.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel$35.99
Amazon
$35.99
Dermstore
$36.99
Ulta
Another adapalene gel recommended by Campbell, La Roche-Posay's Effaclar Adapalene Gel also contains 0.1% adapalene to unclog pores and fight blackheads and whiteheads, the brand says. La Roche-Posay's gel is also slightly gentler and more moisturizing than the Differin gel, according to people who have used both.
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Serum$11.10
Sephora
$11.10
Target
$17.87
Walmart
Graber said she usually recommends The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Serum to her patients since it can help improve both blemishes and dark spots. The serum, which contains 10% azelaic acid to help brighten your complexion, is cruelty-free, vegan and gentle enough to use up to twice a day, according to the brand.
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion$12.50
$19.99
Amazon
$14.92
Walmart
$14.99
Target
"Products that offer hydration and are oil-free can be very helpful for acne, such as a CeraVe everyday moisturizer," said Evans. This oil-free nighttime moisturizer from the brand features niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and other ceramides to provide essential moisture throughout the night, according to the brand. You can also get the brand's AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, which has SPF 30.
Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion$15.97
Amazon
$16.49
Target
Dr. Lindsey Bordone, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center, told us Cetaphil is a trustworthy brand for those dealing with acne. This face and body moisturizer from the brand features a non-greasy, paraben-free formula with no added fragrance to avoid irritation for sensitive skin types, according to the brand. Cetaphil says the moisturizer can provide up to 24 hours of hydration, and it comes in four sizes ranging from 4 ounces to 20 ounces.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer$21.99
Amazon
$22.99
Ulta
$21.99
Target
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Erum Ilyas previously recommended this face moisturizer from La Roche-Posay due to its soothing and hydrating properties. The brand says the moisturizer offers 48-hour hydration and can be used on the face, neck and hands.
The dermatologists we spoke to highlighted four key ingredients to help fight acne: salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene and azelaic acid. These are available as prescriptions for more stubborn acne, but there are plenty of over-the-counter products that offer these ingredients at a lower dosage.
Other acne-fighting ingredients found in OTC products include alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acids (BHA). These compounds can "help with clogged pores like blackheads and can cause the top layer of dead skin cells to shed," according to Dr. Mary Stevenson, a board-certified dermatologist and associate professor at NYU Langone Health's Department of Dermatology. However, experts agreed you should consult your dermatologist to see what works best for your skin and won't cause irritation (or worsen your acne).
Salicylic acidSalicylic acid is a BHA, which means it's a chemical exfoliator. The compound "helps shed the top, dead layers of our skin and can help with inflammation," said Stevenson. These products, typically in the form of a cream, wash or lotion, "unclog pores that are the cause of some acne lesions and help to remove excess oils," according to Deignan. Since it can have a drying effect, especially on sensitive skin, you should only use salicylic acid products every other day or a couple of times a week at first until your skin gets accustomed to it, Evans said.
Lipohydroxy acid (LHA) is a derivative of salicylic acid that works very similarly in terms of unclogging pores and exfoliating the skin. However, LHA is more gentle and less irritating, according to Graber.
Benzoyl peroxideBenzoyl peroxide helps inhibit the growth of the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (P. Acnes) on the skin, which is what typically causes the inflammation and lesions seen in acne. This ingredient can be especially useful for inflammatory acne, Evans noted.
A lot of benzoyl peroxide products contain 10% of the ingredient, Graber said, but she noted that higher strengths have never been proven to be better for acne. "Higher strengths only irritate the skin more, so you should look for a lower strength" especially if you're just starting out, she advised. Evans also noted that the ingredient shouldn't be used by people with sensitive skin or dermatological diseases like eczema or rosacea. Keep in mind that benzoyl peroxide can also bleach your clothes and towels.
AdapaleneAdapalene is a type of retinoid used to treat mild to moderate acne and blackheads. Adapalene is available in 0.1% and 0.3% strengths and it's the first OTC retinoid treatment approved for acne — it works to regulate the turnover of cells lining the pores to reduce clogging, according to Deignan. Evans warned that adapalene can be very drying for the skin and should be used with an oil-free moisturizer and gentle cleanser.
Azelaic acidMuch like salicylic acid and adapalene, azelaic acid works to unclog pores. It's more mild compared to salicylic acid and adapalene, so it may be a more suitable option if you have sensitive skin, according to Bordone.
"It can also lighten the brown spots that are left behind from old acne marks, which we see most often in people who have darker skin tones," added Graber. She noted you can get prescription-level azelaic acid at 15% and 20% strengths, but you can also find it in OTC products at a 10% strength.
Experts told us acne-fighting products can be used every day if your skin can tolerate them — salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid, for example, can be used both in the morning and at nighttime.
Adapalene can be used during the day since it's "more stable than older retinoids," according to Bordone. However, if you are going to get a lot of sun during the day, it's better to use adapalene at night since it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun's UV rays. For those with sensitive skin, Bordone suggested using any acne-fighting products every other day at first and patch-testing them to make sure there's no allergic reaction.
OTC products can help with mild to moderate acne, but "they generally take regular daily use for three months to see results," Deignan said. It's also safe to use all of the aforementioned acne-fighting ingredients together, but keep in mind that this can cause a lot of irritation — and layering products on top of each other won't make them more effective, according to Graber.
The dermatologists we spoke to noted a few other considerations when using skin care products on acne-prone skin.
Look for non-comedogenic products. When shopping for acne-prone skin care products, our experts recommended looking for a non-comedogenic label, which means the item won't clog pores.
Be gentle on your skin. When using any type of product, our experts recommended always being gentle when washing your face and applying products. "Avoid scrub washes and mechanical scrubbing devices — these products and devices tend to cause more irritation that can exacerbate acne, not help it," said Deignan.
Use sunscreen. When using any type of acne-fighting product, follow up with a non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning. "I recommend sunscreen every day regardless, but a lot of these [ingredients] thin the top layer of the skin, so it makes people more susceptible to sun burning," said Graber. Sunscreen also helps prevent dark spots after a breakout and helps fade pigmentation, according to Stevenson. Experts recommended using a mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher during the day.
There are many things that can cause acne, whether you're a teenager or an adult. "Acne is a complicated disease which involves many triggers, including genetics, hormonal influence and bacteria," Evans explained. Experts told us that causes of acne can range from hormonal changes and fluctuations (especially during puberty or menstruation), eating certain foods like dairy or experiencing heightened levels of stress. All of these causes can increase oil production that clogs pores and encourages the overgrowth of the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, which leads to an inflammatory response.
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