How to Use Adapalene Gel with Moisturizer

Adapalene gel and moisturizer should be used as part of your nightly skincare routine 3-6 times per week.

To use adapalene gel with moisturizer, make sure to first cleanse your face properly. Then, apply a pea sized amount of adapalene and wait 1-2 minutes for it to soak into your skin. Finally, follow up with a quarter-sized amount of moisturizer.

This article will explain everything you need to know about adapalene and how to use it with moisturizers.

Adapalene Gel Overview

Also known as Differin gel, adapalene is a prescription strength over the counter retinoid used to treat acne. In fact, it’s the only dermatologist recommended retinoid approved by the FDA to treat acne over the counter.

Does it have retinol?

All topical retinoid like Differin have derivatives of vitamin A in them. Differin gel has a form of vitamin A called adapalene, but adapelene is not the same as retinol.

What does it do?

Adapalene is a topical product that binds to the retinoid receptors in your body and tells them to make you new skin.

Through this process, your skin cell cycle speeds up and your skin turns over most quickly.

For the first few weeks, you may notice that you get more breakouts, but this subsides in about 3-6 months of consistent use.

What are the side effects?

Because it speeds up cell turnover, Differin gel can cause a number of side effects including:

Most of these side effects can be mitigated by applying moisturizer at night and applying sunscreen in the mornings.

Can you use adapalene gel as a spot treament?

No, Differin gel is not a good spot treament. All retinoids are lipophillc, which means they travel easily through your skin and do not stay in one place.

Instead, you’ll want to apply a thin layer over your entire face as part of your evening skincare routine.

Can I use moisturizer with Differin gel?

To avoid irritation, you should always use a moisturizer or lotion after applying Differin gel.

Moisturizing is essential after applying skincare products like Differin gel because they can really dry your skin out.

Do I use Differin Gel Before or After Moisturizer?

Generally, you should use Differin gel before your moisturizer.

If you have super sensitive skin, you can consider applying a thin layer of moisturizer before Differin gel to reduce adapalene absorption while your skin adapts to the active ingredient.

Over time, you should try to apply Differin gel directly to your skin and apply moisturizer afterwards.

How Long should I let Adapalene Dry Before Moisturizing?

It should only take about 1-2 minutes for adapalene to absorb into your skin. After it dries, you can then apply your moisturizer.

How to use Differin Gel

To use Differin gel, follow these steps:

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser

2. Apply a pea sized amount of Differin gel over your entire face

3. Gently massage the Differin gel in until absorbed

4. Apply moisturizer

And that’s it!

How frequently should I use Differin gel?

You can start with 3 nights per week and slowly work your way up to 5-6.

Can I use Differin gel in the morning?

Since retinoids are inactivated by the sun, it is best to apply Differin gel as part of your nighttime skincare routine instead of the morning.

Additionally, be sure you’re wearing sunscreen in the morning as retinoids can make you more prone to burning.

What skincare products can I use with Differin?

Since Differin gel can cause skin irritation on its own, it’s best to avoid layering any other active ingredients.

The best products to use with Differin gel are gentle and hydrating ones to calm irritation like a good moisturizer and facial oil to prevent dryness.

Alternatives to Differin Gel

While Differin gel is one of the most effective treatments on the market, other acne treatments may be more suitable depending on your skin type or your lifestyle.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide products work by killing off acne causing bacteria. They can be harsh on the skin but are effective for treating acne.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that gets into your pores and dissolves sweat and oil that accumulates. It is a more gentle than benzoyl peroxide or Differin but is still an effective acne treatment.

Chemical Exfoliants

Alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acids and mandelic acid are also suitable to treat and prevent acne. They’re great for:

• Turning over dead skin cells

• Helping with skin’s natural texture

• Brightening up dull skin

Retinol

Retinol is a more gentle version of adapalene that still speeds up cell turnover and helped with reduced acne but is less likely to cause skin irritation or dry skin.

Frequently Asked Questions