5 replies to this topic

[Maggie G]

Is this normal? My derm told me to use Differin just twice a week....this doesn't seem like enough. He also perscribed a 4% BP wash and doxy. it's been 2.5 and nothing is working...my skin is actually worse...? does that sound right, or should I follow the instructions on the actual Differin and use it once a day or even every other day??

[slightlystoopid111]

My derm told me to use Differin twice a day from the beginning, I was surprised when he told me this. Nine weeks later, my skin is peeling off in layers and moisturizer helps somewhat, but if water manages to even touch my face it will feel like leather is on my face and I can't move my jaw.
Not to scare you, but Differin is extremely strong if used too much. I think your dermatologist is telling you the right thing to do, I really think my skin is permanently damaged from Differin even though it has helped my acne a lot.

[No I'm Amy]

It might actually be okay. I use mine once a day but it was hard for me to get used to it so I'm sure he is right. Next time you have an appointment, ask him for sure. You seem to be doing a slightly different regimen than me though... because i don't know what doxy is but i bet your derm sounds right

[Maggie G]

It might actually be okay. I use mine once a day but it was hard for me to get used to it so I'm sure he is right. Next time you have an appointment, ask him for sure. You seem to be doing a slightly different regimen than me though... because i don't know what doxy is but i bet your derm sounds right

doxy is doxycycline, an anti-biotic. which isn't helping. lol
but do u think it would be OK if I use it every other day, since it's been 2 weeks?

[willow569]

I think its probably just a way (and a good one) to get your skin used to the Differin, without causing excessive irritation. If you start a retinoid too quickly, you can get excess drying and irritation and also worsening of acne sometimes. I would ask your derm before you increase the frequency of application. I think if more derms did this gradual approach, people would get far fewer side effects from retinoids during the early days of use.

[Maggie G]

I think its probably just a way (and a good one) to get your skin used to the Differin, without causing excessive irritation. If you start a retinoid too quickly, you can get excess drying and irritation and also worsening of acne sometimes. I would ask your derm before you increase the frequency of application. I think if more derms did this gradual approach, people would get far fewer side effects from retinoids during the early days of use.

ok, that makes sense. i guess i just needed some reassurance, because I was kinda feelin "The Arrogant Genius" vibe and he was kind of rushed so I didn't trust him, lol. i haven't had any irritation or drying so far at all, so I guess that's good. I will call and ask later. thanks.