1 reply to this topic

[marylizus]

My son has been using differin since 11/01/07. He applies a pea size amount every night. He's been using benzyclin once or twice/day for several years now. He's been taking doxycycline for 3 months. The acne isn't improving.

I think the differin causes redness and irritation. I don't think it's improved his acne. I told him to stop using it for a week or so. After only 2 days, his skin looks better...not as red and dry. We've tried using less benzyclin, but that doesn't seem to help much.

Do you think using the Differin for 5 months was giving it a fair shot?

Anyone else have the dry redness problem?

[didi78]

Hi! Is your son moisturizing? Dryness and redness is a common side effect, but usually moisturizing can help with that problem. If he's not moisturizing, the irritation can make it harder for his acne to improve.

Also, is he using benzaclin with Differin at night? This combo can lead to increased irritation. Most people use Differin at night and then benzaclin during the daytime to reduce side effects.

With that said, after 5 months, I would go back to the dermatologist and see if he can try an alternative retinoid (for some people, Differin doesn't work) or a stronger Differin (from 0.1 to the 0.3). good luck!