Differin is a prescription, it is stronger. Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that accelerate skin cell turnover. It will cause peeling until your skin gets used to it.

TriAcneal is a more gentle, salon-grade alternative which is 6% glycolic and an almost negligible amount of retinol. It gently exfoliates.

Both are pricey but insurance might cover Differin.

TriAcneal can be "Training wheels" for Differin, to get your skin used to chemical exfoliation. In 6 months when the Differin isn't working as well as you become tolerant to it, you can add TriAcneal.