Adapalene (Non-prescription)
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Adapalene is a vitamin A derivative called a topical retinoid. It helps clear acne by promoting skin cell turnover and reducing inflammation in...

Adapalene is a vitamin A derivative called a topical retinoid. It helps clear acne by promoting skin cell turnover and reducing inflammation in the skin.

Non-prescription adapalene is available only in 0.1% strength.

Adapalene is topically applied usually once a day before going to bed to all acne-affected areas of the skin, and not just on individual pimples themselves.

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August 2, 2007

Pros:

Works!

Cons:

Can dry and irritate skin

I have had acne over 10 years that won't go away. I recently tried Differin. I've been using it for 6 weeks now. I didn't have dry skin much at all (my skin is very oily) but I did experience sun sensetivity. It also has gotten worse in some ways. I have small bumps all over my face, clogged pores...which turn into zits. I don't get big zits very often but as the derm put it, the clogged pores are "time bombs" and differin set them off! My skin got worse but nothing I couldn't manage, anyway, I knew it'd get worse before it got better. I have stuck with it and I already have noticed how much clearer it is. It's a dream come true, after living with acne for 10 years I actually have confidence. Bottom line: stick with it! I don't know why everyone's saying it takes "forever" to work. Yes it takes a few months but it's better than just being stuck with acne! Be patient!
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July 30, 2007

Pros:

Healthier Skin, Smooth, Acne Clearing Fast - I am truly amazed!

Cons:

cost - my health insurance would not cover it

I have come to realize everyone's acne is different and different meds work for different people - I have tried everything...antibiotics, accutane, retin A...you name it. Differin, almost immediately, showed results - my skin has never looked better and I am totally shocked. I was expecting another "okay" medication with limited results. I am in my 30's and if you suffer from adult acne (I had great skin as a teenager)...give differin a try! I have had ZERO side effects...not so with the other meds I have taken over the years.
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July 30, 2007

Pros:

Helped in treating my minor breakouts and temporarily haulted breakouts all together.

Cons:

dry itchy skin, reacted with almost all lotions i used. Left my skin feeling like it was on fire

For the price of this product, it may be useful to some. But for me it had little affect in my cystic acne.
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July 25, 2007

Pros:

Worked fast on the pimples already present and cleared the ones starting to emerge.

Cons:

I really can't find any other than the fact it's not an over-the-counter med and you need a prescription.

Fantastic on hormonally challenged 40-something skin and trust me, I've tried everything. Doesn't turn me red and peely like Retin-A which is a huge PLUS. I can see good results overnight and used on a continual basis with Cleocin-T (antibiotic topical), I have virtually no break outs whatsoever. Added bonus for older skin is it works on wrinkles, too. LOVE THAT!
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July 25, 2007

Pros:

the best

Cons:

takes a long time to work, but it works it!!!

Ok, the derma told me that i have to use this prodcut for 6 months to see results, i was like, ok, because before i have tried everything even things that you can't imagine. I had acne for 12 years it really gets down your selfsteem, you don't know why that is happening to you. So, I sataring to use differin and benzac 5% since december and from a month ago my skin is totally clear, more clean and whiter, i'm really happy with this i never thought it'd work i have lost faith, I recommend 100% this 2 products and have patience, roma wasn't built in a day :)
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July 23, 2007

Pros:

Makes skin feel good, sometimes calms acne overnight. Doesn't dry out skin (if your skin isn't too sensitive).

Cons:

Takes so long to work (2.5 months).

It's alright. When used in conjunction with something else (like Duac) it does a good enough job.
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July 23, 2007

Pros:

I no longer have the deep, painful pimples. I no longer get breakouts on my forehead or around my jawline. I don't get big whiteheads. My skin feels tighter and stronger.

Cons:

Severe breakouts and extreme drying and flaking for up to 3 months when you FIRST start, especially if you have sensitive skin.

IF YOU DON'T LIKE IT AT FIRST, DON'T GIVE UP! The product changes your skin and builds a new outer layer over time. Doctors say it takes a few weeks but it really may take a few months. After 6 months, my skin was nearly acne-free, with the exception of a few monthly PMS-related breakouts. Ask your dermatologist for an oil-free moisturizer that has antibacterial properties, like Metro Lotion.
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July 22, 2007

Pros:

none

Cons:

although differin is supposed to bring your 'underskin' breakouts up to the surface, this was not the case for me. i had huge red bumps sitting below the surface of my skin. plus, on the surface, my skin was horrible. differin doesnt work!!!!!!!!!!!!

drying, doesnt clear up pimplea, wrikles you, emerges large pores, doesnt work, IS A SCAM!
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July 21, 2007

Pros:

decreases inflammation, less oily skin

Cons:

but skin can get very dry, and photo-sensitive

Worth it, when used in conjuction with BP [5%][after the Adapalene is washed clean, of course] and Salicylic wash [2%]. It's better than when I was using Retin-A, because of the anti-inflammatory qualities. I store my tube in the fridge - very nice to get two cooling effect at one go.
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July 20, 2007

Pros:

less inflammed, pimples go away sooner. slight improvement in number of zits

Cons:

dried me out a little at first. Broke out for a small while when first started

I've had acne since the seventh grade, currently entering the eleventh. Tried many things and my skin seems to love this stuff so far. I had very inflammed acne..this reduced inflammation alot!
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.
Find a Doctor Using The American Acacemy of Dermatology Website

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.
Find a Doctor Using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website