There are numerous over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatment products available. When you compare Differin gel with benzoyl peroxide, the difference is clear. The article aims to compare the effectiveness and safety of Differin gel with Benzoyl peroxide in patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris.
Are Differin gel and Benzoyl peroxide the same thing?
The answer is no; Differin gel and Benzoyl peroxide gel are not the same thing. However, both are topical medications for acne treatment.
The active ingredient in Differin gel is Adapalene. This topical retinoid is known to increase the number of skin cell turnovers, allowing newer skin cells to move to the surface of your skin and shed the older ones. Accelerating cell turnover helps clear clogged pores and prevents blackheads and whiteheads from forming on the skin. Additionally, the skin care agent also helps to reduce ageing, hyperpigmentation, and inflammation in your skin. Retinoids are often considered one of the best acne products.
On the other hand, Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication with bactericidal properties, meaning it destroys bacteria under the skin and is often combined with other acne treatments, such as azelaic acid and retinoids. The bactericidal effect of benzoyl peroxide is effective for both inflammatory acne (characterised by red bumps filled with pus) and non-inflammatory acne, such as whiteheads and blackheads. Moreover, benzoyl peroxide causes a reduction in excess oil and opens the clogged pores through a mild peeling effect. Here, it is essential to note that the peeling effect of the product can contribute to irritation, redness, and increased sun sensitivity, particularly when used at high concentrations. Moreover, Benzoyl peroxide is thought to have bleaching effects and has the potential to discolour your clothes as well as your hair; therefore, careful application is required.
What’s more effective, Differin gel or Benzoyl peroxide?
According to research studies, Adapalene, the active ingredient in Differin gel, is more effective than Benzoyl peroxide for treating acne. In a research study, Benzoyl peroxide 2.5% was found to cause a significant reduction in the number of inflammatory acne lesions within the first month of use. However, Adapalene 0.1% was found to decrease the number of non-inflammatory acne lesions and improve the overall appearance of acne after use for two to three months.
Therefore, research supports the effectiveness of Adapalene for mild to moderate acne. Retinoids, such as those found in Adapalene, are also used in acne scar treatment. The therapeutic agent is often preferred for individuals with sensitive skin. Moreover, people using Adapalene experience fewer side effects compared to those using benzoyl peroxide, which may contribute to skin irritation due to its peeling effect. It is always essential to consult a dermatologist and select the best acne treatment. Your dermatologist may recommend Differin gel, which contains Adapalene as the active ingredient.
Benzoyl peroxide or Differin gel, which is stronger?
As mentioned above, both skincare agents are effective in treating mild to moderate acne vulgaris. They are often even used together for increased effectiveness. If the products are used separately, a benzoyl peroxide product during the day and an Adapalene product at night is considered highly effective in treating acne. Moreover, Benzoyl peroxide and Adapalene can also be used in conjunction with topical antibiotics or azelaic acid in individuals with moderate acne. However, salicylic acid is only considered for treating mild acne and should not be used in conjunction with other anti-acne products. Moreover, avoid using cystic acne remedies at home; for severe cases of acne, a dermatologist may recommend additional oral antibiotics.
What’s best to choose?
Depending on the severity of acne, you and your dermatologist may decide to use Benzoyl peroxide, Differin gel, or both. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a dermatologist to help you get the best skin care agents that suit your needs. You may consider Differin gel with Adapalene as the active ingredient, which has been shown to have a similar mode of action and effectiveness in treating acne, with fewer side effects compared to benzoyl peroxide.
What works best for wrinkles?
Adapalene, being a retinoid, is endowed with anti-ageing properties and can be effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It helps to increase collagen and thicken the skin layer. They also stimulate the production of new blood cells in the skin, contributing to better skin colour and the reduction of dark spots.
Can benzoyl peroxide and Differin gel be used alternately?
For best results, use both products by applying Benzoyl peroxide in the morning and Adapalene in the evening. Once you apply Benzoyl peroxide in the morning, make sure you wear sunscreen to prevent irritation from the sun. Always follow the instructions given on your prescription.
What is the dosage of Adapalene and Benzoyl peroxide?
Properly wash and dry the affected areas of your skin. Apply a thin layer of the gel preparation to the affected areas once a day at bedtime. Avoid the eyes, nose, lips, and mouth. During the first few weeks of treatment, the condition may worsen because Adapalene promotes the growth of acne that has started to form but is not yet visible. Therefore, it is important not to discontinue treatment if acne worsens. Beneficial effects should appear by 8 to 12 weeks.
The bottom line
Both products, Differin gel and Benzoyl peroxide, work well and have similar side effects. But when comparing both, Differin gel containing Adapalene is found to be less irritating to the skin. Both medicines can increase your sensitivity to the sun, so it is essential to protect your skin from the sun. It is best to use these medicines daily. Results may take several months to appear. The research revealed that Differin gel was more effective than benzoyl peroxide in treating inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions of acne vulgaris. Studies also found Adapalene to be a safer option than benzoyl peroxide because Adapalene users tend to have fewer side effects than those treated with benzoyl peroxide. Follow dermatologist acne tips to get rid of acne.
