Monroe Misfit Makeup | Beauty Blog: My Journey to Clear Skin with Differin® Gel

July 31, 2017

My Journey to Clear Skin with Differin® Gel

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #AfterDifferinJourney #CollectiveBias  

Back in May, I shared some of my favorite tips for keeping your complexion clear and acne free. This is also when I began my journey to clear skin with Differin® Gel. Just because we are past our teen years, doesn't mean we are past skin breakouts. In fact, I break out more now than I ever did in my teens! Being able to add just one acne product into my already existing skincare routine was perfect. I am able to focus on healthy skin while treating my mild acne in the process.


Differin® Gel is the first and only prescription-strength retinoid now available over-the-counter for clearing and preventing acne. It's the newest advancement and ingredient in the OTC acne category in over 30 years! Differin® Gel clears breakouts where they start (deep in the pores), prevents breakouts before they begin, and as a result, restores skin’s texture and tone.


I kept my daily skincare routine over the last three months as simple as possible. Both morning and night, I cleansed my skin with Cetaphil® Gentle Skin Cleanser. During the day, I applied Cetaphil® Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 to protect my skin from the sun. The last step in my nightly routine, was treating my acne with Differin® Gel.

I applied a thin layer of Differin® Gel to my entire face before my moisturizer. I wanted to make sure I was keeping the rest of my routine as gentle as possible while my skin adjusted.

Differin® Gel is not used in the same way as a spot treatment. In order to get the best results, you should apply a thin layer all over the face, once a day, every day. Please use caution when using Differin® Gel with more than one acne treatment or glycolic acid product because this could lead to irritation.


Differin® Gel contains the only multi-benefit dermatologist recommended retinoid, Adapalene, now available without a prescription to clear and prevent acne.


Week 1
The first week I experienced what is often known as the purging process. This is where your skin purges all of that icky stuff trapped inside your pores, an underlying cause of breakouts. I experienced some slight sensitivity and redness in the beginning, but nothing too significant.
Week 2
The second week my skin became dry and peeled some. Do not be alarmed if this happens; it's normal. The sensitivity started to subside during this time, and my blemishes were gradually disappearing and red marks were fading.
Week 3
 

Three weeks was the magic number for me. My skin had adapted to the daily application of Differin® Gel, and I was no longer experiencing any side effects.


After one month of daily use, it was smooth sailing. I haven't experienced any significant breakouts since adding Differin® Gel into my skincare routine. I am very happy with my results using Differin® Gel over the last eight-weeks. It has allowed me to feel comfortable in my skin and not have to worry about covering up with makeup at all times. Clear skin is freeing!


Three Tips to Making Differin® Gel Work for You

1. Simplify your skincare routine. I left out many of my serums, toner, and treatments while I was using Differin® Gel. You don't want to confuse your skin.


2. A very small amount is plenty to cover your entire face. Use a pea-size amount of the product to minimize any potential side effects. Remember that it's not a spot treatment, so cover the full zones where you want to treat acne and prevent breakouts. It’s best to apply a thin layer all over your face, once a day, every day.


3. Stick with it! It's important to continue using Differin® Gel as part of your skincare routine, even after your skin looks clear, to help prevent future breakouts.

Differin® Gel has a long-standing heritage as a proven acne treatment but is now in the OTC acne section in the beauty aisle. I picked mine up at my local Target store. Go to Differin.com to get $2 off Differin® Gel and use it on your next shopping trip to Target!




Do you experience acne? Would Differin® Gel be a product that you would add in to your skincare regimen?


This product is dermatologist developed and tested. Please call 1-866-735-4137 for any questions you may have concerning the product. However, should you experience any problems while using the product, please discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.