Yus, sorry to hear Differin isn’t helping. Have you tried a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment. If your acne’s really bad, you may have to consult a dermatologist though.

Setu, I do not recommend using ANYTHING but Differin when introducing it. I’ve used the Granactive Retinoid 2% from the Ordinary, however, Differin is much more drying and left me flaky, even when using it every other night. You’ll want a gentle cleanser, then to use Differin and a very hydrating moisturizer, with no other actives for about the first month. Or, as Gio mentioned, you can alternate your other actives with your Differin every other night. I’ve been using Differin for about two months now, and I’ve noticed fewer pimples overall and much smoother skin texture, however, it is not stopping hormonal acne during my period. This is where I mix in some benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid!

Setu, I’d try other treatments first, like regular exfoliation with salicylic acid and spot treating with benzoyl peroxide. If that doesn’t work, you can give it a try. Just be aware that it can dry out your skin even more. And it absolutely show not be used with any other retinoid. You can use it with glycolic acid or vitamin C but on alternate days. Your skin will become very sensitive on Differing so it’s best to keep your routine simple. You can use other powerful actives when you’re not using Differin.

Sherry, thanks for sharing your experience. I believe that Differin has some anti aging benefits as well, although I’d be more likely to recommend tretinoin over that for wrinkles just cos it’s been studied a lot more extensively. But you’ll definitely see a bigger improvement with any prescription retinoid than with retinol. It also depends on your age and how deep those wrinkles are. If you’re still young and your fine lines are just starting to form, retinol may well be all you need. If you’re older and your wrinkles are deeper, prescription is the way to go.