Key takeaways
Differin (adapalene) and tretinoin (Retin-A) are both retinoids used for acne, but there are some differences. Differin (adapalene) is a topical medication used to treat mild-to-moderate acne, while tretinoin (Retin-A) is an topical medication used to treat acne in adults and children 12 years and older. Differin (adapalene) is available both over-the-counter and by prescription, and it comes in various forms like creams, gels, and lotions. Tretinoin (Retin-A), on the other hand, is only available by prescription and is available as a cream or a gel. Differin (adapalene) can cause skin irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity, while tretinoin (Retin-A) can cause skin irritation, redness, and peeling. You should avoid using Differin (adapalene) with other skin products that can cause irritation, and tretinoin (Retin-A) may cause your acne to get worse at the beginning of treatment, but it should get better as you continue using the medication. Differin (adapalene) and tretinoin (Retin-A) are sometimes used off-label for wrinkles, but there is another formulation of tretinoin (Renova) that is FDA approved for this purpose.
