Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Can I use differin gel (prescription strength) with a retinol moisturizer?

I’ve been using prescription strength differin gel for acne for many years, and would like to add a retinol moisturizer to my skincare routine for anti-aging benefits. Would like to know if the combination is safe?
1 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
I don't know, but if I wanted to know something like this I'd probably talk to my dermatologist or contact the company that makes it.  As this product is stronger than retinol, I'm not sure why you'd want to add more of this but that's up to you.  I'd say the thing to worry most about is that moisturizers are usually made with oil, and if you have chronic acne you have a problem with clogged pores.  If you could fix this by changing your diet or the like you might actually solve the problem rather than medicate it for so many years, but I'm sure you've been through this already.  I think the company does make moisturizers as well if you want to add to the synthetic chemicals you're already loving so much, though it's hard to see how the ingredients in it would be all that moisturizing.  It does tell you that you can add a moisturizer but whether that would include one that has retinol in it doesn't appear.  But again, retinoids are stronger than retinol, so you'd just be adding a weaker version, I think.  
Helpful - 0
1 Comments
Thank you for your condescending and ill informed response. It was really helpful. I especially loved the “change your diet to fix the problem.” I, along with many others who have dealt with acne, eat healthy and drink plenty of water. Anyone who’s ever had acne knows that diet isn’t the only component to achieving clear skin. Case in point, those who are grossly overweight and eat junk food but manage to have perfectly clear skin.
Also, I can tell how misinformed you are by implying that those with acne prone skin shouldn’t be using moisturizers because they contain “oils that clog pores.” If you don’t know how important moisturizing is for all skin types, especially acne prone skin, you probably shouldn’t be answering questions regarding skin care.
I’m well aware that differin is a retinoid and that retinol is a weaker over the counter vitamin A derivative. The reason I’d like to add a retinol moisturizer is because I want the benefits of Vitamin A without the potential irritation that comes from using too much of a retinoid. I understand that I could apply differin all over my face and follow up with a gentle moisturizer, but I don’t want to slather a prescription strength retinoid all over my face as it would be irritating. I use differin to spot treat only and no longer need to use it on a regular basis as my acne has been under control for years. I want to know if I can begin using a retinol moisturizer for anti-aging  while also continuing differin as a spot treatment for acne.
In all honesty, I was hoping to receive a response from a dermatologist or health care professional who actually knows what they’re talking about, and can offer guidance without being judgmental.
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Dermatology Community

Top Dermatology Answerers
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Learn to identify and prevent bites from summer’s most common pests.
Doctors argue for legislation to curb this dangerous teen trend in the latest Missouri Medicine report.
10 ways to keep your skin healthy all winter long
How to get rid of lumpy fat on your arms, hips, thighs and bottom
Diet “do’s” and “don’ts” for healthy, radiant skin.
Images of rashes caused by common skin conditions