TARGETS ACNE: Clears breakouts where they start (Deep in pores) and prevents new acne from forming, which ultimately restores skin's texture and tone
CLEARS, TREATS & PREVENTS: Differin works differently than other Acne treatments by normalizing skin cell turnover and effectively targets two primary causes of Acne, clogged pores and inflammation
RX STRENGTH ACNE RETINOID: Adapalene was created for superior tolerability compared to other prescription retinoid products not containing Adapalene; It is suitable for use as part of your morning or evening regimen
DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED: Water based formula, oil free, alcohol free, fragrance free, non comedogenic; Helps reduce the risk of scarring and Hyperpigmentation by treating Acne
REAL RESULTS: In a clinical study, Differin gel provided up to 87 percent reduction in acne breakouts after 12 weeks, which will continue to improve with further use
THE CREATORS OF ADAPALENE: A Retinoid that Fights Acne
TRAVEL SIZE TOILETRIES: This product is under 3.4 fl oz, making it easy to take with you on your next vacation or trip
Description
Differin Gel Acne Treatment contains adapalene, an Rx-strength acne-fighting retinoid that helps clear breakouts where they start (works deep into pores in 5 minutes), helps prevents new acne from forming, and as a result, can restore skin’s overall tone and texture. Adapalene is the first over-the-counter active ingredient for acne in more than 30 years. It clears acne with the power of an Rx without the prescription, prevents breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads, blemishes and clogged pores, and can be used to effectively treat acne, or maskne, caused by wearing face masks or facial coverings. When used as directed, you could start to see results in as little as 1 week, and when used every single day, Differin Gel can help reduce up to 87% of acne in just 12 weeks (Cunliffe et al 1998, Galderma Laboratories).Key Ingredient:Adapalene
Scent: Unscented
Trial/Mini/Travel Size: Yes
Health Facts: Alcohol-Free, Oil-Free, Noncomedogenic, Water-Based
Content on this site is for reference purposes only. Target does not represent or warrant that the nutrition, ingredient, allergen and other product information on our Web or Mobile sites are accurate or complete, since this information comes from the product manufacturers. On occasion, manufacturers may improve or change their product formulas and update their labels. We recommend that you do not rely solely on the information presented on our Web or Mobile sites and that you review the product's label or contact the manufacturer directly if you have specific product concerns or questions. If you have specific healthcare concerns or questions about the products displayed, please contact your licensed healthcare professional for advice or answers.
If the item details aren’t accurate or complete, we want to know about it.
Active ingredients
adapalene (retinoid)(0.1%).
Purpose
Acne Treatment..
When using this product:
When using this product:: limit sun exposure, including light from tanning beds, and use sunscreen when going outdoors,do not wax to remove hair in areas where the product has been applied,during the early weeks of use, your acne may appear to worsen before it improves (this is normal); continue using as directed, unless you get irritation that becomes severe,irritation (redness, itching, dryness, burning) is more likely to occur: in the first few weeks of use; if using more than one topical acne medication at a time; but irritation usually lessens with continued use of this product.,it may take up to 3 months of once daily use to see results,avoid product contact with eyes, lips, and mouth. If contact occurs, immediately flush the area with water,wash hands after use.
Stop use and ask a doctor if:
Stop use and ask a doctor if:: you become pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant, while using the product,you have symptoms of an allergic reaction (such as itching, rash, hives, swelling of the lips, eyelids, and shortness of breath),irritation becomes severe,you see no improvement after 3 months of once daily use.
Adults and Children 12 Years of Age and Older
Use once daily. Clean the skin gently and pat dry before applying the product. Cover the entire affected area with a thin layer. For example, if your acne is on the face, apply the product to the entire face. Do not use more than one time a day. Applying more than directed will not provide faster or better results, but may worsen skin irritation.
Children Under 12 Years of Age
Ask a doctor.
Other information
Store at room temperature 68 degrees - 77 degrees F. Protect from freezing.
Inactive ingredients
carbomer 940, edetate disodium, methylparaben, poloxamer 182, propylene glycol, purified water and sodium hydroxide, may contain hydrochloric acid to adjust ph
Question or comments?
866-735-4137
Shipping details
Estimated ship dimensions: 1.6 inches length x 2.65 inches width x 6.27 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.033 pounds
Return details
This item can be returned to any Target store or Target.com.
This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, delivered to the guest, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or picked up by the guest.
Q: Can this be mixed with niacinamide or benzoyl peroxide?
submitted by tropical - 6 years ago
A: Hi @tropical. Thanks for your question. Generally we do not recommend mixing Differin Gel with other active ingredients, however we would recommend checking in with your dermatologist who can provide guidance for your unique skin! Hope this helps. Thanks
submitted byGalderma Team Member - 6 years ago
Brand expert
A: While tretinoin is unstable and cannot be used with benzoyl peroxide, adapalene is stable and can be used with benzoyl peroxide. A combination medication is actually available by prescription (Epiduo). While they can be combined, sometimes benzoyl peroxide is too irritating when used with Differin. Because benzoyl peroxide can bleach pillowcases, some people apply Differin at night and benzoyl peroxide in the mornings. Benzoyl peroxide is available in different strengths, so ask your physician or start with one of the lower concentrations to reduce the chances of irritation.
submitted byAnonymous - 6 years ago
A: Does this help with Milia
submitted byLDub22 - 1 year ago
A: Honestly it's up to your dermatologist and your skins because I see that like some people say that benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin can't mix but my derm actually gave me tretinoin for my 10% benzoyl
submitted byEmma - 2 years ago
Q: Hello, I have recently been diagnosed by my dermatologist, that I have Milia, only on my face. She recommended Renin A, but Ive heard its harsh. Would Differin clear up Milia???
submitted by Brbdall - 3 years ago
A: Differin Gel is only indicated for treating acne. We recommend reaching out to your dermatologist to find products that work for your specific skin type and needs. We hope this helps!
submitted byGalderma Team Member - 3 years ago
Brand expert
A: for milia my dermatologist recommended any under eye cream with retinol and that she specifically likes Roc.
submitted byReviewed by CR - 3 years ago
A: If you’re talking about Millia on your face (common area) or even anywhere else on your body it’s skin buildup. This answer is going to mainly focus on Millia on the face.
So Millia by dictionary definition; develops when tiny skin flakes become trapped in small pockets near the surface of the skin.
It is essentially a build up of dead skin cells that have not been exfoliated off of the individuals face and start to turn into little dead skin balls until they become hard and white over time.
Millia looks like a white head but is hard to the touch and can vary in size from the size of a white head to the size of a small/large wart.
Some will get larger over time if not addressed and when correctly extracted some may have a yellow discharge/tint come out of them depending on how large, how long, and where the location of milia being extracted is.
It’s essentially your bodies way of saying that your skin type needs to be exfoliated more often.
Now just how often and in the space and place milia may appear, it may be somewhat or very delicate and sensitive areas, like around the eye forehead or cheek areas.
It’s NOT about how hard you exfoliate it’s about consistently
Gently exfoliating with what your dermatologist recommends you exfoliate with.
For milia unless you’re ready to go under form surgery these days, it’s going to be more about longevity and making it a habit to do as your dermatologist recommends to see any real difference in size and/or presence of milia, it’s not going to come easy you have to be consistent for at least 6-8 weeks before seeing any type of results is even then. Depending on your skin type.
Again: the key to getting rid of milia is consulting with a board certified dermatologist about consistently exfoliating LIGHTLY and utilizing sun screen daily and making a game plan for the rest
Of your skin care with your specified type of skin condition.
Again, A lot of the times it’s best to go ahead and have an open conversation with your dermatologist if milia is affecting your self-esteem or becoming painful.
A good doctor/dermatologist will work with you to decipher the strongest but least irritating way to help produce the best and/or
Most tangible results in the size or presence of millia pending your specific skin type.
Always always always consult with your dermatologist or MD when you are asking for recommendations as far as medications/creams to help shed the dead skin cells of your Millia.
Over time with consistent use of creams it will either decrease the size of the Millia consistently or work it down in size so that that your dermatologist can handle extracting it more easily without the chance of scarring. Or sometimes they get so small they become unnoticeable.
Each persons face and skin type are different. Some have acne scarring, some experience hormonal breakouts, some wear a lot of makeup and forget to take it off at night (over time, this becomes a huge contributing factor to milia and the for formation of millia.)
You can consult with a board certified doctor regarding lifestyle changes you can make to help alleviate the presence of milia.
You cannot exfoliate a milia away in one night and again the harshness or lightness of scrubbing does NOT MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN HOW FAST THE MILIA DIMINISHES.
What matters here, is that you are exfoliating the area CONSISTENTLY and GENTLY. And by an exfoliant recommended by your board certified dermatologist.
Most dermatologists feel as though extracting these bad boys are out of their scope of practice and do not want to get sued for accidentally hitting a vein that causes your eye sight to diminish or something of this nature because milia loves to build up around very delicate and sensitive areas like the eyes, eyelids, and around the eyes and forehead as previously mentioned.
So most dermatologists I am seeing these days are sending patients who are requesting to have the milia extracted to a surgeon to have them surgically removed, as the dermatologist do not want to be liable for any scarring that removing Millia around the sensitive areas can form.
Again, not all dermatologists are referring out, it just depends on your current location of residency I.e. state/city laws.
So if you are looking for a quick fix btw the creams your dermatologist will help shrink significantly your Millia but may not decrease all the way.
I have also extracted milia at home by myself with a steam machine and sterilized dermatologist tool set with no issues, BUT DO NOT RECOMMEND AT ALL. just my own personal personality.
Full disclosure: I hope this was helpful and I am not a doctor, and this information is not intended to treat, prevent, or cure any disease illness or skin condition.
Always talk to your doctor or dermatologist before proceeding.
submitted byBluedoll28 - 2 years ago
Q: Can I use this along with my Olay retinol 24 night cream?
submitted by Lezuk - 7 years ago
A: Hello Lezuk! Yes, you can. Hope this helps. - Virtual beauty concierge
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 3 years ago
Brand expert
Q: I currently use a salicylic acid cleanser, benzoyl peroxide gel (5%), and a moisturizer day and night for light/moderate acne. How do I add this to my current routine?
submitted by tmg - 9 years ago
A: According to the manufacturer of this drug they do not recommend that you use any type of other active ingredients that contain AHA or BHA or Glycolic acids while using Differn Gel.
In my opinion, I would let your skin acclimate to Differn for at least 2-3 months and maybe do a few test patches with your favorite products before jumping in full throttle. I can sympathize with you, I just started Differn 2 weeks ago and I hated to give up my favorite gylcolic acid toner and BHA serum, but so far I am seeing far superior results with Differn alone on my stubborn blackheads that have pestered me since my teens and I’m in my mid 40’s. My complexion is also improving in tone and texture as well. Hope this helps!
submitted byBeachbride322 - 8 years ago
A: I agree with the other responses, and I'd like to add that if you're currently using AHA or BHA or benzyl peroxide products currently, give your skin a break for about a week before using any retinoid product such as Differin. And I would also not recommend using any other chemical or physical exfoliant products while you use a retinoid if you have sensitive skin, otherwise you run the risk of burning your skin or really irritating it and causing redness.
submitted byavkayes - 6 years ago
A: Hi, tmg. Differin Gel is more than just a spot treatment so we recommend applying this product daily to stop new acne from forming.To limit skin irritation or flakiness, try switching to hydrating cleansers every other day to keep skin moisturized during treatment. Hope this helps!
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 9 years ago
Brand expert
Q: How long will the 15g last before I have to order a new one, given that I use the recommended amount once daily
submitted by Barrett - 2 years ago
A: Hey Barrett,
The 15g size is intended to be a 30-day supply. A pearl-sized amount of gel should be applied in a thin layer to the face once daily. For real-time answers to all your beauty questions, use the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button on any beauty product page.
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 2 years ago
Brand expert
Q: Is this help to remove milia because I have milia under eyes...
submitted by Deep - 3 years ago
A: Hey,
Great question! Differin Gel is only indicated for treating acne. We recommend reaching out to your dermatologist to find products that work for your specific skin type and needs. For all your future beauty questions, get real-time answers using the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button, found on every product page.
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 3 years ago
Brand expert
Q: Did it come with a seal on the top?
submitted by Kimberly B - 5 years ago
A: Hi Kimberly B! There is no seal on this product. Hope this helps.
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 5 years ago
Brand expert
A: Hi Kimberly B - Differin Gel is packaged in the box, so the tube is not sealed. Hope this helps!
submitted byGalderma Team Member - 5 years ago
Brand expert
Q: What’s the different in the differen gel acne treatment ($29) vs the different gel acne ($12)?
submitted by Madison - 6 years ago
A: Hi Madison! The difference here is just the size of the product. The one closer to the $12 range is 15g whereas the larger one is 45g. Hope this helps!
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 6 years ago
Brand expert
A: Container size only...
submitted byLaura - 6 years ago
Q: Would this work as a spot treatment?
submitted by bb1342 - 6 years ago
A: Actually, retinoids are not to be used as spot treatments. They take time to work and are most effective when consistently used over periods of time. More appropriate spot treatments would be benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
submitted byAnonymous - 6 years ago
A: Hi bb1342! This is a fantastic spot treatment. Hope this helps!
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 6 years ago
Brand expert
Q: is this good for normal to dry sensitive skin?
submitted by Briana - 6 years ago
A: Hi Briana! This Acne Treatment works well with all skin types, including dry, sensitive skin types! Adapalene is a gentle acne treatment. Hope this is helpful!
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 6 years ago
Brand expert
A: Differin OTC is the lowest concentration available, and Differin is considered to be the gentlest retinoid. A cream version is available by prescription that some people find more suitable for dry skin. You could also try layering Differin with a gentle moisturizer, whether under or over the Differin. It may be a matter of trial and error.
This product has garnered positive feedback for its effectiveness in treating acne and improving skin texture. Many guests appreciate its ability to clear breakouts without excessive dryness, making it suitable for various skin types. The gel is praised for its affordability and prescription-strength results, with some guests noting significant improvements in their skin after consistent use. However, guests are advised to ease into the application to avoid irritation and dryness.
Summary created by AI from text of reviews reflecting recent feedback provided across different star ratings (includes incentivized reviews)
4.4
4.4 out of 5 stars
6792 star ratings
4.4 out of 5 stars with 6792 reviews
effectiveness
4.4 out of 5
effectiveness: 4.38 out of 5
quality
4.4 out of 5
quality: 4.42 out of 5
value
4.3 out of 5
value: 4.29 out of 5
85% would recommend
641 recommendations
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
18 August, 2026Verified purchase
(no review title)
On-time and in good condition delivery
effectiveness
5.0 out of 5
effectiveness: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
5.0 out of 5
value: 5 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
4 out of 5 stars
17 August, 2026
(no review title)
It works really good it drys out your pimples and gets rid of closed comodones it will break you out and dry your face out alittle but it works trust the process❤️
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
10 August, 2026Verified purchase
(no review title)
Good
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
9 August, 2026
(no review title)
My son has been using this product for months and it has really help clear up his teenage acne.
effectiveness
5.0 out of 5
effectiveness: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
5.0 out of 5
value: 5 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
9 August, 2026Verified purchase
This stuff truly works
Continuous use over consecutive months clears acne and dark spots. My skin has never been clearer.
effectiveness
5.0 out of 5
effectiveness: 5 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
3 out of 5 stars
5 August, 2026
originally posted on differin.com
Product is good - packaging is not.
Differin works well for my skin. However, their packaging is wasteful and deceptive, which are two qualities I specifically avoid in companies I give my money to. There are other products out there (retinoids, AHAs, and BHAs) that do the same thing without such irresponsible packaging.
Gigi
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
4 August, 2026Verified purchase
Pretty good
Adaplene is a pretty decent retinoid that definitely helps with mild to moderator acne, it worked great for me, but u have to stay consistent for weeks, patience is key
effectiveness
5.0 out of 5
effectiveness: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
4.0 out of 5
value: 4 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
4 August, 2026Verified purchase
1st acne product to make a difference
Best acne product ive used that actually made a difference. I used chat gpt to make a custom skincare routine & this was one of the recommendations. Im thankful! Ive struggled with mild but annoying acne throughout my 20s (im 27) tried loads of products. Nothing made a difference. Its known that it can take weeks to see results after starting a routine but this made a difference after use 1! Scent wasnt noticeable. I use every other night with vanicream moisturizer
Jane
effectiveness
5.0 out of 5
effectiveness: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
3.0 out of 5
value: 3 out of 5
2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
5 out of 5 stars
21 July, 2026
originally posted on influenster.com
Perfect for monthly breakouts
This produced help clear my breakouts over time. I get monthly breakouts and I could never find a way to clear them. This helped me by just applying a very small amount to each pimple and there would be change even overnight. Instead of waiting for them to go away for weeks, it only take about 4-5 days with my regular skin care routine and face wash. It does start to make my face dry, but that’s only if I don’t use moisturizer which is very rare. Overall this product is great for people with small breakouts
GabriellaS
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
15 July, 2026
originally posted on influenster.com
A lightweight gel that helps clear acne with regular use
Differin gel helped improve my skin texture and reduce breakouts overtime. The gel is lightweight, absorbs quickly and doesn’t have a strong scent. Whit consistent use my skin looked clearer.
EricaR
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
28 June, 2026
(no review title)
Good
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
21 June, 2026Verified purchase
My Dermatologist recommended this
Recommend to me by my dermatologist
Nicole
effectiveness
5.0 out of 5
effectiveness: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
5.0 out of 5
value: 5 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
4 out of 5 stars
20 June, 2026
originally posted on differin.com
Chemical burn. Cleared acne but burned sensitive a
I think the adapaline chemically burned my skin in sensitive areas. Around my eye.only one eye but it is all red and swollen.
Goofy Grape
Did you find this review helpful?
3 out of 5 stars
19 June, 2026
Deceptive marketing and packaging
Deceptive marketing and packaging. The Gel tube is puny compared to the box!! It could be blown away by a sneeze!
value
2.0 out of 5
value: 2 out of 5
5 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommendWould not recommend
17 June, 2026Verified purchase
Poor packaging
Item arrived opened with no factory seal
Jamie
effectiveness
1.0 out of 5
effectiveness: 1 out of 5
quality
1.0 out of 5
quality: 1 out of 5
value
1.0 out of 5
value: 1 out of 5
3 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
5 out of 5 stars
9 June, 2026
originally posted on influenster.com
Amazing results with continued use
Absolutely love this product. It’s in my skin regimen regularly. I have been using it for years now and have noticed a huge difference in my overall skin texture as well as reduced fine lines and less acne. I do have to layer it with a moisture however at first due to my skin not being use to it. You won’t regret adding it to your skin care routine
TiffanyM
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
31 May, 2026Verified purchase
(no review title)
goos foe acne.
Lovecatt24
effectiveness
5.0 out of 5
effectiveness: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
5.0 out of 5
value: 5 out of 5
4 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
30 May, 2026Verified purchase
works great
this works great. it does not dry my skin out and works great on acne.
Emily
effectiveness
5.0 out of 5
effectiveness: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
5.0 out of 5
value: 5 out of 5
1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
5 out of 5 stars
27 May, 2026Verified purchase
(no review title)
Have never experienced “an instant fix” until I found this product. Just read the box + do research so you know you’re using it correctly! And also what products to stack and which to skip when you use this but it’s great.
budgetmom
3 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
5 out of 5 stars
26 May, 2026
originally posted on differin.com
Absolutely the best!
I’ve had acne since I was 12 year old. I’m 53 and finally found a product that works. I have tried EVERYTHING!!!!! Bought this product on a Tuesday evening and had zero pimples on Thursday. I’ve never loved any product more than I love this!!!
