Teenagers and young adults are usually more likely to experience breakouts, but people of all ages are susceptible to persistent cases of acne. When you have spots that just won’t go away, there are proven prescription treatments available for clearer and brighter skin.

You don’t have to keep spending money on all those skin care fads and products that barely make a difference. Instead, you can buy gentle but effective acne treatment online through pharmacies like Pharmacy Planet.

Types of Acne

A common skin condition, acne happens to just about everyone. It can be an occasional occurrence or one that persists, even into adulthood. Acne usually appears on the face, back, neck, and chest and is the result of your hair follicles becoming clogged with sebum (oil) and dead skin cells.

There are several different types of acne and it’s not uncommon to experience more than one type at the same time.

• Papules: Solid and small cone shaped bumps that can be skin coloured, red, or purple.
• Pustules: Solid inflamed bumps that have a white or yellow pus-filled tip.
• Blackheads: Blocked follicles at the skin’s surface that appear black because of how air reacts to the oil.
• Whiteheads: Blocked follicles below the skin’s surface that close up around the blockage.
• Nodules: A severe form of acne that causes large and hard lumps below the skin that can be very painful.
• Cysts: The most severe form of acne that appears similar to boils and can leave behind acne scars.

Cause of Acne

The glands that are attached to your hair follicles are called sebaceous glands. They produce the oil (or sebum) your skin and hair need to stay healthy and hydrated. Some oil on your skin is normal and beneficial. It’s only when your sebaceous glands produce too much of it that you run the risk of blocked pores and acne.

Excess sebum production can be the result of several factors, including: 

• Hormonal changes
• Steroid use
• Menopause
• Pregnancy
• Certain medications
• Stress
• Genetics
• Poor skin care or dietary habits
• Some cosmetics

You should also avoid touching your face with your fingers and regularly wash any masks or headbands you regularly wear. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser, but don’t overwash your face as this can dry out your skin and make it more prone to breakouts.

If you aren’t sure what’s causing your acne or you’re worried you may have an underlying condition, make an appointment to speak with your GP.

Acne Treatment 

The acne treatment that will work best for you will depend on your skin type and severity of your acne. For mild or occasional cases, you can try over-the-counter treatments that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or azelaic acid. These aim to clear up the acne causing bacteria on your skin. 

More moderate, persistent, or severe cases of acne may need prescription grade treatment like antibiotics. Some women have found that hormonal birth control pills help clear up their skin as well. There are also prescription gels and creams you can apply to your breakouts like Differin Cream and Gel.

Differin Cream and Gel 

Differin is a topical treatment for acne that is applied directly to the skin. Both the cream and gel contain the dermatologically recommended retinoid adapalene 0.1%. Adapaline increases the turnover over your skin cells, helping your skin speed up the exfoliation process and produce a new, clearer layer of skin.

Adapalene also helps unblock pores and can prevent spots and blackheads. Because it's an inflammatory, you should notice a reduction in redness and swelling, too.

What Are Retinoids?

Retinoids have become hugely popular in skincare and for good reason. They are derivatives of vitamin A, an extremely beneficial vitamin for your skin health. Retinoids work on the cellular level, rejuvenating your skin cell production to promote healthier, younger looking skin.

Retinoids have a wide range of positive dermatological applications like reducing inflammation, clogged pores, and the appearance of fine lines.

How Do I Use Differin?

After you have washed your face and patted it dry, apply a thin layer of differin with clean fingertips directly to the affected area. You should do this one per day, ideally at night while you’re getting ready for bed. By putting it on at night, any redness or skin irritation is likely to clear up while you’re asleep.

When applying Differin, avoid sensitive parts of your face like your eyes, nostrils, mouth, and any broken or cut skin.  

Differin should start working right away, but don’t be discouraged if it takes a few weeks for a noticeable difference. It might even seem like your skin is getting worse when you first start using Differin. This is because the medication is attacking the acne forming inside your skin. With continued and regular use your skin should be up to 87% clearer within 12 weeks.

You can still use cosmetics and shave your face while using Differin, but opt for products aimed at sensitive skin. 

Differin Side Effects 

While using Differin, your skin will become more sensitive to light so avoid excessive exposure to sunlight and don’t use tanning beds. Any other side effects should be temporary while your skin adjusts to the use of Differin Cream or Gel. 

Symptoms can include: 

• Dryness
• Redness
• Itchiness
• Scaling
• Mild burning sensation

Serious side effects are rare, but there are some signs you should watch out for. If you experience anything like extremely irritated skin, swollen eyes, or skin discolouration you should stop using Differin and contact your GP or pharmacist.

Buy Differin Online in the UK

If you have moderate to severe acne, you don’t have to get on a waiting list for a dermatologist or spend hundreds to see a private consultant. At Pharmacy Planet, you can get prescription grade acne treatment quickly and hassle-free. Once our pharmacists review your short online assessment, we can have your Differin order shipped right to your doorstep. 

Visit our website or contact us today to buy Differin Gel and Cream online in the UK.