Photo Credit: allure.com
TAKE THAT, ACNE! DIFFERIN GOES OTC
Differin Gel is now available over the counter (OTC) – making it the first ever OTC acne product to contain a full prescription-strength retinoid.
Retinoids like Differin tame inflammation and prevent clogged pores from forming in the first place. Differin Gel 0.1% (adapalene) was approved for over-the-counter use in July 2016, and has been available in stores since Jan. 2017.  In addition to the gel, the new OTC line includes Differin® Balancing Moisturizer and Differin® Balancing Cleanser.
As part of the launch, Galderma introduced a new commercial, a splashy digital campaign, a celebrity spokesperson (none other than Ashley Benson, star of Pretty Little Liars) and of course, a hashtag — #differin. The bash took place at the Nestlé Skin Health Investigation, Education, Longevity Development (SHIELD) Center in New York City.
“When considering the prescription to OTC switch for Differin .1% Gel, the innovation and excitement revolves around access,†Adam Friedman, MD, FAAD, associate professor of dermatology in the department of dermatology, Residency Program Director and Director of Translational Research at George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, DC, tells Beauty In The Bag. “For a patient to be able to simply purchase an established retinoid over the counter without the need for a visit to the dermatologist, a prescription, and a painstaking prior-authorization which is ultimately rejected by the insurance company two weeks later, is a game changer. “
Pretty Little Liars’ Benson has always been open about her skin woes, often posting “zit” selfies. “Make-up takes a huge toll on the skin. By the end of the night, I can scrape off my makeup. It’s horrible,†she told the crowd. Benson has been using the new Differin line on her “super-sensitive skin†and says its working.
Differin® Gel will retail for around $13.99 for .05 oz. (up to 30 day use) 
and $29.99 for 1.6 oz. (up to 90 day use).
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