Post-pregnancy Acne and My First Glimpse of Differn Gel aka Adapalene

Before I was pregnant with my first son, my acne treatment included using Benzaclin in the AM followed by moisturizer. Benzaclin has the power of two acne-fighting ingredients in one acne treatment - benzoyl peroxide and topical clindamycin. In the evening, I used a 3% benzoyl peroxide facial wash, Triaz, followed by moisturizer.  However, once I became pregnant I could not use those ingredients without harming my baby. My acne was terrible. My face erupted on my chin, and around my nose. Most of the break-outs on my chin were cystic acne and very painful.

After my first son was born, I was nursing and so, I thought I could not use any acne fighting chemicals. After nine months nursing, I became pregnant with my second son and so, the acne continued.

After my second son was born, I was over feeling depressed about my skin's condition, and so, I made an appointment with my dermatologist to see what I could do with my acne. She prescribed me Differen gel or .1%.

I was so excited that I had taken a proactive approach with my acne, I used it every night. Although I only put a pea-size amount each night, my skin became very irritated, sensitive to everything, including, my moisturizer, and even water! I began to research Differen gel to see if other people had the same reactions, and if Differen gel worked for them. I found out many things I wish my dermatologist had told me...

This post is getting lengthy, so to see what I learned, stay tuned for my next post.