Differin, Baziron AC or Soolantra: how acne treatments differ

Differin, Baziron AC, Soolantra and combination gels are the most popular treatments for problem skin. They work differently and suit different problems. Here is the difference.

Differin (adapalene)

Adapalene is a retinoid: it normalises skin cell turnover and keeps pores from clogging. It works best on blackheads and closed comedones, and on mild inflamed spots.

• Apply a thin layer to the whole problem area in the evening, on clean, dry skin.
• Dryness, redness and peeling in the first weeks are expected.
• Skin becomes more sensitive to the sun — use sunscreen during the day.
• Not used during pregnancy or when planning one.

The gel suits oily skin; the cream suits dry and sensitive skin.

• Differin gel 0.1% 30 g
• Differin cream 0.1% 30 g

Baziron AC (benzoyl peroxide)

Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria involved in inflammation and dries out inflamed spots. Bacteria don't become resistant to it.

• 2.5% is gentler and a good start for sensitive skin; 5% is stronger.
• It can bleach fabric, towels and hair.
• Dryness and irritation are possible — start by applying it every other day.

• Baziron AC 2.5% gel 40 g
• Baziron AC 5% gel 40 g

Combination gels (adapalene + benzoyl peroxide)

Effezel and similar gels combine both ingredients in one — handy when you have both blackheads and inflammation. They irritate the skin more than either ingredient alone.

• Effezel gel 30 g
• Adakleen duo gel 0.1% + 2.5% 30 g

Soolantra (ivermectin) is not for acne

People often look for Soolantra alongside acne treatments, but it is made for rosacea — redness and bumps on the cheeks, nose and forehead in adults. If your skin flushes easily and spots appear without blackheads, it may be rosacea; a dermatologist makes the diagnosis.

Soolantra cream 1% 30 g

Skin care during treatment

• Wash twice a day with a gentle cleanser and don't scrub.
• Use a non-comedogenic moisturiser.
• Don't squeeze spots — they leave marks and scars.
• Give it time: first improvement shows after 4–8 weeks, the full effect after about 3 months.

When to see a dermatologist

• Deep, painful nodules or cysts.
• Scars or dark marks are left behind.
• No improvement after 3 months of proper care.
• Breakouts started suddenly in adulthood.

Questions? Ask the pharmacist at any ABAPharm pharmacy or write to us in the site chat.