Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment Versus Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%, Niacinamide 4%)
Updated on May 20, 2024
Overview
Cool Features
They both contain retinoid
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, anti aging, dry skin, oily skin, reducing pores, scar healing and better texture
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils or sulfates
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.
Ingredient Info
Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment 8 ingredients
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%, Niacinamide 4%) 32 ingredients
What's inside (and what isn't)
What's inside (and what isn't)
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment 8 ingredients
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%, Niacinamide 4%) 32 ingredients
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Carbomer is a polymer of acrylic acid. Its main role is to create a gel consistency.
A high amount of carbomer can cause pilling or balling up of products. Don't worry, most products contain 1% or less of carbomer.
Propylene Glycol is an odorless, colorless liquid. As a humectant, it helps skin retain moisture. It also aids in delivering active ingredients.
Another role of this ingredient is preventing a product from melting or freezing. Propylene glycol also adds antimicrobrial properties to a product, elongating product lifespan.
This ingredient is considered an organic alcohol and commonly added into both cosmetics and foods.
Those with sensitive skin or conditions may develop a rash when using this ingredient.
Learn more about Propylene GlycolSodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective.
In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline.
Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated.
"Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic.
Learn more about Sodium HydroxideWater. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterAdapalene is a third-generation topical retinoid and is best known for treating mild to moderate acne. It’s also commonly as for its brand name, Differin.
Adapalene has some great benefits:
You can buy over-the-counter adapalene at 0.1% gel strength. Higher concentrations require a prescription.
Oleyl adapalenate is a cosmetic-grade derivative of adapalene that does not require a prescription since it is considered a cosmetic ingredient.
Learn more about AdapaleneIngredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment 8 ingredients
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%, Niacinamide 4%) 32 ingredients

Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment 8 ingredients
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