Differin (Galderma)

Differin's active ingredient, adapalene, was originally developed by Galderma as a prescription retinoid for acne treatment and received FDA approval in 1996. For over two decades, adapalene 0.1% was available only by prescription, making it one of the most widely prescribed topical retinoids in dermatology. In 2016, the FDA approved adapalene 0.1% for over-the-counter sale, and Differin Gel became the first prescription-strength retinoid available without a prescription in US pharmacies. This reclassification was a landmark moment in acne treatment, giving consumers direct access to a clinically proven retinoid that had previously required a dermatologist visit.