This Retinoid Is TikTok’s Secret to Clearer Skin (No Prescription Required)

Whether you’re already pressing “add to cart” on a whole bunch of chunky knits or you’re still soaking up every last minute of summer (we’re doing both), it’s inevitable: Fall will be here before we know it. And that means now is the perfect time to think about upgrading the lazy girl skincare routine we’ve fallen into. (Because that hastily applied coat of sunscreen just isn’t gonna cut it for much longer.) Luckily, TikTok is letting us in on their much-loved secret to putting your best acne-free face forward this fall.

Creators can’t stop singing the praises of Differin Acne Retinoid Gel, a topical that clears breakouts and prevents new acne from forming to help restore skin’s texture and tone. And believe us—these product testers have tried it all.

What’s the difference with Differin? This gel contains 0.1% adapalene, a powerful, dermatologist-recommended retinoid that helps regulate cell turnover to keep pores from clogging, effectively targeting acne before it even starts. “This one product helped me to clear my acne after years of struggling with it,” says Taylor Bosmann, also referring to it as her “secret weapon” and the thing that “gave me my confidence back.” Talk about a  glowing review.

And while it’s derm-backed (and TikTok-tested), Differin Gel is also the first FDA-approved acne retinoid available without a prescription and the most effective retinoid you can get over the counter. The star ingredient, adapalene, also helps reduce redness and is proven to be gentler on your skin than other retinoids, but still effective. One pro tip courtesy of Sophia Armata? “SPF every day. A retinoid makes your skin super sensitive to the sun. And if you notice more acne before less acne, don’t worry. Just give it some time to work and stick with it.”

If you’re wondering how to actually use this miracle product, let Christina Moore, aka badbrownskinnn, give you the full rundown. “I’ve already noticed a dramatic difference in the reduction of my active breakouts and the breakouts I can never seem to get rid of on my chin,” she raves.

OK, we’re convinced. And if you’re also ready to revamp your routine and finally start seeing clearer skin, visit the Differin Amazon page to purchase the gel—which comes in both the original tube or the new easy-to-use pump—and start preparing for your fall glow-up now.