Differin gel for scars: what to know

A flat brown or red mark after acne is often a colour change rather than a true scar. Adapalene may support clearer pores and reduce new breakouts, which can limit fresh marks while existing colour slowly fades. An indented scar reflects a change in skin structure; a firm, raised scar contains excess scar tissue. Neither is simply a blocked pore.

Skin tone can look worse temporarily if irritation causes inflammation. This is especially relevant for people who develop dark marks after minor skin injury.

If appropriate for your skin, apply a thin layer of adapalene in the evening to clean, dry areas as directed. Moisturiser and daily sun protection help reduce dryness and prevent colour changes from becoming more noticeable. Do not apply it to an open wound, fresh procedure site, or actively peeling skin.

Do not pick acne or massage a thickened scar without advice. A dermatologist can match treatment to the scar type; background on [Adapalene](/materials/adapalene/) and [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/) may help you prepare.

Book an assessment if a scar is growing beyond the original injury, becoming painful or itchy, restricting movement, or changing quickly. Seek advice for pus, spreading redness, warmth, or fever around a healing wound. A persistent mark should be diagnosed before stronger products or procedures are started.

Ask whether your concern is post-acne colour, an indented scar, a raised scar, or ongoing acne. Discuss a suitable starting frequency, expected irritation, sun protection, and whether another treatment would address texture more directly.