Many people are looking for ways to manage skin aging at home. Among them, Stieva-A cream, a vitamin A ointment, has long been a beloved product. However, questions like "Stieva-A is being discontinued, what should I use now?" have significantly increased. To get straight to the point, Differin, which belongs to the same retinoid family, is being discussed as a reasonable alternative.
Stieva-A once had a thick fan base, even earning the nickname "the ointment that puts dermatologists out of business." However, with a global pharmaceutical company announcing its discontinuation in Korea, many people are now seeking alternatives. Today, we will look at Differin as a candidate to fill the void left by Stieva-A.
Stieva-A and Differin: What are the ingredients?
Both products belong to the retinoid family. Yes, it's the same retinoid often mentioned in cosmetics. The difference lies in their generation.
The main ingredient of Stieva-A is tretinoin, commonly classified as a first-generation retinoid derivative. The main ingredient of Differin is adapalene, which is a second-generation retinoid. As they are derived from the same main branch, their mechanisms of action are similar, but they are known to differ in terms of usability and irritation levels.
| Category | Stieva-A | Differin |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredient | Tretinoin | Adapalene |
| Generation | 1st Generation Retinoid | 2nd Generation Retinoid |
| Research Accumulation | Relatively extensive | Research on aging is steadily being published |
| Commonality | Prescription drug, requires prescription | Prescription drug, requires prescription |
While adapalene does not have as extensive research on its effects as tretinoin, recent studies supporting its benefits for skin aging are being published one after another.
How Retinoids Work on the Skin
Retinoids are known to promote healthy skin, reduce acne, and improve aged skin. To summarize, they:
- Promote skin regeneration.
- Help prevent skin aging.
- Regulate sebum secretion.
Thanks to these actions, retinoids are often mentioned for those concerned with acne. However, even with the same retinoid, individual skin reactions may vary, so it's necessary to first confirm if it suits your skin.
Expected Changes from Differin
The first action of Differin is to promote collagen production. Some people have experienced improved skin elasticity and reduced fine wrinkles, and it is also reported to help lighten red stretch marks.
The second is an increase in skin cell turnover. Our skin typically sheds old keratin every 28 days, but this cycle slows down with age. When Differin is applied to aged skin, the adapalene ingredient works to boost cell turnover again.
The usage of Differin varies depending on individual skin conditions and desired effects, so it is recommended to consult with a dermatologist before starting.
If you are hesitant about using retinoids for the first time, you can casually inquire about an accurate diagnosis and prescription direction through Chat Consultation for Scars and Skin Concerns.
What to Observe When Applying
Skin treated with Differin becomes sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, it is important to adhere to the timing and method of use. In the clinic, we often see cases where people experience irritation and discontinue use because they didn't follow the instructions.
- Use in the evening as it makes the skin sensitive to sunlight.
- Start with a small amount, as irritation or dryness may occur depending on skin type.
- For sensitive skin, test it once a day at night and observe the reaction, even if it takes longer to see results.
- As it is a prescription drug, it must be used with a prescription.
It is also known to be effective in improving existing wrinkles. However, if deep wrinkles are a concern, dermatological procedures are considered a more effective approach than topical products.
How it Works on Stretch Marks
White stretch marks are a more advanced stage of red stretch marks. In the days before laser treatments, many people applied Stieva-A because it was believed to help with red stretch marks or white stretch marks.
When using Differin instead of Stieva-A, the mechanism of action is the same. Clinically, it can be helpful, but there isn't enough evidence yet to be summarized in a paper. If stretch marks are a significant concern, considering Stretch Mark Treatment along with topical care is a more realistic option.
Summary
Stieva-A cream and Differin are both retinoid prescription drugs that help improve skin. Both products require a prescription, so you will go through a consultation process anyway. Therefore, it is safe to thoroughly discuss any questions with a dermatologist when getting a prescription and choose a Stieva-A alternative that suits your skin.
If you are hesitant about whether Differin is right for your skin type, rather than deciding alone, 💬 Consult Now
Chief Director Lee Sang-Joo (MD, PhD, Yonsei University College of Medicine and Graduate School, Completed Dermatology Residency at Severance Hospital, President of the Korean Dermatological Association) Chief Director Lee Sang-Joo's Profile First Published 2024-01-12 / Last Reviewed 2026-06-16
This article is for general informational purposes only, and as the same ingredients may react differently depending on skin type, please confirm an accurate diagnosis and prescription through consultation with a dermatologist.