Is Differin a Steroid Cream? I have Perioral dermatitis, Any creams OK?

After having flawless skin as a teenager, now, at 21, I have moderate acne, all around my chin, mouth, and bridge of nose area... I have been to the doctor, and he prescribed Differin, which did not work, and am not on Monocycline. The doctor could not tell me what kind of Acne it was, so I have self diagnosed myself as having Perioral Dermatitis. As I am researching treatments for this type of acne, it always says not to use any kind of creams, cosmetics or steroid creams... I have continued to use differin as well as monocyclin, but I am wondering if Differin is a Steroid Cream? And also, how am I supposed to moisturize my skin without using any creams? are there any creams on the market that are OK for people with periorial dermatitus???

[loiloi]

Hi. Differin is NOT a steroid cream. It is a topical synthetic retinoid and contains the active ingredient adapalene.
Acne responds slowly to oral antibiotcs and you will have to take a tetracycline for about 12 weeks before seeing an improvement, which is why it is a good idea to use Differin at the same time.
If you need a moisturiser, use an oil-free one. Clinique, Estee Lauder and Clarins all make good ones.
Eloise.