Galderma Laboratories secures approval for OTC use of Differin Gel to treat acne

US-based Galderma Laboratories has secured approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Differin Gel, which can be used as an over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatment.

This approval makes Differin Gel the only OTC acne product with a complete prescription-strength retinoid. 

The firm also claimed that this approval marks the first new, FDA-approved active ingredient to be introduced to the OTC acne category in more than 30 years.

Galderma Laboratories president and general manager Miles Harrison said: "We believe bringing Differin Gel over-the-counter will be a game-changer for consumers and for the acne category."

Acne is a common skin condition in the US that affects up to 60 million teenagers and adults a year.