MS Aqueous Gel
MS Aqueous Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A minimalist, prescription-strength adapalene 0.1% aqueous gel formulated with microsphere technology for targeted acne treatment. This lightweight retinoid gel by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals unclogs pores, normalizes skin cell turnover, and reduces inflammation to clear mild-to-moderate acne including blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
Microsphere Delivery System
Adapalene is encapsulated in microspheres for controlled, sustained release into the skin, reducing irritation compared to standard retinoid formulations.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMicrosphere Delivery System
Adapalene is encapsulated in microspheres for controlled, sustained release into the skin, reducing irritation compared to standard retinoid formulations.
Unclogs Pores & Prevents Breakouts
Normalizes the shedding of dead skin cells inside the follicle to prevent comedone formation, targeting blackheads and whiteheads at their source.
Anti-Inflammatory Action
Adapalene reduces redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with inflamed acne lesions, helping pimples heal faster and minimizing scarring risk.
Ultra-Minimalist Formula
Contains only 3 ingredients total. No fragrances, oils, parabens, silicones, or sulfates—ideal for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains adapalene (a retinoid). Retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy due to risk of birth defects. Discontinue use immediately if you become pregnant.
Minimal systemic absorption when applied topically. Avoid applying to the chest area to prevent infant contact. Consult your doctor before use.
Contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, ferments, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Water-based gel with no pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Will not clog pores or worsen existing acne.
Adapalene increases photosensitivity. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day and avoid excessive sun exposure while using this product.
Skin may appear worse during the first 2-4 weeks as the retinoid accelerates cell turnover. This is normal and temporary. Improvement typically starts after 4-8 weeks.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAdapalene (as Microspheres) 0.1%Proven
A third-generation synthetic retinoid that selectively binds to retinoic acid receptors (RAR-beta and RAR-gamma) in the skin. It normalizes follicular cell differentiation, prevents microcomedone formation, and possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mechanism: Regulates keratinocyte differentiation and reduces inflammatory mediators (AP-1, toll-like receptors)
- Clinical Data: Proven effective in multiple clinical trials for mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris with significant reduction in both comedonal and inflammatory lesions
- Stability: More chemically stable and less irritating than tretinoin, with comparable long-term efficacy
- Microsphere Benefit: Controlled release technology reduces peak skin concentration, minimizing irritation while maintaining efficacy
Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate 0.1%Promising
A methyl ester of dihydroxybenzoic acid with antioxidant and mild antibacterial properties. It supports the overall formulation by providing supplementary skin-conditioning benefits alongside adapalene.
- Function: Antioxidant and skin-conditioning agent that may complement the retinoid's action on acne
- Profile: A gentle, well-tolerated ingredient that contributes to the overall therapeutic effect of the gel
Phenoxyethanol 0.25%Preservative
A widely used, broad-spectrum preservative that prevents microbial growth in the product. Considered one of the safest preservative options available, often used as an alternative to parabens.
- Safety: Approved by the EU at concentrations up to 1%. Used here well within safe limits at 0.25%
- Function: Provides antimicrobial protection to maintain product integrity throughout its shelf life
3 ingredients
Adapalene (as Microspheres) 0.1% w/w, Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate 0.1%, Phenoxyethanol 0.25%, in an aqueous gel base q.s.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply once daily in the evening on clean, dry skin. Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen the following morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Wash your face with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser. Pat skin completely dry with a soft towel — do not rub. Wait 5-10 minutes after washing before applying.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount onto your fingertip. Dot the gel onto forehead, chin, nose, and each cheek. Gently spread a thin, even layer over the entire affected area.
Avoid Sensitive Areas
Keep the gel away from eyes, nostrils, lips, and any open wounds, cuts, or sunburned skin. If accidental contact occurs, rinse immediately with warm water.
Moisturize & Protect
After the gel has absorbed (about 1-2 minutes), apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer. In the morning, always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen before sun exposure.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate acne with blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples
- You want a retinoid that is gentler than tretinoin
- You prefer an ultra-minimalist, fragrance-free formula
- You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
- You want to improve skin texture and prevent new comedones
- You are looking for a fungal acne-safe retinoid treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding (retinoid)
- You have severe cystic or nodular acne (may need oral treatment)
- You have eczema, sunburn, or severely compromised skin barrier
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You need immediate results (adapalene takes 4-8+ weeks)
- You are under 12 years of age
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Water-based, oil-free gel helps control sebum production. Matte finish won't add shine. Unclogs oily, congested pores effectively.
Lightweight gel formula works well across different face zones. Targets oily T-zone breakouts without over-drying drier areas when paired with moisturizer.
Specifically designed for acne treatment. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne-safe, and clinically proven to reduce comedonal and inflammatory acne lesions.
Microsphere technology helps reduce irritation, but adapalene can still cause dryness, redness, and peeling. Start with every other day use and buffer with moisturizer.
May increase dryness and flaking. Must be paired with a rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Consider cream-based adapalene formulations as an alternative.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12+Initial Adjustment (Purging Phase)
Skin may experience mild dryness, redness, or peeling as it adjusts. Some users notice an initial increase in breakouts (purging) — this is normal as trapped comedones surface faster.
60% noticed initial purgingReduced Irritation, Early Clearing
Dryness and redness typically begin to subside. You may start to see fewer new whiteheads and blackheads forming. Skin starts adjusting to the retinoid.
40% noticed early improvementVisible Improvement
Noticeable reduction in acne lesions including pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Skin texture starts feeling smoother. Pores appear less congested and oil production better regulated.
70% noticed significant clearingFull Results & Maintenance
Maximum therapeutic benefit typically reached. Skin appears clearer, smoother, and more even-toned. Continue daily use for ongoing prevention of new breakouts and further texture improvement.
85% achieved clearer skinRatings by platform
801+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-minimalist formula with only 3 ingredients — reduces irritation risk
- Microsphere technology for sustained, controlled adapalene release
- Fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, silicone-free
- Fungal acne (malassezia) safe formulation
- Very affordable compared to Western adapalene brands
- Effective for blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory acne
- Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without greasiness
- Manufactured by Glenmark, a reputable pharmaceutical company
Criticized
- Initial purging period can last 2-4 weeks with increased breakouts
- May cause dryness, redness, peeling, and stinging early on
- Small 15g tube size runs out quickly with daily use
- Requires prescription in India (not available OTC like Differin in the US)
- Not safe for use during pregnancy
- Increases sun sensitivity — daily sunscreen is mandatory
- Results take 4-8+ weeks of consistent use to become visible
- Limited international availability outside Indian pharmacies
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same active ingredient (adapalene 0.1%) in a similar gel base. Widely available OTC in the US. Contains slightly more inactive ingredients (carbomer, poloxamer, propylene glycol) but identical therapeutic action.
Same adapalene 0.1% concentration from the trusted La Roche-Posay dermatology brand. Larger 45g size. Nearly identical inactive ingredients to Differin. Slightly more cosmetically elegant texture.
Affordable OTC adapalene 0.1% option with the same proven active ingredient. 15g tube, same size as Deriva MS. Standard gel formulation without the microsphere delivery system.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store below 25°C in a cool, dark, and dry place. Protect from direct sunlight. Do not freeze.
Aluminum tube with screw cap (15g)
Yes — compact 15g tube is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo — Deriva MS Aqueous Gel is NOT safe during pregnancy. It contains adapalene, a retinoid that is classified as highly unsafe in pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects and pregnancy loss. Discontinue use immediately if you become pregnant or are planning to conceive. For breastfeeding, available data suggest minimal passage into breast milk, but you should avoid applying it to the chest area and consult your doctor before use.
Yes — Deriva MS Aqueous Gel is fungal acne safe. Its ultra-minimalist formula of just 3 ingredients contains no oils, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or ferments that can feed malassezia yeast. The aqueous (water-based) gel base makes it one of the cleanest retinoid options available for those prone to fungal acne.
Use caution when combining with other active ingredients. Avoid using Deriva MS with benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid (BHA), AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), or other retinoids at the same time, as this may increase irritation, dryness, and peeling. Vitamin C can be used in the morning routine while applying Deriva MS at night. If your dermatologist prescribes a combination regimen, follow their specific guidance carefully.
Deriva MS Aqueous Gel is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The lightweight, oil-free aqueous gel absorbs quickly and helps regulate excess sebum production. It can be used on sensitive skin with careful introduction (starting every other day), but those with very dry skin may prefer a cream-based adapalene formulation paired with a rich moisturizer.
Most users begin to notice early improvement after 2-4 weeks, with significant visible results typically appearing at the 4-8 week mark. Full therapeutic benefits are usually achieved after 8-12 weeks of consistent daily use. An initial purging phase during weeks 1-4 is normal — acne may temporarily appear worse before improving. Do not discontinue use during this period unless directed by your doctor.
Apply Deriva MS Aqueous Gel in your evening routine after cleansing and (optionally) toning. Apply to clean, completely dry skin — waiting 5-10 minutes after washing is recommended. Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. In the morning, use a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF 30+ sunscreen. Do not apply the gel before sun exposure.
No — Deriva MS Aqueous Gel has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. It is a water-based gel that contains no oils, waxes, silicones, or heavy emollients that could clog pores. In fact, adapalene actively works to unclog pores by normalizing the shedding of skin cells inside follicles, making it an excellent choice for congested, acne-prone skin.
Deriva MS Aqueous Gel should be used within 12 months of opening. Store it below 25°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Check the expiry date printed on the tube — the manufacturer typically ensures a minimum of 6 months shelf life at the time of dispatch. A 15g tube generally lasts about 4-6 weeks with once-daily, pea-sized application to the full face.
Verdict: Deriva MS Aqueous Gel is an exceptionally clean, no-frills adapalene 0.1% treatment that stands out for its ultra-minimalist 3-ingredient formula and microsphere delivery technology. It delivers the same clinically proven retinoid benefits as premium brands like Differin and La Roche-Posay at a fraction of the cost. The oil-free, fungal acne-safe formulation makes it an excellent choice for oily and acne-prone skin. The main drawbacks are limited availability (primarily Indian pharmacies, requires prescription), a small 15g tube size, and the expected retinoid adjustment period. If you can access it, it offers outstanding value as a targeted, gentle-yet-effective acne treatment backed by solid pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing from Glenmark.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Adapalene
|
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate
|
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|