FORT WORTH, Texas — Actress Ashley Benson has partnered with Galderma Laboratories L.P. for the national launch of acne treatment Differin Gel.

Ashley Benson

Galderma said Differin Gel is the only Food and Drug Administration-approved, prescription-strength, retinoid acne treatment available over the counter and marks the first significant advancement in the OTC acne category in more than 30 years.

The product received FDA approval this past summer.

Benson, best known for her role as Hanna Marin on the ABC television mystery series “Pretty Little Liars,” hosted a launch event for the Differin product line on Wednesday at the Nestlé Skin Health Investigation, Education, Longevity Development (SHIELD) Center in Manhattan.

Besides the gel product, Galderma — part of Nestlé Skin Health — also will be introducing the non-foaming, fragrance-free Differin Balancing Cleanser and gentle Differin Balancing Moisturizer.

“We are proud and honored to have Ashley supporting the launch of Differin Gel,” stated Miles Harrison, president and general manager of Galderma.

“As someone who is constantly in the spotlight and has dealt with acne as an adult, she knows firsthand how difficult it can be,” Harrison commented. “She represents millions of adult acne sufferers who have tried every treatment on the market with no long-term results. That’s why we’re incredibly happy she is helping us celebrate Differin Gel, a product that will help break the cycle of adult acne frustrations.”

On social media, Benson has been open about her struggle with acne, posting “zit” selfies that have gone viral online. She has suffered periodic breakouts throughout her adult life and is now sharing her positive results after using Differin Gel, according to Galderma.

“Hectic travel schedules and long shoot days have taken a serious toll on my skin,” Benson said in a statement. “That’s why I am so proud to be a part of the national launch of Differin. The retinoid gel is such a game-changer for acne sufferers like me.”

A once-a-day topical containing a retinoid, Differin Gel is clinically proven to treat current and future breakouts. The dermatologist-developed and -tested gel contains adapalene, a safe and effective retinoid that doctors have prescribed to over 40 million people globally for more than 20 years.

Galderma said that according to American Academy of Dermatology’s therapeutic treatment guidelines, topical retinoids are recommended as first-line therapy for all acne cases.

Differin Gel is clear, fragrance-free, oil-free and alcohol-free. The gel is applied once daily directly to the full face or other affected areas. It is approved for use by people 12 years and older with acne.