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Adapalene
AdapaleneActive
Synthetic third-generation retinoid. Evidence puts it close to tretinoin for acne, with a milder irritation profile.
What it does
Adapalene binds selectively to retinoic acid receptors involved in keratinization, making it especially useful for acne. It's more photostable than tretinoin and generally better tolerated. 0.1% is OTC in many regions (USA included); 0.3% requires a prescription. Onset for acne improvement is typically 8–12 weeks.
The evidence, graded
strongNo topical retinoid is recommended in pregnancy. The class covers tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene, trifarotene, retinol, retinaldehyde, retinyl palmitate and hydroxypinacolone retinoate. Direct human data exist mainly for tretinoin and adapalene. The caution extends to the rest as a class-effect. Data on accidental exposure reassure, but are not strong enough to recommend any retinoid here. Oral isotretinoin is a separate case, with an absolute contraindication.Kaplan 2015 · British Journal of Dermatology ↗
strongRetinoids show visible results in 8–12 weeks of consistent use. Fine lines, photoaging, and texture improvements compound over 6–12 months and beyond.Kang 2005 · Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology ↗
expert consensusFor cosmetic anti-aging purposes, retinoids are not recommended under 18. Teen skin is already producing high collagen and cell turnover, and retinoid use in young people is reserved for treating conditions like acne — not for prevention of aging.Motamedi 2021 · Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery ↗
emergingOlder tretinoin formulations are partially deactivated by benzoyl peroxide when layered, but newer micro-encapsulated formulations are designed to combine. Some prescriptions intentionally combine them.Martin 1998 · British Journal of Dermatology ↗
Graded per the methodology: strong · moderate · emerging · expert consensus. A weak source on a strong claim gets the weaker label.
Also known as
differin
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