If you’re battling with stubborn or persistent acne, skin aging, scarring, and other problems, your doctor may prescribe you a medication like Adapalene. Adapalene is a skin care treatment that belongs to a class of drugs known as retinoids. Retinoids are primarily used to treat acne, inflammation, redness, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and other topical skin issues.

It is just one of many retinoids–other popular options include Tretinoin and Tazarotene, to name a couple. These medications are well-known and used in the dermatology community, which helps people treat chronic skin problems to achieve a healthy glow.

How Retinoids Like Adapalene Work

Retinoids are derived from vitamin A and help the skin to regulate production of epidermal growth. When our skin cells die off, they can remain on the skin and clog pores. Retinoids help by exfoliating the skin to remove those dead cells. They also reduce inflammation and redness, help promote cell turnover, and create collagen. Although retinoids vary in their strengths, they are powerful medications that are fairly effective at treating acne.

When retinoids work well for a patient, they have a number of potential benefits. In addition to clearing up zits, pimples, and cystic acne, it can also reduce the appearance of:

• hyperpigmentation
• fine lines and wrinkles
• dry and scaly skin
• uneven skin texture
• rosacea
• swelling

By boosting collagen, it can also help thicken skin, reduce excessive oil production, and create more supple skin by improving elasticity.

Adapalene Vs. Alternative Retinoids

Adapalene is slightly less potent than some other retinoids, and it works more on a surface level than medications like Tretinoin. However, this doesn’t necessarily make it less useful or effective. Every patient has different needs, and some may benefit from surface treatment more than others.

Adapalene is newer than other retinoids and is known as a third-generation retinoid designed to be gentler than first or second-generation medications. Since it doesn’t cause harsh drying or irritation, it can be used with other medications like benzoyl peroxide. While it’s not as effective at treating fine lines and wrinkles as other retinoids, it works comparatively well for acne.

Some dermatologists also use medications called retinols, which are milder and often available over-the-counter. Retinols are also derived from vitamin A and are ideal for people who battle with skin irritation and dryness.

Is Adapalene Right for Me?

No two people experience acne the same way, so only you and your doctor can determine which retinoid or retinol medication may help with your particular skin troubles.

However, there are a few signs that you may be a good candidate for Adapalene. Persistent mild or moderate acne, redness, and chronic irritation or sensitivity can all be helped by Adapalene.

You should not use Adapalene if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have eczema, or are under 12. Additionally, it’s vital to talk to your healthcare provider about any other medications you may be taking to prevent negative interactions.

It’s important to use this medication daily as directed by your healthcare provider. Adapalene can make acne worse before it gets better as your skin starts to purge, so don’t stop using it if you notice increased problems or irritation initially. If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor before stopping Adapalene use.

Final Thoughts

If you still aren’t sure whether Adapalene may be right for you, that’s okay. Our providers can help you determine your skincare goals and access retinoids like Adapalene to finally conquer your acne or skin troubles for good. It may take some time to see results, but it is often well worth the wait.

Citations

1. Tolaymat L, Dearborn H, Zito PM. Adapalene. [Updated 2023 Jun 26]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.
2. Motamedi, M., Chehade, A., Sanghera, R., & Grewal, P. (2022). A Clinician’s Guide to Topical Retinoids. Journal of cutaneous medicine and surgery, 26(1), 71–78.
3. Zasada, M., & Budzisz, E. (2019). Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Postepy dermatologii i alergologii, 36(4), 392–397.