Adapalene

Adapalene is a topical retinoid commonly prescribed to treat acne. It is available as a gel, cream or lotion and is usually applied to the skin once a day.

Adapalene helps keep pores from becoming blocked and reduces the formation of new acne lesions. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect, which makes it useful for different types of acne.

Topical retinoids such as adapalene are considered an important first-line treatment for acne.

Adapalene can be used to treat blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed pimples.

Unlike a spot treatment that is applied only to an individual pimple, adapalene is generally applied to the acne-prone area. This is because it helps prevent pores from becoming blocked and can reduce the formation of new breakouts.

Your dermatologist may prescribe adapalene on its own or combine it with another acne treatment depending on your skin and the severity of your acne.

Adapalene works inside the pores to help prevent them from becoming blocked. This can reduce the formation of blackheads, whiteheads and new pimples. It also helps calm inflammation, which is one of the reasons it can be useful for red and inflamed acne.

The key is consistency and adapalene works over time to control breakouts and help prevent new ones, rather than giving an instant result on one pimple.

If your dermatologist has prescribed adapalene:

1. Gently cleanse your face and pat it dry.
2. Apply a thin layer of adapalene to the acne-prone area.
3. Avoid the eyes, lips and corners of the nose.
4. Wash your hands after applying it.
5. Follow the frequency recommended by your dermatologist.

Usually, adapalene is applied once daily, often in the evening.

You do not need to apply a thick layer. Using more adapalene will not make your acne clear faster and may simply cause more irritation.

If your skin is sensitive, your dermatologist may advise starting less frequently and gradually increasing the application as your skin gets used to it.

This is a common mistake. Adapalene is generally not meant to be used only as a spot treatment.

Acne often develops in areas that are prone to clogged pores, so your dermatologist may ask you to apply a thin layer over the whole acne-prone area, rather than putting a large amount on individual pimples. Follow the application instructions given with your prescription.

Some people notice more dryness, redness, peeling or irritation when they first start using adapalene. This does not necessarily mean that the medicine is harming your skin. Your skin may simply need some time to adjust to the treatment.

However, significant burning, swelling or persistent irritation should not be ignored.

Using a gentle cleanser and moisturiser can help your skin tolerate treatment better. If irritation is troublesome, speak to your dermatologist about adjusting how often you use adapalene.

The most common side effects are related to skin irritation.

You may notice:

• Dryness
• Redness
• Peeling
• Mild burning
• Itching
• Increased sensitivity or irritation

These effects are usually more noticeable when starting treatment and may improve as your skin becomes accustomed to it.

Clinical studies have found adapalene to be effective and generally well tolerated, with irritation typically being mild to moderate and temporary.

One of the biggest mistakes people make with acne treatment is expecting results within a few days. Adapalene needs time to work.

Clinical studies have assessed adapalene over around 10–12 weeks, and acne treatment is generally reviewed after several weeks rather than judged after just a few days. So, if your dermatologist has prescribed adapalene, try to be consistent rather than stopping and starting every few days.

If your acne is not improving or your skin is becoming very irritated, speak to your dermatologist rather than changing the treatment yourself.

Yes. In fact, adapalene is often used as part of a combination treatment. For example, adapalene and benzoyl peroxide can be used together because they work in different ways. Research has found the combination to be more effective than either adapalene or benzoyl peroxide alone in treating acne.

Your dermatologist may also prescribe other treatments depending on your acne.

However, avoid adding several active ingredients yourself. Combining too many products can leave your skin irritated and make it difficult to know which product is causing the problem.

Daily sunscreen is a good habit, especially when you are using acne treatments that may make your skin more sensitive. Use a sunscreen that suits your skin and, if you are prone to breakouts, consider a non-comedogenic formula. Topical adapalene can cause skin irritation and photosensitivity, so appropriate sun protection is important.

Adapalene should not be used during pregnancy. Topical retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy and when planning a pregnancy. If you are pregnant, trying to conceive or think you may be pregnant, speak to your doctor before using adapalene.

If you are breastfeeding, discuss its use with your doctor as well, particularly regarding where the medicine is being applied and avoiding contact with the baby.

No. Both are topical retinoids and are used to treat acne, but they are different medicines.

Studies comparing adapalene with tretinoin have found similar acne improvement, while adapalene has generally been better tolerated, with less irritation in several clinical trials.

Your dermatologist can decide which retinoid is more appropriate for your skin and acne.