Should adapalene go before or after moisturizer?

How do I apply adapalene and moisturizer?

1. 1Remove makeup, then gently wash with a mild cleanser. Avoid scrubbing and pat your skin dry.
2. 2Apply a thin layer of adapalene over the entire area affected by acne, rather than only individual pimples. Keep it away from your eyelids, lips, eyes, nose and mouth.
3. 3For standalone adapalene cream or gel, let the medication absorb before applying moisturizer. Differin tells users of its Epiduo Acne Gel, which also contains benzoyl peroxide, to moisturize immediately afterwards.
4. 4Wash your hands after applying the medication.
5. 5Use sunscreen the next morning. Choose broad spectrum, water resistant SPF 30 or higher, and use shade and protective clothing.

Adapalene is usually applied once daily at bedtime. Follow your package or prescription directions rather than adding extra applications. Using more will not clear acne faster and can increase irritation.13

When does moisturizer first make sense?

Moisturizer first is an option to discuss if a retinoid has irritated your skin before. A dermatologist can also adjust the amount or frequency. Make those changes with their help, especially if adapalene is part of a prescription routine. You do not need to switch the order simply because someone else's routine does.2

Which moisturizer should I use?

For acne with dry skin, choose a fragrance free, water based moisturizer. Look for noncomedogenic products, meaning they are less likely to block pores. A plain moisturizer is useful here; the cream does not need an extracurricular career as an exfoliant.5

Keep the supporting routine simple, because a bathroom shelf is not obliged to become a chemistry department. Avoid other retinoids, abrasive cleansers, strong drying products and peeling agents such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid while using adapalene. Check additional acne medicines with your pharmacist rather than treating them as ordinary moisturizer.1

What if my skin becomes dry or irritated?

Dryness, redness and irritation can occur during the first two to four weeks. For sensitive skin, a clinician can suggest starting two to three times weekly and increasing towards nightly use as tolerated. Moisturizer helps with dryness, but changing the layering order is not a reason to push through worsening irritation. If your skin gets very irritated, reduce use or pause temporarily. Stop and contact your doctor if irritation is severe or does not improve.13

How long should I wait for results?

Adapalene helps regulate skin cell turnover to keep pores from clogging. Acne can initially look worse as previously unseen pimples reach the surface. Full benefit can take eight to twelve weeks or longer. Early breakouts alone are not a reason to stop, but irritation needs separate attention. See a doctor if pharmacy treatments do not control your acne, or if you develop nodules or cysts.356

When should I not apply adapalene?

Do not apply adapalene to sunburned, broken or eczema affected skin; wait until it heals. Stop treatment and contact your doctor if you think you are pregnant. Discuss planned pregnancy or breastfeeding before use. Get urgent medical help for difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of your eyes, face, lips, tongue or throat.13