What does adapalene treat?

Which types of acne does adapalene help?

Adapalene is especially useful for comedones, the medical name for blackheads and whiteheads. These form when pores become blocked with oil and dead skin cells. Retinoids help unclog those pores. Blackheads are not dirt, and scrubbing them can make acne worse.4

Adapalene also helps mild to moderately severe inflammatory acne: raised, inflamed bumps and pimples containing pus. Deep nodules and cysts need a dermatologist's help because they can leave permanent scars. Adapalene alone is not the right treatment for severe acne with these deeper lumps.14

Does adapalene treat marks, scars or wrinkles?

Topical retinoids can help dark marks left after inflammation and may reduce the severity of acne scarring. Those are broader retinoid benefits, rather than a reason to treat every mark or scar with adapalene yourself. Adapalene's established main use is acne; the specific retinoid described for long term wrinkle and sun damage treatment is tretinoin. The family name 'retinoid' is not a job description for every tube.1

How do you use adapalene?

1. 1Gently wash the affected skin with a mild cleanser, then pat it dry.
2. 2Apply a thin film over the entire affected area, not just individual pimples. Keep it away from your eyes, nose and mouth.
3. 3Follow your product or prescription directions. Adapalene is usually applied once daily at bedtime; applying extra does not improve results.
4. 4Use sunscreen during the day and avoid unnecessary sun exposure. A moisturizer can help with dryness.

General retinoid guidance allows starting on alternate nights to limit irritation; check how that fits your prescribed directions. Avoid scrubbing and harsh products. Tell your prescriber about other acne treatments, since combining topical products can add irritation. Choose skincare and makeup labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores, and remove makeup at the end of the day.35

How long does adapalene take to work?

Full benefit can take 8 to 12 weeks or longer. Acne can look worse in the first few weeks as previously unseen pimples come to the surface. Early worsening alone is not a reason to abandon treatment, but burning, significant irritation or persistent pain needs medical advice.2

A dermatologist can combine adapalene with benzoyl peroxide or an antibiotic when needed. If an antibiotic is prescribed, use the whole treatment plan rather than the antibiotic alone, which can lose effectiveness through bacterial resistance. After acne clears, an ongoing topical maintenance plan helps prevent new breakouts and reduce the need for antibiotics. Clear skin is not automatically a retirement notice for the treatment plan.6

Who should be careful, and when should you get help?

Adapalene treats acne in adults and children aged 12 and older. Do not apply it to broken, sunburned or eczema affected skin. Do not use adapalene during pregnancy; discuss alternatives with your clinician. Tell your doctor if you are planning pregnancy or breastfeeding. Avoid hot waxing on treated areas.23

Get emergency help for breathing difficulty or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. See a doctor if acne is not improving, is deep or painful, causes scars, or affects your mental health. Hot, swollen skin can signal infection and also needs medical assessment.27