What is adapalene prescribed for?

What does adapalene do?

Adapalene is a topical retinoid, a medicine with vitamin A activity that you apply to the skin. It regulates how skin cells are replaced and shed, helping keep pores from clogging. Acne starts when excess oil and dead skin cells block hair follicles; bacteria in those blocked follicles can cause inflammation and pus.34

Adapalene controls acne rather than curing it. A dermatologist can also use a topical retinoid as maintenance treatment to keep acne under control after it clears. Adapalene is commonly used for mild to moderate acne, while more serious acne can need a treatment plan with additional medicines.156

Do you always need a prescription?

No. In the US, adapalene is available in nonprescription gels, including Differin Gel, as well as prescription products. Prescription forms include creams, gels, lotions and liquids. Epiduo and Epiduo Forte combine adapalene with benzoyl peroxide. Product names give the shelf plenty to say, but choosing an acne treatment starts with the active ingredient rather than the branding.123

How do you apply adapalene?

1. 1Follow your prescription or package directions. Adapalene is usually applied once daily at bedtime.
2. 2Wash your hands, gently cleanse the affected skin and pat it dry. Avoid scrubbing.
3. 3For a gel or cream, spread a thin film over the whole affected area, not just individual spots. Follow the applicator directions for other forms.
4. 4Keep adapalene away from your eyes, nose and mouth. Wash your hands afterwards unless your hands are the treatment area.

What should you use alongside it?

For mild adult acne treated at home, start with one acne treatment and give it time before adding another. Choosing a treatment means checking its active ingredient, not holding a popularity contest among bottles.2

Do not add other acne products to the same area unless your clinician directs you to. Avoid abrasive cleansers and products that dry the skin, including alcohol based products. If irritation develops, your dermatologist can adjust the amount or frequency, or advise applying moisturizer first.56

Adapalene can increase sun sensitivity. Avoid tanning beds, seek shade and wear protective clothing. Use a water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays on uncovered skin.56

How long does adapalene take to work?

Allow 8 to 12 weeks or longer for the full benefit. Acne can look worse during the first few weeks as previously unseen pimples reach the surface. Continue as directed through early breakouts, but contact your clinician about irritation. Applying more or using adapalene more often will not speed up results.1

Who should be careful?

Tell your clinician before starting if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using adapalene, call your doctor. Tell your clinician about sensitive skin, eczema, allergies and other medicines or skincare products you use. Do not apply adapalene to sunburned, broken or eczema affected skin until it heals.16

Dryness, redness and mild irritation can occur. Contact your care team about burning, itching, crusting or peeling, or irritation that persists or becomes bothersome. Stop using adapalene and seek urgent medical help for a suspected allergic reaction, especially trouble breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.16

See a doctor if acne is deep, painful, causing scars or affecting your mental health, or if treatment is not helping. Those situations need assessment rather than simply adding more products.4