Yes, You Should Be Using Adapalene If You Have Acne

What Is Adapalene?

According to dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD, adapalene is “a newer generation of synthetic retinoid that was developed to improve skin (and acne!).” In comparison to other retinoids, adapalene is ”more chemically stable and has a greater affinity for the receptors that tretinoin targets.” That basically just means it’s more potent than traditional retinoids and works to turn over cells faster.

How Does It Work?

Adapalene, and all retinol varieties, work by “stimulating the production of collagen and by regulating the cell cycle to behave more like a younger cell,” says Dr. Nazarian. Essentially, with continued use (about three months or more), it can help to “decrease wrinkles through its boosted production of collagen, minimize sun spots through enhancement of cell-turnover (which means it encourages new skin to form and replace old damaged skin), and improve the texture of skin through its accelerated cell turnover.”

Even if you don’t have acne, adapalene is a great skincare choice to fight fine lines and wrinkles. 

What Are the Benefits of Adapalene?

• Fights Acne: Adapalene is a standout retinoid for fighting acne because “it will decrease oil production with continued use, and can keep pores clean and unclogged through its gentle exfoliation of dead skin cells,” explains Dr. Nazarian. 

• Works On Many Skin Types: Unlike other retinoids, adapalene is one of the most well-tolerated for a variety of skin types. However, “Skin types that have the most to worry about are sensitive or super dry people who are the most prone to irritation and inflammation,” says Dr. Nazarian. “Additionally, people with sensitive skin conditions like rosacea need to tread very lightly and use the guidance of their board-certified dermatologist before initiating.”

• Helps Stimulate Collagen: As mentioned above, adapalene works wonders at stimulating collagen and promoting cell turnover.

• Potent & Effective: “Unlike retinol, it doesn't have to be converted to an active form, so it's considered stronger and more potent,” says Dr. Nazarian. 

Are There Any Side Effects to Adapalene?

Like with any new skincare ingredients, you should always do a patch test to see how your skin will react. Additionally, “you should always assume that your skin will need time to adjust and start with two times a week regardless of the retinol you choose,” says Dr. Nazarian. Another tip is pairing your adapalene use with a gentle cleanser, and to use a moisturizer after you apply your retinol. “After the first week, if your skin isn’t showing any signs of sensitivity, you can slowly increase the number of times a week you’re using the product,” she adds. 

How Do You Incorporate Adapalene Into Your Skincare Routine?

If you are incorporating adapalene into your skincare routine, the most important thing to remember is not to use any other retinoid with it. “Only a small amount is needed,” says Dr. Nazarian. She adds that “it doesn’t degrade in sunlight, so can be used either morning or evening, although I prefer nighttime. Like other retinols and retinoids, it does make you a little more sensitive to burning, and should always be accompanied with the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen—minimum SPF 30.” Also, don’t forget to check the ingredients of your other skincare products to make sure nothing else contains retinoids if you’re using adapalene.

Adapalene FAQs

How do retinoids differ from retinols?

Retinols are all retinoids, but retinoids are not all retinols. Essentially, retinoids are the most powerful retinols, and usually require a prescription due to their strength.

Who can use adapalene?

“My general rule is: if you’re asking about it, it’s probably time to use it,” says Dr. Nazarian. Just remember that it “takes about three to six months to see results, so it’s important to stay committed and diligent with your regimen.” Additionally, as long as you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding, or have an allergic reaction, you can use retinols. Make sure to discuss any new ingredient that you add to your skincare ingredient with your dermatologist. 

Can adapalene help with acne?

Yes, adapalene is one of the best retinoid choices to fight acne because it helps to decrease oil production, unclog pores, and prevent new zits from forming.