Retinoids· in 1 product

Adapalene

Also listed as Differin (brand) and Adapalene gel 0.1%

Strong evidence 0.1% OTC (0.3% by prescription)

Adapalene is a synthetic retinoid that has been available over the counter in the US at 0.1% since 2016, when the FDA approved Differin Gel for nonprescription acne use. It is an evidence-backed retinoid for breakouts and clogged pores and is generally better tolerated than tretinoin.

Shop 1 with adapalene All ingredients

1AdAdapaleneRetinoids

What it does

The short version.

Adapalene binds selectively to specific retinoic acid receptors, normalizing how skin cells shed inside the pore so they are less likely to form clogs (comedones). It also has anti-inflammatory activity. With consistent use it reduces blackheads, whiteheads and inflammatory breakouts, and over time can improve texture and the look of acne marks. It is chemically stable and can be used alongside benzoyl peroxide.

Strong evidence

Adapalene is supported by many randomized controlled trials and is recommended in the American Academy of Dermatology's 2024 acne guidelines as a first-line topical retinoid. Evidence for anti-aging use is more limited than for acne.

In our directory: It’s a key ingredient in 1 product we review, most often serums. Those products are mostly built for acne, blackheads and clogged pores.

Reach for it for

Acne Clogged pores Blackheads Pore refining Smoothing Acne marks

Usually a good fit for

Acne-prone skin Oily skin Combination skin

How to use it

Getting it right.

Apply a thin layer to the whole affected area (not just individual spots) once daily in the evening on clean, dry skin. Expect 8–12 weeks before judging results.

Layering

Friends & frenemies.

Pairs well with

Benzoyl peroxide Niacinamide Ceramides Glycerin Hyaluronic acid Panthenol

Go slow with

Glycolic acid Lactic acid Salicylic acid Retinol Retinal Sulfur

Not forbidden — just easier to over-do. Alternate nights or separate morning and evening.

Before you start

Dryness, redness, burning and peeling are common in the first few weeks, and breakouts can seem to worsen briefly. Ask a clinician before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding; retinoids are generally avoided in pregnancy. Use sunscreen and avoid waxing treated skin. Persistent or painful acne should be seen by a dermatologist.

References

Educational, not medical advice. Ingredient guides summarise published research and expert guidance; formulas and concentrations differ between products.

1 product

Every product with adapalene.

1 product

Best overall

Differin

Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment

8.3Great

The formerly prescription-only 0.1% adapalene gel, now OTC: a proven, inexpensive acne retinoid that demands patience through dryness.

Gel5

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