Rx
Adapalene cream illustration

Adapalene

ah·dap·ah·leen

We design your personalised formula using science-backed ingredients.


Targets

Acne, signs of ageing, skin texture


Strength

0.1–0.3%

Evidence

See studies

Key benefits

  • Targets acne illustration

    Targets acne

    Unclogs pores, treats acne spots, and prevents breakouts

  • Improves skin texture illustration

    Improves skin texture

    Smoothes skin and adds a soft glow

  • Improve signs of ageing illustration

    Improve signs of ageing

    Retinoids help to reverse photodamage while regenerating dermal collagen

“Adapalene is an important part of a routine to clear acne, especially when combined with actives like benzoyl peroxide.”
Dr Catriona Maybury - Consultant Dermatologist

Dr Catriona Maybury
Consultant Dermatologist

Woman face with applied cream on the cheek

Understanding adapalene

  • A third-generation topical retinoid, most often used to treat acne where comedones, papules and pustules predominate
  • Softens fine lines and restores dermal collagen
  • Improves skin texture and tightens loose, sagging skin

Delving into the details

Targets acne: Topical retinoids have been used to treat acne for almost four decades. They’re recommended as a first line treatment option either on their own or in combination with other treatments for mild acne.

Fights signs of ageing: There is some evidence that adapalene can be used as second line treatment for people who are intolerant to conventional topical retinoids like tretinoin.

Show me the studies

0
studies on Adapalene

Cutting-edge ingredients require cutting-edge research. Our Clinical Advisory Board and Dermatology Team keep on top of the latest evidence to make sure our personalised formulas are the best they can be.

  • Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris

    Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Zaenglein AL, Pathy AL, Schlosser BJ, Alikhan A, Baldwin HE, Berson DS, et al. 2016;74(5):945-73. e33.

  • A review of the use of adapalene for the treatment of acne vulgaris

    Therapeutics and clinical risk management. Piskin S, Uzunali E, et al. 2007;3(4):621

  • A review of adapalene in the treatment of acne vulgaris

    Journal of Adolescent Health. Irby CE, Yentzer BA, Feldman SR, et al. 2008;43(5):421-4

  • Comparison of adapalene 0.1% solution and tretinoin 0.025% gel in the topical treatment of acne vulgaris

    Ellis C, Millikan L, Smith E, Chalker D, Swinyer L, Katz I, et al. 1998

Before
Dermatica - Nathalia's before picture
After
Dermatica - Nathalia's after picture

Nathalia's journey


Duration 7 months

“I have my self confidence back and don’t feel ashamed of showing my bare face.”
Before
Dermatica - Umy's before picture
After
Dermatica - Umy's after picture

Umy's journey


Duration 8 months

“I now feel more confident in public. I wish I'd known about Dermatica sooner!”

Dermatology, designed for you

Dermatology designed for you
  • A personalised formula, developed by experts

    You’ll get a personalised, evidence-based treatment, tailored to your treatment goals.

  • Delivered to you every 28 days (approx.)

    Your bespoke plan arrives every 28 days (approximately), and adapts to your skin’s progress.

  • 24/7 support

    You’ll have free, unlimited access to dermatology experts, whenever you need.

  • You’re in total control

    You can pause, reschedule or cancel your plan online. No strings attached.

First month £2.90

then £24.99/month

Got questions about adapalene?

What is Adapalene?
Adapalene is a third-generation topical retinoid primarily used in the treatment of mild-moderate acne and wrinkles.

Adapalene prevents breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads, blemishes and clogged pores as well while restoring skin tone and texture by clearing acne. Adapalene can help reduce the risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation by treating acne.
How does Adapalene work?
Adapalene improves and repairs the epidermal (hyperpigmentation and surface roughness) and dermal (fine wrinkles) layers in the skin. It also reduces excess propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria associated with acne development.
What are the side effects of using Adapalene?
All medications have some side effects so it is important to be aware, however, do not be alarmed as you may not experience them.

Many of the side effects associated with Adapalene last for only a short time and can resolve after a few weeks of use. Using a lower strength Adapalene product to begin with can reduce the likelihood of side effects.

Some of the most common side effects are:
  • dry and peeling skin
  • burning and stinging
  • irritation and inflammation
  • red, raised areas on the skin
  • rash or itching
  • change in skin colour
  • disturbance of the levels of enzymes in the liver (this is rare, however tell your doctor that you are using Adapalene.)

It is important to immediately stop use and go to your nearest hospital emergency department should you have an allergic reaction to Adapalene. Signs of an allergic reaction include a skin rash, itching, shortness of breath and/or a swollen face.