Adapalene Gel 0.1% — Reddit Reviews
by Differin
437recommendationsacross 30 Reddit threads
Updated July 9, 2026
What the community says
OTC adapalene 0.1% gel is r/acne's introduction to retinoids for comedonal and inflammatory acne, but expect an intense purging phase and barrier-stripping dryness before it improves your skin.
What people love
- The only prescription-strength retinoid now OTC in the US, making it widely accessible
- Effectively clears clogged pores and comedones with consistent use over months
- Generally gentler than tretinoin, with fewer reports of eczema flare-ups or severe irritation
Watch out for
- Purging phase can be brutal and last 2–3 months or longer before improvement
- Highly drying and irritating for many, especially sensitive, dry, or compromised skin barriers
- Needs very slow introduction and buffering with moisturizers to avoid redness, flakiness, and burning
Product details
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Real Reddit threads
30 threads from r/SkincareAddiction, r/tretinoin +4 more
