
Adapalene Gel 0.1%
OTC retinoid with acne-fighting strength similar to low-dose tretinoin
What the community says
Pros
- OTC retinoid with acne-fighting strength similar to low-dose tretinoin
- Very effective for clearing and preventing clogged pores including closed comedones
- Generally better tolerated than tretinoin, good starting point before prescription retinoids
Cons
- Initial purging can last several weeks with painful breakouts before improvement
- Common irritation includes dryness, flaking, redness, and potential barrier damage if overused
- Not a spot treatment: requires consistent application on entire affected areas to work properly
Product details
Concerns
Use caution
Product Traits
Key Ingredients
Commonly Used With
CeraVe
4 threads
3 threads
Vanicream
3 threads
Dupes & Alternatives
5 shared traits
22 recommendations
The Ordinary
2 shared traits
12 recommendations
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
The Ordinary
2 shared traits
7 recommendations
Where to buy
Available on Amazon