Adapalene Gel 0.1%
Adapalene Gel 0.1%
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength retinoid acne treatment containing 0.1% adapalene. This third-generation synthetic retinoid regulates skin cell turnover to clear and prevent breakouts, blackheads, and clogged pores while being gentler than tretinoin.
Third-Generation Retinoid
Adapalene is a synthetic retinoid designed to be more stable and less irritating than first-generation tretinoin while maintaining comparable efficacy.
Texture & feel
SENSORYThird-Generation Retinoid
Adapalene is a synthetic retinoid designed to be more stable and less irritating than first-generation tretinoin while maintaining comparable efficacy.
Targets Acne at the Source
Works deep in pores within 5 minutes to regulate cell turnover, prevent comedones, and reduce inflammation for clearer skin.
Photostable Formula
Unlike tretinoin, adapalene is chemically stable when exposed to light, though evening application is still recommended for best results.
Anti-Aging Benefits
Promotes collagen production and cell renewal for improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, and faded post-acne marks over time.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAdapalene is a retinoid and should be avoided during pregnancy. While topical absorption is minimal, oral retinoids are known teratogens. Discontinue use when trying to conceive.
Limited data available. If used while nursing, apply only to areas away from the chest and ensure baby's skin does not contact treated areas.
This formula contains no fatty acids, oils, esters, or fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for pityrosporum folliculitis.
Oil-free, water-based gel formula will not clog pores. Comedogenic rating: 0/5.
Retinoids thin the stratum corneum. Daily SPF 30+ sunscreen is essential. Avoid tanning beds and prolonged sun exposure.
FDA approved for use in children 12 years and older. Not studied in children under 12.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAdapalene 0.1%Proven
A third-generation synthetic retinoid that normalizes follicular epithelial cell differentiation, reducing microcomedone formation. Also has anti-inflammatory properties comparable to betamethasone.
- Clinical Study: Up to 87% reduction in acne lesions after 12 weeks of daily use
- Meta-analysis: Comparable efficacy to tretinoin 0.025% with better tolerability
- Mechanism: Binds to retinoic acid nuclear receptors (RAR-β and RAR-γ) to regulate gene expression
Propylene Glycol HumectantSupporting
A lightweight humectant that helps retain moisture in the skin while also enhancing the penetration of adapalene for better efficacy.
- Function: Solvent, humectant, and penetration enhancer
- Safety: Well-tolerated in most formulations; rare sensitivity in some individuals
Carbomer Gel BaseSupporting
A polymer that creates the gel consistency, providing a non-tacky, lightweight texture that spreads easily and absorbs quickly into skin.
- Function: Thickening agent and gel matrix
- Benefit: Creates stable, even distribution of active ingredient
8 ingredients
Active: Adapalene 0.1% (Retinoid). Inactive: Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, Poloxamer 182, Disodium EDTA, Purified Water, Sodium Hydroxide. May contain Hydrochloric Acid to adjust pH.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply PM only. Wait 20-30 minutes after cleansing for skin to fully dry before application. Can be applied before or after moisturizer (buffering).
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash face with a mild, non-medicated cleanser. Pat dry completely and wait 20-30 minutes to ensure skin is fully dry.
Apply Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount onto fingertip. Apply as a thin layer to the entire face, not just active breakouts.
Avoid Sensitive Areas
Avoid eyes, lips, corners of nose, and mucous membranes. Do not apply to cut, abraded, sunburned, or eczematous skin.
Follow with Moisturizer
Wait 5-10 minutes, then apply a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizer to counteract potential dryness.
Use Sunscreen Daily
Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning. Retinoids increase photosensitivity even when applied at night.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate acne (comedonal or inflammatory)
- You want prescription-strength results without a prescription
- Previous retinoids (tretinoin) were too irritating
- You have blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You want anti-aging benefits alongside acne treatment
- You have fungal acne and need an FA-safe retinoid
- You're 12 years or older with teen or adult acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- You have severe nodular or cystic acne (may need oral medication)
- Your skin barrier is currently compromised or inflamed
- You are allergic to adapalene or any ingredients
- You cannot commit to consistent sunscreen use
- You need faster results (benzoyl peroxide works quicker)
- You have extremely sensitive skin with rosacea flares
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free gel formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Helps regulate sebum and clear clogged pores effectively.
May increase dryness and flaking initially. Use rich moisturizer and consider buffering method. Start every other day.
Ideal match. Lightweight gel works well across different face zones without over-drying or adding excess moisture.
Better tolerated than tretinoin. Start slowly (2-3x/week) and gradually increase. Fragrance-free formula minimizes irritation risk.
Primary target use case. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, clinically proven to reduce acne up to 87% in 12 weeks.
Results timeline
MONTH 4+Adjustment Phase
Skin begins adapting to the retinoid. Mild dryness, flaking, or redness may occur. Some users notice no change yet.
Normal adaptation periodPurging Phase
Acne may temporarily worsen as adapalene brings existing microcomedones to the surface. This is a sign the product is working.
40-50% experience purgingVisible Improvement
Purging subsides. Fewer new breakouts appear. Skin texture starts to smooth. Post-acne marks begin to fade.
60% notice improvementSignificant Results
Substantial reduction in acne lesions. Pores appear smaller. Skin tone more even. Anti-aging benefits become apparent.
Up to 87% acne reductionMaintenance & Long-Term Benefits
Continue daily use to maintain results and prevent new breakouts. Continued improvement in texture, scars, and fine lines.
Ongoing improvement with consistent useRatings by platform
50K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Prescription-strength retinoid available OTC
- Clinically proven up to 87% acne reduction
- More stable and less irritating than tretinoin
- Clears and prevents acne, blackheads, whiteheads
- Anti-aging benefits (fine lines, texture, tone)
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Non-comedogenic and oil-free
- Works on hormonal and cystic acne
- Reduces risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation
Criticized
- Takes 8-12 weeks to see significant results
- Initial purging can be discouraging
- Causes dryness, peeling, and irritation initially
- Increases sun sensitivity (daily SPF required)
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Cannot be used with certain other actives
- Some people never get past the purging phase
- May worsen very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The original OTC adapalene brand by Galderma. Identical active ingredient and concentration. Widely available at drugstores. Gold standard for adapalene gels.
Same 0.1% adapalene formula from a dermatologist-trusted French pharmacy brand. Identical efficacy with slightly different inactive ingredients. Available at Ulta, Target, CVS.
Store-brand alternative with same active ingredient at a lower price point. Slightly different vehicle but same efficacy. Great budget option for long-term use.
Different retinoid (retinol vs adapalene) with lower potency. Better for anti-aging than acne. Gentler but requires conversion in skin. Not FA-safe due to squalane.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check expiration date on tube crimp.
Store at room temperature (68-77°F / 20-25°C). Protect from freezing. Keep away from heat and direct sunlight.
Aluminum tube with screw cap. Replace cap tightly after each use to prevent oxidation.
Yes, 10g and 15g sizes are under 100ml TSA limit. Stable formula suitable for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo, adapalene is not recommended during pregnancy. It is a retinoid, and while topical absorption is minimal, oral retinoids are known to cause birth defects. The FDA recommends avoiding adapalene during pregnancy unless the potential benefit clearly outweighs the risk. For breastfeeding, use with caution - if used, apply only to areas away from the chest and ensure baby's skin does not contact treated areas. Consult your healthcare provider before use if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Yes, this product is fungal acne safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. The adapalene active ingredient can actually help by regulating cell turnover and preventing the clogged pores where fungal acne thrives. It's one of the few retinoid options safe for those with pityrosporum folliculitis.
Be cautious when combining with other active ingredients. Avoid using with other retinoids (retinol, tretinoin) as this causes excessive irritation. AHAs/BHAs can be used but not on the same night - alternate days or use one AM and adapalene PM. Vitamin C can be used in the morning while adapalene is used at night. Benzoyl peroxide can be safely combined (as in Epiduo) but may increase dryness. Avoid products with alcohol, strong astringents, or other potentially irritating ingredients. Start slowly and introduce one active at a time.
Adapalene works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The oil-free gel formula is lightweight and non-comedogenic. Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it but should start slowly (2-3x per week), use the buffering method (apply over moisturizer), and ensure adequate hydration. It's FDA approved for ages 12 and up with mild to moderate acne. Not ideal for those with very sensitive skin, active rosacea, or compromised skin barrier without careful introduction.
Clinical studies show it takes 8-12 weeks of consistent daily use to see significant results, with up to 87% reduction in acne lesions by week 12. During weeks 2-4, you may experience "purging" where acne temporarily worsens as the product brings existing microcomedones to the surface. This is normal and not a reason to stop. Some users see initial improvement as early as week 1, but meaningful results require patience. Results continue to improve beyond 12 weeks with ongoing use. Anti-aging benefits (fine lines, texture) may take 3-6 months to become noticeable.
Apply adapalene in your PM routine only: (1) Cleanse with a gentle, non-medicated cleanser, (2) Wait 20-30 minutes for skin to fully dry, (3) Apply pea-sized amount of adapalene to entire face, (4) Wait 5-10 minutes, (5) Apply moisturizer. For sensitive skin, you can "buffer" by applying moisturizer first, waiting 5-10 minutes, then applying adapalene. In the morning, always use SPF 30+ sunscreen as adapalene increases sun sensitivity. Avoid using with other retinoids or potentially irritating actives on the same night.
No, adapalene gel is non-comedogenic with a rating of 0/5. The oil-free, water-based gel formula is specifically designed not to clog pores. In fact, adapalene works by preventing comedone formation - it normalizes cell turnover to keep pores clear and prevent the buildup that leads to blackheads and whiteheads. If you experience new breakouts in the first weeks, this is likely purging (existing clogged pores coming to the surface), not comedogenic reaction.
Adapalene gel should be used within 12 months after opening (PAO: 12M). Unopened, the product has a shelf life of approximately 36 months (3 years) when stored properly. Always check the expiration date printed on the tube crimp. Store at room temperature (68-77°F), away from heat and direct sunlight, and protect from freezing. Replace the cap tightly after each use to prevent oxidation. If the product changes color, texture, or develops an unusual odor, discontinue use.
Verdict: Evalen Adapalene Gel 0.1% delivers prescription-strength acne treatment without a prescription. As a third-generation retinoid, it offers comparable efficacy to tretinoin with significantly better tolerability. The fungal acne-safe, non-comedogenic formula makes it suitable for most acne-prone skin types. However, results require patience (8-12 weeks) and the initial purging phase can be discouraging. Essential companion: daily sunscreen. Not suitable for pregnancy. For those willing to commit to consistent use, this is one of the most effective OTC acne treatments available with added anti-aging benefits.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Adapalene
|
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|