What is Adapalene? Uses, warnings & side effects

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed. 

Apply adapalene doses only once daily.

Adapalene can be applied in the morning or at bedtime.

• Sunlight can degrade adapalene and make it less effective, so it’s ideal to apply doses at nighttime. 

• Some prescription products instruct that doses be applied before bedtime.

Do not apply adapalene near the eyes, lips, or mucus membranes.

Do not apply adapalene to dry, red, itchy skin or skin with cuts, scrapes, or sunburn.

Before applying a dose, wash the affected skin with a soapless cleanser and pat dry.

Apply a thin layer of the medicine to the entire affected area. 

When using adapalene swabs, do not remove them from the foil until ready to use. Throw away the swabs immediately after use.

An oil-free moisturizer or oil-free sunscreen can be applied over adapalene to decrease skin irritation or protect the skin from sunburn.

Adapalene products should be stored in a tightly closed container at room temperature. They should not be refrigerated or frozen. The medicine should be kept away from light and heat.

If a dose is missed, apply that dose if it’s the same day.

If it’s the next day, skip the missed dose and apply that day’s dose as scheduled.

Do not apply two doses at the same time or on the same day.

Do not use this medication if you have had an allergic reaction to adapalene.

Before using prescription or over-the-counter adapalene, get medical advice from a doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or have:

• Other skin problems including cuts, dry skin, eczema, or abrasions

• Sensitivity to sunlight

Adapalene may cause problems such as:

• Dry skin

• Eczema

• Skin reactions

• Severe allergic reactions

Acne may worsen when first using adapalene. Keep using the medicine.

Adapalene can cause skin irritation in the first few weeks of treatment. Keep using the medicine, and the irritation should improve. To prevent skin irritation, an oil-free moisturizer can be applied over adapalene.

This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, wind, and cold weather. Use an oil-free sunscreen when you are outdoors and wear protective clothing such as a hat. Avoid sunlamps or tanning beds.

Avoid skin care products that irritate or dry out the skin, such as harsh soaps, cleansers, astringents, or certain types of cosmetics.

Do not use “waxing” to remove hair on skin treated with adapalene.

Avoid using adapalene with certain types of topical medications or products, including:

• Light-activated drugs used with photodynamic therapy called photosensitizers

• Salicylic acid

• Topical products that contain astringents, alcohol, spices, or lime

Adapalene can be used with benzoyl peroxide.