Adapalene: Comedogenic Rating & Safety Profile
Also known as: Differin
A third-generation retinoid available over the counter (in the US, UK and EU) at 0.1%. Targets acne with less irritation than tretinoin.
Quick facts about Adapalene
Safe
0 = won't clog pores · 5 = highly pore-clogging
Moderate Risk
0 = inert · 5 = often irritating
Acids
Generally considered safe
Typically yes
Differin
Quick verdict
Adapalene is a acid with a safe comedogenic profile (0/5) and moderate risk irritancy (3/5). A third-generation retinoid available over the counter (in the US, UK and EU) at 0.1%. Targets acne with less irritation than tretinoin.
What is Adapalene?
Adapalene is a third-generation synthetic retinoid available over the counter at 0.1% in the US, UK and EU (branded as Differin or Epiduo Plus when combined with benzoyl peroxide). Unlike retinol, adapalene does not need to be converted by the skin — it binds directly to retinoid receptors. It is more photostable than retinol and tretinoin and is generally better tolerated than tretinoin.
Comedogenic Rating: What 0/5 Means for Your Skin
Adapalene is rated 0/5 comedogenic. Like other retinoids, early use can cause 'purging' — a temporary surge of breakouts as previously hidden microcomedones surface. This typically settles within 6–8 weeks of consistent use.
Benefits for skin
- More photostable than retinol or tretinoin
- Anti-inflammatory action on acne
- Tolerated better than tretinoin
- Available OTC
Potential side effects & who should avoid it
Adapalene has a 3/5 irritancy rating. Common side effects include dryness, peeling, redness and stinging during the first 4–8 weeks of use ('retinisation'). Adapalene is not safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding — switch to azelaic acid during this period. Avoid layering with strong AHAs/BHAs on the same evening for the first 8 weeks.
Best for
- Acne-prone
- Oily
- Combination
Avoid if
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Active eczema
How to use Adapalene safely
Pea-sized amount on dry skin every other night for the first 4 weeks, building to nightly. Sandwich between two layers of moisturiser to reduce irritation. Daily SPF 30+ is mandatory.
Commonly found in
Adapalene is in over-the-counter acne gels (0.1%) and prescription combination products with benzoyl peroxide (0.3% adapalene + 2.5% BPO).
Found Adapalene in your skincare?
Paste the full ingredient list into our INCI Analyser to see how this ingredient interacts with everything else in the formula.
Frequently asked questions
Other acids to know
Retinol
A Vitamin A derivative that accelerates cell turnover, boosts collagen and is the gold-standard ingredient for reducing wrinkles and acne.
Salicylic Acid
An oil-soluble exfoliant that penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin and the plugs that cause blackheads and acne.
Glycolic Acid
The smallest AHA molecule, derived from sugarcane. It exfoliates the surface of the skin to reveal smoother, brighter, more even-toned skin.
Benzoyl Peroxide
An over-the-counter antibacterial that kills C. acnes bacteria and reduces inflammation. Often the first-line treatment for inflammatory acne.
Want the full picture on pore-clogging ingredients? Read our complete guide to comedogenic ingredients for the dermatology research behind the 0–5 scale and the full list of high-risk ingredients to avoid.
Written by ScanSkinAI Team · Last updated May 2026
This information is for educational purposes only. Always patch-test new products and consult a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns.