Adapalene for Acne – Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & Price

Adapalene is a widely used topical retinoid known for its effectiveness in treating acne. By unclogging pores and reducing inflammation, it encourages quicker skin-cell turnover. Dermatologists often recommend adapalene for mild to moderate acne because it helps reduce pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. With regular use, it not only clears active acne but also helps prevent future breakouts. In this blog, we’ll explore how adapalene works, safe usage tips, and much more.

What Does Adapalene Do?

Adapalene targets acne at its root by:

• Unclogging pores: Prevents buildup of dead skin cells and sebum.
• Reducing inflammation: Calms redness and swelling associated with pimples.
• Regulating skin renewal: Speeds up shedding of old cells and growth of new cells.

This combined action helps reduce breakouts and prevents the formation of new acne lesions.

Using Adapalene Along with Other Compounds

Adapalene + Clindamycin - A dual-action topical gel featuring adapalene (a retinoid) and clindamycin (an antibiotic) clears acne by unclogging pores, reducing bacteria, calming inflammation, and promoting smoother, clearer skin.

Adapalene with Nadifloxacin - It combines pore-clearing and anti-inflammatory action with strong antibacterial effects, reducing pimples, blackheads, and breakouts while promoting smoother, healthier, clearer skin.

For more details, read - Nadifloxacin for Acne.

Topical Solutions For Acne

Benefits of Using Adapalene for Acne

• Effective in treating blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed pimples.
• Prevents future breakouts when used consistently.
• Improves skin texture and reduces post-acne marks over time.
• Suitable for long-term acne management.

Safe Ways to Use Adapalene

• Spread a thin coat daily, ideally before bedtime.
• Cleanse your face with a mild, non-irritating cleanser before application.
• Use only on affected areas or as advised by a dermatologist.
• Always apply sunscreen during the day, as adapalene increases sun sensitivity. Read: Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin.

Best Adapalene Containing Gels for Acne

Nadizee A Gel (15 gm) – ₹105

Nadizee A Gel

A topical gel combining an antibiotic (nadifloxacin) and retinoid (adapalene), ideal for individuals with mild to moderate acne. It combats acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, unclogs pores, and promotes clearer, healthier-looking skin in a targeted, dual-action treatment.

Composition: Nadifloxacin 10 mg + Adapalene 1 mg

• Combats acne-causing bacteria with antibiotic action
• Reduces pimples, redness, and skin inflammation
• Unclogs pores and promotes skin renewal
• Dual-action treatment for mild to moderate acne
• Helps achieve clearer and healthier-looking skin

Clearbet Plus Anti Acne Gel (15 gm) – ₹75

Clearbet Plus Anti Acne Gel

This gel is specially formulated with adapalene and clindamycin for individuals experiencing mild to moderate acne. It helps clear pimples, reduces redness, prevents clogged pores, and supports healthier skin, giving you a smoother and clearer appearance.

Composition: Adapalene 0.1% + Clindamycin 1%

• Treats mild to moderate acne and pimples
• Controls bacterial growth to prevent infection
• Reduces redness and skin irritation
• Prevents formation of new acne breakouts
• Supports smoother and clearer skin appearance

Acnerem Anti Acne Gel (20 gm) – ₹30

Acnerem Anti Acne Gel

This adapalene-based topical gel is perfect for those dealing with mild to severe acne. It reduces excess oil, unclogs pores, clears blackheads and whiteheads, and calms inflammation, helping your skin look smoother, clearer, and healthier.

Composition: Adapalene Microspheres Gel 0.1%

• Effective for mild to severe acne treatment
• Reduces excess oil and prevents pore blockage
• Clears blackheads and whiteheads
• Calms skin inflammation and irritation
• Promotes smoother, clearer, and healthier skin

Who Should Use Adapalene?

• People with mild to moderate acne (blackheads, whiteheads, papules, and pustules).
• Those who experience frequent breakouts despite a basic skincare routine.
• Individuals seeking a long-term acne prevention solution.
• It may not be suitable for people with very sensitive skin, eczema, or during pregnancy without medical guidance.

Possible Side Effects of Adapalene

Like other retinoids, adapalene may cause temporary irritation, including:

• Dryness and peeling.
• Mild redness or burning sensation.
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight.

These side effects are generally mild and lessen as your skin adapts. If irritation persists, consult a dermatologist.

Tips to Maximize Results with Adapalene

• Be consistent—results often appear after 8–12 weeks.
• Start with alternate-night application if irritation occurs.
• Pair with a gentle moisturizer to minimize dryness.
• Avoid harsh scrubs or strong exfoliants while using adapalene.
• Protect your skin with SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.

Conclusion

Dermatologists recommend adapalene for acne because it clears pores, reduces inflammation, and supports healthy skin turnover. With consistent use, it promotes clearer, healthier skin while preventing future breakouts. For best results, follow a dermatologist's guidance and use the best sunscreen available (see Best Sunscreen for Women).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Is Adapalene effective for acne treatment?
A. Yes. Adapalene is highly effective for mild to moderate acne. It unclogs pores, reduces inflammation, and regulates skin turnover, helping clear pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads while preventing future breakouts.

Q. How long does Adapalene take to work on acne?
A. Adapalene usually shows noticeable improvement within 8 to 12 weeks. Consistent use is important, as results take time. Long-term benefits include reduced acne, clearer skin, and fewer breakouts.

Q. Can I use clindamycin and adapalene together?
A. Yes. Clindamycin and adapalene can be used together. This combination unclogs pores, kills acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, and prevents breakouts, promoting clearer and healthier skin.

Q. Who should avoid using Adapalene?
A. People with extremely sensitive skin, eczema, or allergies to retinoids should avoid adapalene. It is also not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical supervision from a dermatologist.

Q. Can adapalene remove tiny bumps?
A. Yes. Adapalene helps reduce tiny bumps by unclogging pores, controlling oil, and improving skin-cell turnover, resulting in smoother, clearer, healthier-looking skin over time.

Q. Is it safe to use adapalene long-term?
A. Yes. Adapalene is generally safe for long-term use under a dermatologist's guidance. Consistent application helps prevent acne, maintain clearer skin, and improve texture, though sunscreen and moisturization are essential.