Adapalene / Benzoyl peroxide work through the following mechanisms:
Anti-inflammatory activity
Adapalene reduces inflammation in the skin.
Anti-keratinization activity
Adapalene and benzoyl peroxide both reduce the production of keratin (a sticky skin protein), which helps skin cells shed from the skin. This helps clear and prevent clogged pores.
Antibacterial activity
Benzoyl peroxide kills acne bacteria (C. acnes).