Topical Retinoid
Reviews
3.2
1910 Reviews
Topical Retinoid
Efficacy
54%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Note: Prescription and over-the-counter adapalene share the same efficacy percentage due to non-specific research, but prescription strength likely performs better.
Topical Retinoid
Side Effects
Low
Topical Retinoid
Acne.org’s Real World Take
This topical retinoid medication provides partial relief at higher prescription dosages, but don’t look for complete clearing, especially at over-the-counter strength. Relatively affordable and comes with less side effects than tretinoin, the other affordable topical retinoid. As a bonus, it improves the look of skin and reduces fine lines and wrinkles a bit too.
Topical Retinoid
How to Get It
This is an over-the-counter treatment. Here are some places you can find it online.
Read All About Adapalene (Non-prescription)
Compare To Other Treatments
5
17.5%
4
30.4%
3
22.6%
2
17.1%
1
12.4%

Used Adapalene (Non-prescription)? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
September 25, 2008

Pros:

Goes on lightly, and you can't really tell if it's there. No smell.

Cons:

Very expensive, and no early improvements.

Bottom line, I am so far VERY displeased with this product. My acne is worse than it's ever been. I have very sensitive skin, and with the constant breakout acne, I have a feeling I will be scarred for a while. My chin area is horribly irritated. My derm said it'd push everything out of my skin-- why would she recommend a product that would make me break out more when my skin is so infection-prone? I really dislike this product, but I will give it another 2 months in hopes of some improvement. Nothing else has worked thusfar, so I'm praying for a miricle. For the price alone, I would not recommend it. My insurance IS covering it, and it's still costing me about $75 a month.
September 24, 2008

Pros:

it is very effective!!!

Cons:

my skin became dry.. it became a little flaky. so I put on my moisturizer

I love it! I've been using it for few days. I have a very stressful life and yet my skin still looks good. i have no breakouts lately
September 21, 2008

Pros:

acne should decrease soon.. i hope

Cons:

acne is increeassssinggg!! by alot!!! for me.
my skin is really red and dry. use moistrilizer.

ummmmmmmmmmm i think at first the its really bad, but it should get better.
September 5, 2008
Alas it didn't do anything for me at all, but that doesn't mean it could'nt work for you. Anything is worth trying.
September 5, 2008

Pros:

Clearing up face quickly. Using with Sulfacetamide lotion and Monodox pills.

Cons:

Drying out face. Put around eyes accidentaly and hurt for a few days. Sunburnt on drive home from work.

If you need it, get it. My dermatologist gave me coupons to make it free for first three refills and gave me lots of samples. Ask for these, doctors have them.
September 3, 2008

Pros:

makes my skin feel smooth, clears up most parts so far.

Cons:

makes my skin itchy. apparently your skin has to get work before it gets better.

ive only been using it for a few weeks now so im going to see how it progresses. my skin hasnt been that dry but everyone elses seems to be. i hope it doesnt get worse.
September 1, 2008

Pros:

It worked on my skin, and I actually got compliments on it (which NEVER happens.) I would liken it to a very light chemical peel. It helps with pimples and blackheads.

Cons:

If you put too much on, it will burn/irritate your skin and make it very red. It is expensive though and I could only get it through a prescription (so you have to pay a dermatology fee as well, which, for a college student, is hard to afford.)

If you have the money to invest in it, and follow the directions, go for it.
September 1, 2008

Pros:

it can really clear your face as other medcine may give negative effect

Cons:

You will feel your skin dry at the beginning, but it will becomes better after a few weeks you have used.
It may costs you a lot but it really benefits to you in contrast.

I used this product as I have the treatment from my doctor. He recomended me to use this product for 3 month. It really gives my skin dry at the beginning, but my condition becomes better after a few weeks. It finally clear my face with no ANCE and BLACKHEADS.
August 26, 2008

Pros:

It has cleared my skin,

Cons:

Acne got worst on the first 3 weeks. My skin is very dry and is peeling off..also my sensibility has increased a lot.

I think it works, but you have to know that you'll have to keep the treatment for at least 2 months to see any result...i guess it all depends on your skin.....
July 28, 2008

Pros:

make skin smooth

Cons:

Brings out all the hidden acne to the surface. I have been on differin for 8 weeks and it has brought out acne that I never had on my forehead and cheeks and chin. I must say after 8 weeks the right side of my face is clear. Just waiting for the rest

Hang in there. It does get worse before it gets better. Just think the extra bumps are temporary and clear smooth skin is about to emerge.

Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.