Authority source
Safety basis: FDA
FDA
Adapalene
Differin
Retinoid
Adapalene is a type of vitamin A derivative used in skincare products. It helps to unclog pores and reduce acne by preventing dead skin cells from clogging pores.
What it is
Adapalene is a synthetic retinoid, a derivative of vitamin A, used to treat acne and other skin conditions.
Found in
acne treatments, spot treatments, moisturizers
The concern
No significant concerns identified
Legal status
Approved by FDA for topical use in acne treatments, available over-the-counter and by prescription.
Low Concern
Generally considered safe for topical use in skincare products.
Evidence & sources
Article / explainer
Article / explainer
No highly relevant article explainer found yet.
Video explainer
Adapalene Gel Review | Adapalene Gel 0.1 | How to Use Adapalene Gel 0.1? | Dr. Nivedita Dadu
Video
Dadu Medical Centre
Watch videoCommunity questions
Community questions
Community discussions are not used as safety evidence and no highly relevant discussion is shown for this ingredient.
Related ingredient guides
Compare this ingredient with related ingredients and common alternatives.
Retinol
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Retinal
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Retinyl Palmitate
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Tretinoin
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Bakuchiol
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Niacinamide
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Last updated: June 9, 2026