Adapalene is a class of retinoid used in the treatment of mild acne. It is a combination of chemicals made into a cream form to help treat skin bacteria and visible acne. Adapalene is also used to treat kelarosis pilaris and other skin problems. It is a mild treatment compared to the two other retinoid; tretinoid and tazarotene.
It has a physical effect on the skin in a way that after a few weeks of constant application, the skin becomes a lot more tender and smooth. Adapalene reacts positively when combined with other chemicals like benzoyl peroxide. It is sold under different trade names such as Differin, Pimpal, Gallet, Adelene and Adeferin.
It is a topical retinoid. Different companies have different names for it. It is one of the most popularly recommended acne creams for patients. It is usually applied to the skin in small quantities and can be applied at least twice daily.
Night application gives a better effect. Combining it with another retinoid would also produce a better effect. It is a licensed and approved medication for acne and some skin issues. Adapalene can be used as a consecutive maintenance treatment.
Pros
- It has a mild effect on the skin.
- The results are visible within two to three weeks.
- It can work independently or with other chemicals.
Cons
- There could be itching, dryness of skin and inflammation of the skin.
It is available under different trade names in pharmaceutical stores.
Here, we will discuss all the Adapalene alternatives you can use if you are not satisfied with the product. We are exploring a range of moisturizers, creams and lotions that can be used to cure acne as a time treatment or a maintenance medication. Before you use any of these products, it is best to seek consultation from a dermatologist to know what would fit your skin before use to avoid harsh reactions.
Best Adapalene Alternatives
1. Aveeno clear complexion
Aveeno clear complexion is one of the best Adapalene alternatives and a product of the Aveeno brand. It is a clear moisturizer used for the treatment of acne, rough skin and blemishes. It is a daily moisturizing cream used to prevent breakouts and uneven skin. This product is made with a blend of natural and artificial ingredients.
Some of them include salicylic acid and soy complex. It is made under healthy production compliance and meets the standard of the World Health Organisation. This cream helps to even out the skin and keeps it safe from burns and blemishes. It is also used to even the skin tone and texture. It is not only for acne faces. It can be used as a regular cream to prevent the skin from getting acne and changing colour due to stress, diet, hormones or the weather.
The cream creates a smooth texture on the skin. It is an oil-free cream. It is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. It can be used by both dry and oily skins. The tip of the fingers can be used to apply. The cream should be used externally only.
Pros
- It has a great scent that makes it pleasing to apply.
- It contains soy extract, which is a rich ingredient for repairing skin cells.
Cons
- Constant application may cause irritations and itching after a while.
- It is not to be applied to open acne wounds.
Buy the product from their official website here.
2. Azelex topical
Azelex topical is an Adapalene alternative, also known as Azelaic Acid, and it belongs to a group of drugs known as dicarboxylic acids. It is used to treat moderate acne and pimples. It helps to keep the skin alive and healthy by reducing the number of bacteria in it and opening the pores.
Just like Differin and another retinoid, this cream contains chemicals that fight bacteria, especially bacteria that have caused the skin some sort of inflammation and redness. It keeps the skin’s pores open and unblocked such that no germ can hide in there to cause pimples.
Azelex comes in different forms, such as creams, moisturizers or foam but most commonly as creams. It is easy to use.
The application can be made twice or three times daily but at night for the best results. The skin surface should be washed clean and clear of any germs before application. The tip of the fingers can be used, but they must also be washed before they are used to apply the cream.
This Adapalene alternative has different brand names, but after professional dermatology counselling, a good brand can be chosen.
Pro
- It is mild on the skin.
- It is available in nearby stores.
Cons
- Skin tingling, burning and itching.
Available in online and physical pharmacies.
3. Clindagel
Clindagel is another alternative that can be used in place of Adapalene. It is a gel-form acne treatment medication comprising of clindamycin phosphate gel and topical gel. This cream is only for skin application as it contains chemicals that react to skin changes.
This clindagel is an individual product that can function on its own or with other products. It is made from both natural and artificial chemicals. It is designed to rid the skin of acne problems and prevent it from having dark spots and blackheads.
With Clindagel, the skin is assured of an even surface because it works in such a way that it goes into the pores to unblock them.
It opens the pores up for air and natural breathing. It is basically used to treat inflammatory and comedonal acne. Whether the acne is a type that causes the skin to swell or the stagnant ones that change the skin colour in no time, clindagel’s reformative performance rids the skin off it. It can be used on both adults and children.
Pros
- It can be used on all age grades.
- It produces quick results.
Cons
- Can cause itching, swelling and burning.
Buy from the official website here.
4. Differin daily deep cleanser
Differin daily deep cleanser is among the Adapalene alternatives and a product of the Galderma company, a pharmaceutical company that has produced a couple of great medications.
It is an acne-deep cleansing cream that is used to treat and prevent mild and serious acne. This cream comes in a cleanser form, which allows the user to blend it into the skin and wash it off afterwards if desired. It is a rich cleansing liquid that helps to fight the skin bacteria and prevent them from causing more harm. It also dries off existing acne and clears black heads and spots.
Differin daily deep cleanser comprises a couple of ingredients that are a blend of natural and artificial. These ingredients include water, benzoyl peroxide, carbomer, glycerin, lauryl methacrylate/ glycol dimethacrylate crosspolymer, sodium olefin sulphonate and sodium hydroxide. These ingredients are contained in the right percentage. Adapalene alternative cleanser penetrates into the skin, opens the pores and extracts oils.
Pros
- It is a cleanser, so it can be used to clean the face at any time.
- It extracts oil from the depths of the pores.
Cons
- Excessive use can cause inflammation of the skin.
- There could be reactions depending on the skin type.
Click here to buy.
5. Duobrii
Duobrii lotion is another Adapalene alternative that can be used. It is suitable for most adults as it is not tested to know if it is healthy for children. It is made in a cream form and can be applied to the external part of the skin only. Duobrii is a combination of a number of chemicals that are highly effective in curing acne and plaque psoriasis in adults.
The ingredients in it include halebetasol propionate and tazarotene. Duobrii is strictly for external use only, and this is limited to the fleshy skin, not the eyes, nose, lips or vagina. It is to be used only on the parts of the skin that is affected with acne or plaque psoriasis.
It works in such a way that it sinks deep into the skin to rid it of old dead cells, germs or bacteria that may be blocking the pores and causing problems. As such, it can be applied at least twice daily so that it works faster.
The brand advises that intending users should see a dermatologist before use to ascertain that there are no worse skin conditions that can slow down the effect.
Pros
- It is a topical medicine.
- There is always a consultation before it is administered.
Cons
- Some reactions like redness of the skin, irritation, swelling and slight pains may occur.
Click here to read more about it.
6. Epiduo Forte
The next on this list of best Adapalene alternatives is Epiduo Forte. It is another topical cream from the Galderma pharmaceuticals. It is a type of Adapalene retinoid made in a cream/gel form.
This medication is a strong one created to fight hard acne from its deepest roots of it. It sinks down into the pores of the skin and restricts it from inflammation, which is the real cause of acne. Epiduo forte is designed to cure and prevent acne. Constant use of it would create a balance for the skin and become a maintenance treatment for it. The skin is exposed to certain chemicals in Epiduo Forte that would actively help in drying up the acne.
The two main ingredients in this cream are Adapalene and benzoyl peroxide. They work together to unclog all blocked pores in the skin and clear the surface so that it does not get inflamed and cause pimples.
This cream is one of the tested and approved treatments for strong acne because it has worked on different types of skins. It has a net weight of 45g.
Pros
- It can function independently.
- Breakout results are visible in no time.
Cons
- There might be reactions of itching, skin dryness and swelling depending on the skin type.
Learn more about the product here.
7. Evoclin
Evoclin is another alternative to Adapalene. It is a clindamycin phosphate medication. It can be used in place of Adapalene because it contains the same form of chemicals that help to fight stubborn acne.
It is an antibacterial and antibiotic cream used to treat severe acne or skin inflammation. This product can be found in other brand names but must contain clindamycin to perform the same function.
Evoclin is used only on the outer part of the skin and must not come in contact with the nose, eyes or mouth. It is a topical skin treatment for pimples, and it’s like. This product can help to dry up hard acne, clear out acne skin, prevent inflammation and reduce large pore holes.
It works in such a way that it clears out bacteria and germs from the pores and allows it to breathe so that it does not get inflamed again. The cream can be used constantly, twice a day, to prevent acne from reoccurring. It is an antibiotic cream, so it fights bacteria excellently.
Pros
- Available in two different sizes.
- Smooth texture on the skin.
Cons
- Can cause reactions.
- May not be suitable for all skin types.
Available for sale in physical and online pharmacies.
8. Fabior
The next one on our Adapalene alternatives list is Fabior. Fabior comes in foam form. It has a high content of tazarotene in it. It is made solely for the treatment of acne and the skin problems related to it. It can be used for those who are from twelve years and above.
This foam is made in a way that it is used to rub or dab the surface of the acne so it can penetrate it. It is a retinoid that helps to fight the skin bacteria that cause acne. Fabior helps to kill the germs and bacteria that have caused the inflammation of the skin, swollen surface, redness and pain. It sinks into the pores to extract the cause of the inflammation and reduce its effect on the skin.
It is an antibacterial treatment that can fight skin bacteria without stress. This foam also helps to keep the skin smooth and flawless because once the pore bacteria has been killed, the outer skin is renewed. It also makes the skin tender and less prone to skin issues. Fabior is a healthy skin foam that is easy to apply.
Pros
- It has a great scent.
- It has a good feeling on the skin.
Cons
- Ice effects include dry skin, red skin or peeling.
Click here to learn more about it.
9. Finacea
The next option is Finacea. It can be used as Adapalene alternative product. It is also for the treatment of acne and acne related skin problems. Its main content is Azelaic acid, which is a strong chemical that helps to fight bacteria and germs. It is used to treat rosacea in adults.
It is a prescribed medication used to treat inflammatory papules and pustules of mild rosacea. The product is made in a foam form and it can sink into the skin for killing the bacteria that cause acne. Finacea is a well-known acne medication made by the Leo Pharma Inc.
It is a trusted treatment for hard acne or pimples. It works in such a way that it clears out the source of the acne from the rots, giving the skin a clear definition and a rosy look. Finacea has been used on mostly adults, but it has not been tested on children. It is one of the Azelaic acid creams that is usually recommended for acne skins. Its effects are usually visible after a few days or weeks, depending on the patient’s skin. It comes in a white container with a white cap.
Pros
- It comes in a foam form, so it is easy to use.
- It has a therapeutic feeling on the skin.
Cons
- There could be reactions like itching, pain and redness.
Click here to learn more.
10. MetroCream
MetroCream is another alternative that can be used in place of Adapalene. It contains metronidazole, which is a part of the imidazole family. It is an antibacterial chemical that fights bacteria from the skin.
It helps to kill hidden bacteria within the skin cells and expel them from the skin. Metronidazole is an active ingredient used in making this MetroCream. MetroCream is a topical treatment for acne, pimples and rosacea. It contains ingredients like benzyl alcohol, emulsifying wax, glycerin, isopropyl palmitate, purified water, sorbitol solution, lactic acid and sodium hydroxide.
These ingredients in it work hand in hand to destroy the skin bacteria that is causing the acne. This cream is a mild one. It eases into the skin in a mild way, without any heat or itching. It is an antiprotozoal and an antibacterial cream.
It is easy to use. The skin must be washed and cleaned with a clean cloth. Then with the tip of the fingers, the application can be made. The cream weighs about 7.5g.
Pros
- The cream is mild and gentle on the skin.
- It has calm ingredients that don’t cause severe reactions.
Cons
- Depending on the skin type, there might be reactions at first instance.
It is available in physical stores and pharmacies.
11. Metro gel
Metro gel is the gel version of Metrocream. It is available under different brand names. It is also used to treat Rosacea which can be referred to as adult acne. It is also used to treat raises, pimples and inflammation on the skin.
Just like Metrocream, metro gel contains metronidazole. It is an antibacterial gel that is applied constantly to the affected area to reduce swelling, redness, itching and pain. It works by killing the bacteria in the affected area and preventing others from springing up. It is used all around the face to protect the face from inflammation and reduce the inflamed parts. Inflammation is the core cause of acne, and the fastest way to stop or prevent it is by getting to the root.
This gel performs the task of digging into the skin and killing the bacteria that is the cause of the inflammation. It should not come in contact with the eyes, nose or mouth.
This product contains metronidazole and topical gel. It is a colorless gel that contains carbomer 940, edatate disodium, purified water, propylparaben, sodium hydroxide and propylene glycol.
Pros
- The gel is mild on the skin.
- It shows results in a few weeks.
Cons
- There might be itching and redness of the skin depending on the individual’s skin.
It is available in pharmaceutical stores.
12. Metro lotion
Metro lotion is the lotion version of Metro gel and Metro cream. It also Adapalene alternatives that contain a high content of metronidazole. Metro lotion is different from Metrocream because it is lighter in texture compared to it.
It does not cause as much heat as Metrocream would cause, and it suits many types of skins. Whether your skin is oily, dry or in between, the lotion would work because it dries quickly on the skin and blends into the pores very quickly.
It also works faster in terms of functionality because it has the capacity to penetrate the skin faster. Metro lotion works like Metro gel and MetroCream. It is used to cure and prevent acne, rosacea and skin rates caused by bacteria in the skin pores.
This Adapalene alternative goes into the skin to kill the bacteria that is causing the inflammation on the top part of the skin. It is a topical lotion but it goes beyond the skin’s surface. The functions are deeper than the surface level. Metro lotion is recommended for adults. The effect on children has not been tested.
Pros
- It is lighter than the other forms of metronidazole.
- Less itching and faster action.
Cons
- Reactions can still occur in some people due to their skin type.
It is also available in pharmacies.
13. Noritate
The next on our list of Adapalene alternatives is Noritate. It can also be used as an alternative for Adapalene. It has the same content as all the metro products, which is metronidazole.
Metronidazole is an antibacterial chemical that helps to fight bacteria from the skin cells and guard against getting infected again. The skin is prone to bacteria due to dust and other external chemicals from soaps and cream. These could cause inflammation of the skin, which leads to acne or rosacea.
Noritate is a mild cream that is known to treat rosacea and inflammation. It comes in a tube form and can be pressed out gently. It is a light cream-colored substance. It can be applied daily to the affected area or the entire face to avoid more spots appearing.
It also helps to clear dark spots and clear the skin of any bacteria at all. It is available in a 60g tube. The cream is mild, and it has a great scent.
Pros
- Suitable for all types of skin.
- Mild on the flesh
Cons
- There can be side effects sometimes.
It is available in pharmaceutical stores.
14. Onexton
The next one on this Adapalene alternatives list is Onexton. It is a product of Ortho Dermatologists, a pharmaceutical company in California. It is a topical gel used to treat harsh and mild acne.
This product was made for patients with acne of all types, especially the ones that came with redness and swelling of the affected area. It is a calming type of gel that, once it is applied, soothes the flaming area immediately.
This gel is made from natural and artificial ingredients, which include some healthy chemicals for the skin. These chemicals help in fighting the bacteria that the skin harbors. It kills the bacteria that cause the skin to swell or become inflamed.
This product contains clindamycin phosphate and benzoyl peroxide. It is mainly used to treat acne vulgaris.
It is for use on people who are twelve years and above. It should not be used on those who have allergic reactions to benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin phosphate.
Pros
- It has a soft feeling on the skin.
- The results are usually visible in a few weeks.
Cons
- It can cause inflammation of the colon, severe itching, swelling and redness.
Click here to buy.
15. Panretin
Panretin is a topical skin gel used to treat acne and some skin reactions that are usually caused by skin bacteria, which could lead to redness and information of the skin. Panretin is classified under retinoid acid.
It is a form of retinoid acid that is antibacterial and antineoplastic in nature. It is used to fight both skin bacteria and skin cancer. It also helps to prevent the skin from having any skin problems that could occur due to dust, dirt or external substances on the skin. Panretin is a soft kind of gel that can be easily applied to the skin.
It is light and easy to use. Its effect can last for up to many hours on the skin. It must be applied constantly to produce great results on the skin. The gel can also be used as a preventive and maintenance treatment against acne and skin cancer.
Pros
- Helps to fight skin cancer.
- Light and breezy on the skin.
Cons
- There might be itching, redness of the skin and swelling.
It is available in online and physical stores.
16. Rosac
The next one this Adapalene alternatives list is Rosac. It is also a treatment for acne and harsh bacterial skin problems. In place of Adapalene or any other one on this list, an acne patient can try it but it must be recommended by a dermatologist. Rosac is used to treat pimples or acne and rosacea just like Adapalene. It contains chemicals that help fight bacteria that cause acne.
The product contains Sulfur and Sulfacetamide with sunscreen cream. It belongs to the class of topical antibiotics because it is an antibiotics cream that is used on the surface of the skin only.
Rosac helps to reduce itching, swelling and clear black heads. When the skin has been affected by the bacteria, and it results in inflammation or acne, the cream can be applied to it to help reduce the pain. With Rosac, users can be guaranteed a therapeutic and physical solution for acne. Its texture is cool to the skin, and it has a good scent.
Pros
- It is soft on the skin.
- It is suitable for all skin types.
Cons.
- It can cause redness of the skin, swelling and pains.
It is available in online and physical stores and pharmacies.
17. Twyneo
Twyneo is a strong cream made with chemicals for fighting acne and breakouts. It is an antibacterial cream used to rid the face of acne and prevent it from subsequent breakouts.
Twyneo contains tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide. It is a 2-in-1 power action cream made for fighting acne. This cream is fortified with chemicals that prevent the skin from damaging but damage the bacteria that is under it. It provides a protective layer from any can or other forms of skin inflammation.
Twyneo is built with a double protection technology to help fight and protect the skin from hateful bacteria. It has a unique technology that helps it to function. The cream is enriched with minerals that are healthy for the skin and serve as antibacterial protection. It is also a medicated cream.
Twyneo has a microencapsulated performance which is fast and effective. It is easy to use. The cream is light in texture. It is a product of the Galderma company, a pharmaceutical that has produced some of the other products on this list.
Pros
- The cream is light and easy to rub in.
- It has a super fast technology that shows results in no time.
Cons
- Cannot be used in the sun or before going into the sun.
Check out how to use it here.
18. Sulfacet R
Sulfacet R is also known as sulfacetamide sulfur. It is a blend of sulfur and sulfacetamide chemicals. It is solely for the treatment of acne, bacterial folliculitis, seborrheic dermatitis and other acne-like conditioner.
Sulfacet R is a cream made to help spread acne on the skin, especially on the face, by killing the bacteria that cause it. It is an antibacterial cream that stands against the germs that cause acne.
The product infiltrates the skin and kills the bacteria, making it harmless against the surface. It destabilizes the bacteria’s power to cause any inflammation Sulfacet R can also be used to treat any skin-related problems like acne, and it functions in the same way by killing the power of the bacteria underneath. This Adapalene alternative cream is mostly for adults.
Its potency has not been tested on children yet, so it is best if the use is restricted to adults. It is used on the skin surface as it is a topical scream. It should not affect the eyes, nose or mouth. It comes in the form of a tube cream.
Pros
- Fights acne and other related problems.
- Mild and soft on the skin.
Cons
- It can cause skin dryness, redness or swelling.
It is available in physical and online stores.
19. Tagretin gel
Tagretin gel is also an alternative to Adapalene. It is a product of the Ortho Dermatologists company. It contains bexarotene. It comes in a gel form, so it is very light and easy to use.
Tagretin performs the same functions as Adapalene. It is used to prevent or treat severe or mild acne. It is a medication that can be prescribed for those suffering from severe acne and inflammation.
It contains natural and artificial chemicals which are healthy for the skin and helps in the treatment of the skin condition. It works more as an antibiotic that delves into the skin to fish out all acne-causing bacteria and hunt them down. It kills the bacteria and makes the skin less prone to bacterial problems.
It can also work as a continuous treatment to fight against upcoming acne. The product is also used to treat mycosis fungoides, which can cause patches or plaques on the skin. The gel is easy to use.
Pros
- Comes in a light gel form.
- Easily accessible.
Cons
- It can cause damage to a fetus. The doctor must be contacted before use.
- Other side effects like itching, skin dryness and swelling may occur too.
Click here to read more about it.
20. Ziana
The last product on our Adapalene alternatives list is Ziana. It is a combination of clindamycin and tretinoin. It is a topical retinoid used to treat severe acne and related problems.
This product is also an antibiotic because it contains antibacterial properties to fight any bacteria that is found in the skin. The bacteria in the skin is usually the cause of acne and inflammation.
Therefore, with the antibacterial property, it can crush the bacteria and stop them from causing damage to the skin surface. Ziana works actively to reduce any acne or acne spots on the skin. Once it kills the bacteria that live within, it works up to the surface, clearing it bit by bit until it clears completely.
The cream empties the skin pores of all the dead cells killed by the bacteria and quenches the bacteria so that it doesn’t do any more harm. It can be used once or twice daily, depending on the prescription.
It can be used subsequently as a maintenance medication and to prevent acne. It comes in a tube form and is easy to use.
Pros
- It is a light gel and is easy to apply.
- It is mild on the skin.
Cons
- Can cause swelling, itching and tingling of the skin.
It is available for sale in online and physical stores.
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Summary
Adapalene is helpful in treating severe and mild acne, but in its absence, any other retinoid can be used, as long as it is prescribed by the dermatologist. Some of them have different brand names but they must contain the key ingredients that help in fighting the bacteria that cause acne and inflammation of the skin.
So far, we have been able to list twenty others that can be used as Adapalene alternatives. Most of them are available in stores, while few of them have direct links where they can be gotten online.
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