Can you use Retinol with Adapalene?
No. Do not layer Retinol and Adapalene; they are both retinoids.
Why
Retinol and Adapalene work through the same retinoid pathway. Using both adds irritation (dryness, peeling, redness) without a clear added benefit.
How to use them together
- Pick one retinoid. If a dermatologist prescribed one, follow their plan.
- If switching from one to the other, stop the first before starting the second.
Who should be careful
Retinoids, including prescription ones, should not be used during pregnancy without medical advice.
About the ingredients
Retinol: An over-the-counter vitamin A derivative (retinoid) used for fine lines, texture and uneven tone. It converts to retinoic acid in the skin, so it is milder and slower than prescription tretinoin.
Adapalene: A synthetic retinoid (Differin) for acne, available over the counter at 0.1% in the US. It is more chemically stable than tretinoin, including next to benzoyl peroxide.
FAQ
Can I use Retinol and Adapalene together?
No. Do not layer Retinol and Adapalene; they are both retinoids.
Should I use Retinol or Adapalene in the morning or at night?
Pick one retinoid. If a dermatologist prescribed one, follow their plan. If switching from one to the other, stop the first before starting the second.
Who should be careful combining Retinol and Adapalene?
Retinoids, including prescription ones, should not be used during pregnancy without medical advice.
What if my skin gets irritated using Retinol and Adapalene?
Stop the stronger active, keep a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen, and reintroduce one product at a time once skin calms down. See a dermatologist if irritation persists.
Sources
Studies and reviews on these ingredients and, where available, on this specific combination.
- Kafi R, et al. Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol). Arch Dermatol. 2007;143(5):606-612.
- A review of adapalene in the treatment of acne vulgaris. J Adolesc Health. 2008;43(5).
- Martin B, et al. Chemical stability of adapalene and tretinoin when combined with benzoyl peroxide in presence and in absence of visible light and ultraviolet radiation. Br J Dermatol. 1998;139 Suppl 52:8-11.
Related combinations
- Can you use Retinol with Vitamin C?
- Can you use Retinol with Niacinamide?
- Can you use Retinol with Tretinoin?
- Can you use Retinol with Salicylic Acid?
- Can you use Retinol with Hyaluronic Acid?
- Can you use Retinol with Glycolic Acid?
- Can you use Retinol with Benzoyl Peroxide?
- Can you use Retinol with Sunscreen?