Adapalene vs Tretinoin
Both target acne, texture and pigmentation. Here's how they differ, and whether you should pick one or use both.
| Adapalene | Tretinoin | |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Acne, texture and pigmentation | Aging, acne, pigmentation and texture |
| Typical strength | 0.1% | 0.025% – 0.1% (prescription) |
| Best time | PM | PM |
| Irritation | ||
| Best for | Oily And Combination | Oily, Normal And Combination |
| Pregnancy | Avoid | Avoid |
| Price in India | ₹200 – ₹700 | ₹150 – ₹700 |
The verdict
Both are similarly gentle. Choose based on your main goal: Adapalene for acne, texture and pigmentation, Tretinoin for aging, acne, pigmentation and texture.
Using both? Don't mix Adapalene and Tretinoin are both retinoids. Doubling up does not double results. It just doubles the dryness, peeling and irritation. Pick one. How to layer them →
Adapalene in short
A synthetic retinoid built for acne. It unclogs pores and calms the inflammation behind breakouts. It is more stable than retinol, and in India it is sold as a gel (often by prescription).
Tretinoin in short
The prescription-strength retinoid, and the gold standard for acne and photo-ageing, with decades of evidence. It works directly (no conversion needed), so it is stronger and more irritating than retinol or retinal.
Not sure which fits your skin?
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