Top Adapalene Brands: Spotlight on the Best in Skincare Innovation

Navigating the world of skincare can be overwhelming, especially when trying to choose the best brands for specialized treatments like adapalene. Known for its effectiveness in treating acne, adapalene is a popular choice among dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts alike. From affordable drugstore options to high-end brands, finding the right product can make all the difference in achieving great skin results. Discover below our curated list of the best adapalene brands to help guide your skincare journey.

Illustration of adapalene

Best brands of adapalene in 2025

Differin

Differin, a brand known for its adapalene products, introduced its 0.1% topical solution in 1996, gaining FDA approval, and later expanded to include gel, cream, and lotion formulations, even offering a 0.3% gel; the brand's adapalene is a third-generation retinoid effective for acne treatment by regulating skin cell turnover and reducing inflammation, and it was the first over-the-counter, prescription-strength retinoid, now available in 0.1% formulations. The first adapalene formulation was marketed in France in 1995. You can find more information about Differin products.

La Roche-Posay

La Roche-Posay is a leading brand in the production of adapalene, offering its Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% as an over-the-counter treatment, which was approved by the FDA in July 2019 and contains a prescription-strength retinoid, effective for clearing and preventing blackheads, whiteheads, and clogged pores by regulating skin cell turnover. This once-daily treatment is recommended by dermatologists worldwide and is available in a 1.6 oz tube. The adapalene gel, with a concentration of 0.1%, is a synthetic molecule that mimics vitamin A, and helps reduce acne-related hyperpigmentation and the appearance of acne scars, and also fine lines and wrinkles.

Obagi

Obagi, a well-known skincare brand with 35 years of experience, offers adapalene, a third-generation retinoid, in 0.1% and 0.3% concentrations which is effective for treating acne by promoting skin cell turnover and reducing inflammation. It is more stable than some other retinoids, making it suitable for combination therapies, and is available as a cream or gel.

Pharmaceris

Pharmaceris, while not explicitly highlighted as a top adapalene producer, offers a range of skincare products, including those for acne-prone skin, and adapalene is a well-known retinoid for treating acne, often found in 0.1% concentrations. Other brands like Differin have shown up to 87% reduction in acne breakouts after 12 weeks of use, and adapalene works by normalizing skin cell growth and reducing inflammation. While Pharmaceris has not specifically released adapalene in a cream, lotion, or gel, it is important to consult a dermatologist for the best treatment options for your specific skin type and condition. Some studies have indicated that 15% azelaic acid applied twice daily was more effective in treating inflammatory lesions than 0.1% adapalene gel applied once daily. For more information on Pharmaceris products, you can visit their official website.

LaPaula

LaPaula, a notable brand, is recognized for producing adapalene, a third-generation topical retinoid, with formulations typically at 0.1% concentration, although some may be at 0.3%, that is used to treat acne by preventing clogged pores and reducing inflammation, having been approved by the FDA since 1996, and also known for its stability and ability to be combined with other acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide.

AcneFree

AcneFree, founded in 2004, offers a dermatologist-recommended adapalene gel with 0.1% concentration, now available over-the-counter. This once-daily topical retinoid treatment effectively unclogs pores and clears acne, preventing whiteheads and blackheads. Known for causing less irritation than other retinoids, it is suitable for both adults and children 12 years and older.

Perrigo

Perrigo is a leading manufacturer of adapalene, offering a 0.1% cream for topical acne treatment, and launched a generic version of Epiduo gel (adapalene and benzoyl peroxide 0.1%/2.5%) in 2018. Their adapalene cream is formulated with ingredients like carbomer 934P, cyclomethicone, and glycerin, and is intended for once-daily nighttime use. Perrigo's adapalene products are available as both a standalone cream and in combination with benzoyl peroxide. As a major global healthcare company, Perrigo is committed to providing affordable, quality pharmaceutical options, with products sold primarily in North America and Europe. You can find more information on their products at Perrigo's website.

Galderma

Galderma, established in 1981, is a leading dermatology company and a top producer of adapalene, offering various formulations including Differin Gel 0.1%, approved by the FDA in 1996, Differin Gel 0.3%, and Differin Lotion 0.1% which was approved in 2010, and also Epiduo Gel which combines 0.1% adapalene with 2.5% benzoyl peroxide, showing their commitment to effective acne treatments; adapalene works by normalizing skin cell growth and reducing inflammation, and is considered a first-line treatment for acne, having a superior safety profile compared to other retinoids while offering similar efficacy.

ProactivMD

ProactivMD, a brand known for its innovative skincare solutions, launched ProactivMD in 2017, featuring adapalene 0.1% as a key ingredient, marking the first over-the-counter availability of this prescription-strength retinoid in over 30 years. This topical treatment is designed to target acne at the cellular level, helping to clear existing breakouts and prevent new ones from forming, and is available as part of a 3-step system or as a standalone product.

Murad

While Murad is a well-regarded skincare brand, they don't specifically focus on adapalene as a primary ingredient in their product line, instead emphasizing retinol and other ingredients. Although Murad does not highlight adapalene, it is worth noting that adapalene, a retinoid, is available over-the-counter since 2016 and is known for treating acne, with a common concentration of 0.1%, and is effective in improving skin texture and reducing acne scars by increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen production. Murad's approach is to formulate products based on desired results rather than specific percentages, focusing on a whole-person health approach to target specific skin concerns.