Category: topical
Aliases: Differin, CD271
Aromatic naphthoic-acid retinoid analog that selectively activates RAR-β and RAR-γ (the retinoid receptors dominant in the epidermis) with minimal RAR-α activation. Comedolytic, normalises keratinisation, and is notably anti-inflammatory — directly inhibits AP-1 and toll-like-receptor signalling in keratinocytes, suppressing IL-8 and other pro-inflammatory mediators. Better photostability and less irritation than tretinoin, at roughly similar efficacy for mild-moderate acne. Systemic exposure is minimal — adapalene is highly lipophilic and poorly absorbed across intact skin.