From the Guidelines
Adapalene 0.1% gel is the most effective over-the-counter retinoid available in Canada for both acne and anti-aging purposes. This is based on the most recent guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris, which suggest that adapalene is a viable option for acne treatment, with its availability over-the-counter making it more accessible 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Adapalene works by normalizing cell turnover, reducing inflammation, and promoting collagen production, making it effective for both acne and anti-aging 1.
- It is essential to apply sunscreen daily when using adapalene, as retinoids increase sun sensitivity 1.
- Initial dryness, redness, or peeling during the first 2-4 weeks of use are normal as the skin adjusts 1.
- Adapalene is particularly effective because it binds to specific retinoid receptors that regulate cell growth and inflammation, causing less irritation than prescription tretinoin 1.
Usage Recommendations
- Apply a pea-sized amount to clean, dry skin in the evening, starting with 2-3 times per week and gradually increasing to nightly use as the skin builds tolerance.
- Pair with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and products containing ingredients like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid for enhanced results.
- Avoid using other exfoliants like AHAs/BHAs on the same nights as adapalene to prevent excessive irritation.
Important Considerations
- Topical retinoids may cause photosensitivity, and concurrent daily sunscreen use can reduce sunburn risks 1.
- Adapalene 0.1% gel is available over-the-counter, while other topical retinoids are available by prescription only 1.
From the Research
Effective Retinoids for Acne and Anti-Aging in Canada
The most effective retinoid for acne and anti-aging available over-the-counter (OTC) in Canada can be determined by examining the efficacy and tolerability of various topical retinoids.
- Adapalene is a retinoid agent indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris, and it has been shown to be effective in clinical trials 2.
- Adapalene 0.1% gel is equally effective to tretinoin 0.025% or tretinoin microsphere 0.1% gel or tretinoin 0.05% cream or isotretinoin 0.05% gel 3.
- Tazarotene 0.1% is more effective than tretinoin 0.025% or 0.1% microsphere gel or adapalene 0.1% gel or cream, but it is not approved for acne treatment in Canada 3.
Tolerability and Safety
The safety profile of topical retinoids differs from their systemic counterparts and is related mainly to local adverse effects, such as erythema, dryness, itching, and stinging 3, 4.
- Adapalene 0.1% gel is significantly better tolerated than tazarotene 0.1% gel, tretinoin 0.025% and tretinoin 0.05% gel, tretinoin 0.05% cream, tretinoin microsphere 0.1% gel or isotretinoin 0.05% gel 3.
- Adapalene has a rapid onset of action and a particularly favourable tolerability profile compared with other retinoids, which can promote patient compliance 2.
Availability in Canada
Topical tretinoin, isotretinoin (13-cis retinoic acid), and adapalene are accredited in Canada and Europe for acne treatment 4.