Adapalene is a vitamin A–derived retinoid prescribed to encourage cell turnover, helping refine pores, and support clearer-looking skin.
First developed in the late 1980s and approved for UK use in 2003, adapalene remains a clinically established option for treating acne.
your quick and secure consultation
your adapalene prescription plan
your formula as your skin improves
Made in a gentle vegan base cream, your adapalene formula may include other active ingredients, selected from azelaic acid, clindamycin, and niacinamide.
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VS | Retail |
|---|---|---|
| Prescription Retinoid | Cosmetic Retinol Only | |
| 3-in-1 Active Treatment | 3 Separate Products Needed | |
| Personalised To Your Skin | One-Size-Fits-All | |
| Up To 20× Higher Efficacy | Limited Visible Change | |
| Care From UK-Registered Pharmacists | Standard Retail Product | |
| Dermatology-Grade Standards | Non-Clinical Standards | |
Monderma’s adapalene formulas are overseen by GPhC-registered prescribers and pharmacists for safe, guided use.
As your skin adjusts over time, your prescriber can review and modify the strength or frequency to ensure the treatment remains suitable.
My skin is looking great and is very happy!
Packaging is very luxurious and the cream itself is a lovely consistency which absorbs in to the skin.
Skin feels clearer already!
Really good product to use and excellent results within a few weeks so far.
Amazing custom skin formulae high quality and value
It’s been about 3 months since I’ve been using Monderma, and I can say I’ve seen transformative results on my face.
Personalised adapalene formulas created to encourage renewal, smooth uneven texture, and support clearer-looking skin.
Learn what your skin needs through a guided consultation today.
Monderma's adapalene is typically applied to your face. It can also be used on your neck and under-eye area with moisturiser. A low strength is recommended for these areas, as they are more sensitive. Avoid applying it too close to your eyelids.
Apply TWO pumps to clean, dry skin on the affected area(s) once daily at NIGHT. After application, wash your hands and follow up with applying a moisturiser. Use a sunscreen of SPF30 or higher daily to protect your skin.
Monderma prescribes adapalene in strengths ranging from 0.1% to a maximum of 0.3%, in accordance with national guidelines.
The most suitable strength for you varies based on several factors, including whether it is acne, ageing skin, or hyperpigmentation being treated, prior use of retinoids, and individual skin response. Starting too high or increasing strength too quickly can lead to skin irritation.
While some users gradually increase their strength, the majority find that maintaining a consistent, lower concentration provides optimal results for their skin.
You may start to see visible results after 1 week. However, for lasting results, we recommend nightly use for at least 12 weeks.
In most cases, adapalene is a safe and reliable ingredient for long-term use.
Although adapalene is designed to treat skin conditions, some users may experience mild side effects. This includes peeling, tingling, and redness, particularly during the initial adjustment period.
To minimise this risk, Monderma recommends starting with a lower strength and applying a moisturiser to support your skin as it adapts.
Adapalene is not safe for use during pregnancy. If you are trying to conceive, become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discontinue use immediately and contact us for further guidance.
Adapalene should not be used with harsh exfoliants, alcohol-based products, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid at the same time, as these can cause skin irritation. However, it is generally safe to combine with most other over-the-counter skincare products.
If you need to use any other prescription skincare, you must notify Monderma to ensure your adapalene formula is safe for continued use.
Additionally, always notify each healthcare or procedure provider about your prescription skincare use. Some procedures may require pausing application before and after to minimise the risk of skin sensitivity and adverse reactions.