Is Adapalene Safe During Pregnancy? #

Adapalene is a topical retinoid best known as the active in Differin. Retinoids are widely recommended to pause during pregnancy, and adapalene falls into that same avoid category.

Quick verdict #

• Avoid: adapalene and all retinoid treatments during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Use with caution: high-strength acne treatments that combine multiple strong actives.
• Safer alternatives: azelaic acid, niacinamide, and gentle exfoliation.

What adapalene does #

Adapalene speeds up skin cell turnover to help clear acne and smooth texture. It is effective but belongs to the retinoid family, which is not recommended in pregnancy due to potential systemic absorption risks.

Why adapalene is avoided in pregnancy #

• Retinoids are linked to birth defect risk when taken orally.
• Topical absorption is lower, but medical guidance is to avoid retinoids during pregnancy.
• Most clinicians recommend stopping retinoids when trying to conceive and throughout pregnancy.

Pregnancy-safe alternatives #

• Azelaic acid for acne, redness, and pigmentation.
• Niacinamide for oil control and barrier support.
• Mandelic or lactic acid for gentle exfoliation.
• Sulfur for breakouts without retinoids.

Product examples from our database #

• Deriva Deriva Adaplene Microspheres Plus Clindamycin Phosphate Gel (score 37) - contains adapalene, avoid during pregnancy.
• Dermatica Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Azelaic Acid 15%) (score 37) - contains adapalene, avoid during pregnancy.
• Deriva Deriva MS Aqueous Gel (score 35) - contains adapalene, avoid during pregnancy.
• Dermatica Dermatica Custom Formula ( Adapalene 0.3%, Benzoyl Peroxide, 2.5% Niacinamide 4%) Lotion (score 35) - contains adapalene, avoid during pregnancy.
• Dermatica Dermatica Custom Formula Lotion (score 35) - contains adapalene, avoid during pregnancy.
• FROIKA FROIKA Dipalen Gel (score 35) - contains adapalene, avoid during pregnancy.

Ingredient watchlist from our library #

• Retinoids (high risk): avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Hydroquinone (medium risk): higher absorption; commonly avoided.
• Strong exfoliating acids (medium risk): limit leave-on AHAs and BHAs; skip peels.

FAQs #

• Is adapalene safe during pregnancy? No. Adapalene is a retinoid and is generally avoided during pregnancy.
• Can I use Differin while pregnant? Differin contains adapalene, so it should be paused unless your clinician advises otherwise.
• What are safer alternatives to adapalene? Azelaic acid, niacinamide, and gentle exfoliating acids are common alternatives.

Read next #

• Is Azelaic Acid Safe During Pregnancy?
• Is Salicylic Acid Safe During Pregnancy?
• Retinoids in Pregnancy: Safety Guide

References #

• DermNet NZ on topical retinoids: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/topical-retinoids
• ACOG on skin changes in pregnancy: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy
• FDA on acne products: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/over-counter-otc-nonprescription-drugs/acne-products-what-you-need-know

Download MamaSkin (iOS and Android): App Store | Google Play