Can adapalene be used with benzoyl peroxide?

Adapalene is photostable and does not degrade in contact with benzoyl peroxide.

Evidence

Source:: Martin B et al. Br J Dermatol. 1998;139 Suppl 52:8-11
Applies to:: Formulations containing adapaleno 0
What this does not establish:: How a given product performs on your skin. Finished-product pH and concentration are rarely published, so this describes the chemistry, not a measurement of any specific product.
Last reviewed:: 2026-09-26

In practice

Unlike tretinoin and retinol, adapalene is photochemically stable and does not degrade in contact with benzoyl peroxide — the two are combined in prescription products for exactly that reason. The usual advice to separate retinoids from benzoyl peroxide does not apply here.

Dermasift analyses skincare formulations against published cosmetic science. This is information, not medical advice — for a diagnosed skin condition, speak to a dermatologist.

Check this against a product’s ingredient list

Can adapalene be used with benzoyl peroxide?

Adapalene is photostable and does not degrade in contact with benzoyl peroxide.

Evidence

Source:: Martin B et al. Br J Dermatol. 1998;139 Suppl 52:8-11
Applies to:: Formulations containing adapaleno 0
What this does not establish:: How a given product performs on your skin. Finished-product pH and concentration are rarely published, so this describes the chemistry, not a measurement of any specific product.
Last reviewed:: 2026-09-26

In practice

Dermasift analyses skincare formulations against published cosmetic science. This is information, not medical advice — for a diagnosed skin condition, speak to a dermatologist.

Check this against a product’s ingredient list