Experts from La Roche-Posay are here to discuss the benefits of their newest product!

It’s been quite some time since we’ve seen any major advances in the over-the-counter acne-treatment world, but the newest launch from La Roche-Posay is poised to step up the blemish-fighting game. Meet Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Retinoid Acne Treatment, which offers medical-grade acne-clearing benefits without the need for a prescription. Once available exclusively through doctors, adapalene has been proven to help clear blackheads, whiteheads, clogged pores and other acne blemishes while preventing new ones from forming.

What is retinol, and why should I add it to my routine?

It’s important to understand the relationship between retinoids such as adapalene and retinol—as well as the differences. Retinoid is a general term used to describe ingredients that are derived from vitamin A such as Retin-A, retinol, adapalene and more. The primary distinction between different types of retinoids is how they are converted to retinoic acid by the skin. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is naturally produced in the body and undergoes a multi-step conversion to retinoid acid, making it gentler than many other forms of retinoids. Prescription-strength retinoids, such as adapalene, are more potent derivatives of vitamin A and therefore take less work to convert to retinoid acid.

While retinol is commonly found in effective over-the-counter anti-aging products (such as La-Roche Posay’s Redermic R Retinol Cream and Redermic Retinol R Eye Cream), retinoids have been traditionally dispensed by prescription. With Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Retinoid Acne Treatment, you can get the acne-improving benefits of adapalene without a trip to the doctor’s office!

When it comes to acne, the boost in skin’s natural exfoliation that results from on-going use of retinoids helps prevent pores from becoming clogged with dead skin cells, which plays a role in minimizing the formation of blemishes. Studies have also shown that adapalene is effective for treating acne with less skin irritation than other retinoids.

Adding adapalene to an anti-acne skin care regimen can have a profound impact, especially when used in conjunction with other products that have been shown to improve breakouts. With a non-greasy, gel-like texture that absorbs quickly, Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Retinoid Acne Treatment is designed to complement La-Roche Posay’s existing lineup of blemish-fighting and skin-soothing products, including:

Effaclar Purifying Gel Cleanser

This gentle cleanser for oily skin effectively targets excess oil (one of the main contributors to acne formation) with zinc pidolate while removing dirt, makeup and other debris and maintaining the skin’s pH balance. Suitable for sensitive skin, this refreshing cleanser won’t strip skin of essential moisture or cause excess dryness.

Toleriane Double Repair

Retinoids can cause dryness and peeling upon beginning use—but the proper moisturizer can help offset these side effects. Hydration is essential for maintaining skin comfort when incorporating a retinoid into your skincare routine. Toleriane Double Repair goes above and beyond by providing skin with much-needed moisture and balancing La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Water while also reinforcing the skin’s protective barrier with ceramides. This creamy, comforting moisturizer helps keep skin calm and under control, so it can reap the benefits of retinoid therapy for acne with fewer side effects (and without the risk of clogged pores).

Anthelios Clear Skin SPF 60 Dry Touch Sunscreen

Sunscreen is imperative for every skin type every day, but it’s especially important when using a retinoid, which can increase sun sensitivity due to its exfoliating effect. Anthelios Clear Skin helps shield the skin from UV damage with SPF 60 and the oil-absorbing, oil-free, antioxidant-enriched, dry-touch texture won’t make breakouts worse.

How to work a retinoid into your regimen

It’s easy to work adapalene into your existing anti-acne regimen. A retinoid is best applied after cleansing and toning at night—but it’s important to start slow, especially if you have sensitive skin. Limit use to once or twice a week when first starting out, then gradually increase frequency to every other night, then every night as tolerated. Be sure to follow with a moisturizer like Toleriane Double Repair to keep dryness, peeling and other side effects to a minimum.

Retinoids such as adapalene are an integral part of any effective anti-acne skincare regimen, but they’re best used along with other dermatologist-developed and tested skin care products. La Roche-Posay is committed to optimizing the health and appearance of every skin—including acne-prone—and this new over-the-counter retinoid is poised to take your clear skin care routine to the next level.

Ready to make the plunge? Check out more La Roche-Posay products at LovelySkin.com.