Adapalene / Benzoyl Peroxide Topical Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 9, 2025.

Usual Adult Dose for Acne

Usual dose: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day

Comments:

• The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application.
• A pea-sized amount should be used for each area of the face (e.g., forehead, chin, each cheek).

Use: Topical treatment of acne vulgaris

Usual Pediatric Dose for Acne

Adapalene 0.1%/Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% Gel
9 years and older:

• Usual dose: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day

Comments:

• The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application.
• A pea-sized amount should be used for each area of the face (e.g., forehead, chin, each cheek).

Adapalene 0.3%/Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% Gel
12 years and older:

• Usual dose: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once a day

Comments:

• The affected area should be thoroughly washed and dried before application.
• A pea-sized amount should be used for each area of the face (e.g., forehead, chin, each cheek).

Use: Topical treatment of acne vulgaris

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Dose Adjustments

Severe warmth or stinging on application: Use may be temporarily stopped or the frequency of application decreased until the patient is able to tolerate treatment.

Precautions

Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 9 years (adapalene 0.1%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel) and 12 years (0.3%/2.5% gel).

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:

• This drug is for topical use only, and should be used with caution around mucous membranes and disrupted skin (e.g., abrasions, cuts, eczema, sunburns).

Storage requirements:

• Protect from light and heat; do not freeze.

General:

• Excessive application may increase the risk of skin irritation without improving efficacy.
• Oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use should be avoided.

Monitoring:

• Excessive skin irritation
• Sunburns/increased photosensitivity

Patient advice:

• Patients should be counseled on using appropriate sun protection while on therapy.
• Patients should be instructed to wash the affected area with a mild, non-medicated soap and pat the area dry before application. Patients should be told to avoid washing the area too frequently or scrubbing the skin too hard.
• Patients should be warned that benefits may not be seen for up to 12 weeks; initially, acne may look worse, but patients should not discontinue use during this time.
• Patients should be told to avoid contact with extremes in weather, other topical drugs, agents with strong drying effects, preparations with high alcohol concentrations, abrasive soaps, astringents, spices, and/or lime or lime peels to decrease the risk of skin irritation.

See also:

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer