Releases wavelengths of blue light that penetrate deep into your skin to kill acne-causing bacteria, P. acnes, and soothe inflammatory acne vulgaris. Basically, within P. acnes bacteria, there are small molecules known as porphyrins. When exposed to 420 nm and shorter wavelengths of light, porphyrins generate free radicals that attack and kill P. acnes bacteria.
As a retinoid, adapalene works by normalizing the shedding of skin cells to prevent pores from clogging and blemishes from forming. Since the medication draws existing bacteria to the surface of the skin, your skin may look worse before it gets better. It takes about 8-12 weeks to see results.