I recently had skin problems and my dermatologist recommended adapalene for me. Adapalene is used to treat acne in adults.If you are using the gel or cream, use your fingers to spread a thin film of medication over the affected area.You may feel a slight warmth or stinging in the place where you applied it. This feeling is normal and should go away by itself in a short time.It is in a class of medications called retinoid-like compounds.