While I usually can’t complain about my combination skin, the older I get, the more I’m experiencing hormonal acne around the time of menstruation and ovulation. I tend to notice the biggest pores near my chin, and when one particularly pesky underground pimple finally surfaced, I thought it was the perfect time to test Skinfix’s Acne+ Adapinoid Gel ($48).
While I’m used to slapping on an acne patch and praying that the bumps go away overnight, there’s a big difference between a single pimple and an entire acne-prone area. Upon doing further research, I liked the sound of a barrier-restorative product that hydrates and moisturizes to ensure healthier-looking skin long-term. In general, gels do feel far less harsh on my skin, whereas acne patches can cause minor irritation and redness in the area — despite how well they work.
In addition, Skinfix shares clinical results from consumer-perception studies on its product page, in which 100 percent of participants agreed the Adapinoid Gel is gentle to the skin barrier; 94 percent said their skin felt healthier after using it; and 94 percent said they noticed a reduction in pores, fewer blemishes, and skin clarity.
Swayed by the obvious benefits, I got to work slowly acclimating my skin to the product (more on that process ahead), and I am happy to say I have very positive results to report. Ahead, see how the Skinfix Acne+ Adapinoid Gel actually diminished my pimple in three nights and left a healthy, moisturized surface rather than dry and irritated skin that’s begging to be peeled.
About the Skinfix Acne+ Adapinoid Gel
- This product is cruelty-free and vegan, and it comes in sustainable packaging, regulated by Bluebird’s full Life Cycle Analysis for the carbon and waste impact.
- The main ingredient, Adapinoid, is dermatologist-recommended and clinically proven to visibly reduce pores, according to the brand.
- The key ingredients are Adapinoid, two percent niacinamide, HydraSoothe, squalane, amino acid, chlorophyllin, and sodium hyualuronate.
- The noncomedogenic, non-acnegenic gel is free of EDTAs (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), propylene glycol, fragrances, parabens, and silicones, and is allergy tested and pH balanced.
What I Like About the Skinfix Acne+ Adapinoid Gel
First of all, I find the creamy texture of this gel to be nice and cooling. It’s not too thick or too filmy, and it glides on easily. While it’s buildable, a little goes a long way — as proven by the fact that you should start with only half a pump for your face. I used it both during the day and at night, and slowly watched as my pimple seemed to flatten and then “melt” into my skin. It left the area feeling even more plump and hydrated than it did before. The above photos were taken first thing in the morning after waking up, and there’s absolutely no filter used, so you can see the true effects of a three-day period.
How to Use the Skinfix Acne+ Adapinoid Gel
As stated on the bottle, the outer packaging, and the website, you’re meant to slowly acclimate your skin to the Adapinoid Gel; you should begin by applying half a pump to your face at night after thoroughly cleansing and letting the area dry. You can increase to a full pump over time, but if you’re using it in the morning, you should wait until the product is fully absorbed before applying SPF and going about your daily skin-care routine.
Personally, I find that the gel works best when it’s concentrated under a small bandage or some sort of covering, especially since I have specific problem areas. You could say I’m mimicking the function of a patch, but in actuality, this acne gel is much gentler and a light bandage is still breathable. (In the past, I’ve even used a small piece of second skin that I’ve had on hand from previous tattoo care since it’s a flexible covering that moves with your skin without tugging at it.)
What to Consider Before Trying the Skinfix Acne+ Adapinoid Gel
If you’re looking for an instant overnight fix for a pimple, Skinfix’s Acne+ Adapinoid Gel requires a bit more patience. However, there are so many benefits to treating your skin with kindness and taking the slow approach. In the long run, the gel helps you achieve a complexion that’s hydrated and plump without redness or flakiness, whereas an acne patch is more fast-acting and concentrated in its results.
If you have rosacea, you should try a different product, as the active ingredients may cause further irritation, according to the brand. If you are new to using retinoids, you should ensure you’re not using AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), or other retinoids within the same skin regimen. Finally, while Skinfix says its products are considered safe during pregnancy, you should always check with your personal physician.
Where Is the Skinfix Acne+ Adapinoid Gel Available?
The Skinfix Acne+ Adapinoid Gel is available at Amazon, Sephora, and on the brand’s website.
Rating:
★★★★☆
Sarah Wasilak is the associate director of shopping at PS. With plenty of experience in the shopping market, a keen interest in SEO, and 10 years as an editor at the brand, she enjoys writing across the lifestyle and health-and-fitness categories. She has bylines at PS, InStyle, Elle, Refinery29, Who What Wear, Elite Daily, Byrdie, and The Quality Edit and aims to amplify minority voices in all her work.