---
title: DermNet NZ — Topical retinoids
entity_type: Source
canonical_url: https://skinknowledgebase.com/sources/dermnet-topical-retinoids
date_modified: 2026-05-10
date_reviewed: 2026-05-10
mcp_eligible: true
source_type: medical_reference
original_source_url: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/topical-retinoids
evidence_sources: []
product_fact_sources: []
---

# DermNet NZ — Topical retinoids

## Quick Summary

Dermatology reference for topical retinoids including adapalene and expected irritation during onboarding.

## What Studied

This Source page records the evidence item used by the blackheads-on-nose page. It is used for definition, consumer-care guidance, ingredient mechanism context, tolerability framing, or evidence support for salicylic acid and adapalene in comedone-prone routines.

## Main Findings

For this page, the source supports conservative appearance-level guidance: blackheads are open comedones rather than dirt; gentle routines are preferable to scrubbing and squeezing; salicylic acid and adapalene are relevant topical actives; and irritation can happen when active routines are introduced too aggressively.

## Why It Matters

This source helps keep the page grounded in verifiable dermatology, regulatory, public-health, or peer-reviewed material rather than marketing claims. It also supports the page's distinction between visible blackhead care and medical acne decision-making.

## Related Entities

- [Differin Gel — Adapalene 0.1% Acne Treatment](https://skinknowledgebase.com/products/differin-gel-adapalene)
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- [What's the difference between retinol and retinoid?](https://skinknowledgebase.com/questions/whats-the-difference-between-retinol-and-retinoid)
- [Retinoids](https://skinknowledgebase.com/ingredients/retinoids)
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- [Adapalene](https://skinknowledgebase.com/ingredients/adapalene)
- [Retinol](https://skinknowledgebase.com/ingredients/retinol)
- [Is bakuchiol a natural alternative to retinol?](https://skinknowledgebase.com/questions/is-bakuchiol-a-natural-alternative-to-retinol)
- [Can I use retinol and vitamin C together?](https://skinknowledgebase.com/questions/can-i-use-retinol-and-vitamin-c-together)
- [How do I calm redness after using retinol?](https://skinknowledgebase.com/questions/how-do-i-calm-redness-after-using-retinol)
- [How do I get rid of blackheads on my nose?](https://skinknowledgebase.com/questions/how-do-i-get-rid-of-blackheads-on-my-nose)