Can adapalene gel treat folliculitis?

Nov 29, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

The efficacy of adapalene gel in treating folliculitis depends on the specific condition. It may serve as an adjunctive treatment for bacterial folliculitis caused by Cutibacterium acnes, but is not suitable for fungal infections or folliculitis resulting from other causes. Daily skin hygiene should be maintained, and scratching of affected follicular areas should be avoided to prevent infection. A light, low-grease diet is recommended to reduce the risk of pore blockage.

Adapalene gel's effectiveness in treating folliculitis depends on the specific cause. It may serve as an adjunctive treatment for bacterial folliculitis caused by *Propionibacterium acnes*, but it is not suitable for folliculitis caused by fungal infections or other factors. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Bacterial folliculitis often presents as red papules with small white pustules on top. When associated with clogged pores and excessive sebum production, adapalene gel can help unclog pores, regulate follicular keratinization, and reduce sebum accumulation, thereby indirectly suppressing the proliferation of *P. acnes* and alleviating symptoms—particularly beneficial for mild bacterial folliculitis.

For malassezia folliculitis caused by fungal infection, or folliculitis resulting from trauma or low immunity, adapalene gel has no targeted therapeutic effect. These types require antifungal agents or other appropriate medications. Misusing adapalene gel may irritate the skin and worsen symptoms such as redness and itching.

In daily care, maintain skin cleanliness and avoid scratching affected areas to prevent infection. Follow a light, low-fat diet to reduce the risk of pore blockage. Select medications according to the type of folliculitis. When using adapalene gel, take care to protect skin from sun exposure and prevent dryness or peeling to support skin recovery.

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