Here's our complete breakdown comparing the ingredients, attributes, and more of Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) versus Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) .
Published on June 13, 2023
Overview
What they are
These products are both reef safe prescription. They have a total of 26 ingredients in common
Cool Features
They both contain ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, retinoid and Vitamin E
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, anti aging, dry skin, brightening skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, reducing pores and dark spots
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils, parabens or sulfates
What's Inside
They both contain silicones
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that need an update? Let us know.
Prescription
Prescription skincare treatments. The ingredients in these product are prescription strength and considered medication. In many countries, these must be prescribed by a certified professional.
Prescription
Prescription skincare treatments. The ingredients in these product are prescription strength and considered medication. In many countries, these must be prescribed by a certified professional.
Price
Ingredient Info
Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) 27 ingredients
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) 28 ingredients
Alcohol Free
This product is free of harsh alcohols 🎉
Contains Silicon
Ingredients in this product that are types of silicon:
Fragrance Free
This product is free of fragrances 🎉
Sulfate Free
This product is free of sulfates 🎉
Paraben Free
This product is free of parabens 🎉
Oil Free
This product is free of oils 🎉
Not Malassezia Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not malassezia safe:
Reef Safe
This product is free of ingredients that damage reefs 🎉
EU Allergen Free
This product is free of EU allergens 🎉
Non Vegan
This product is not vegan 😥
Not Cruelty Free
This product is not cruelty-free 😥
Alcohol Free
This product is free of harsh alcohols 🎉
Contains Silicon
Ingredients in this product that are types of silicon:
Fragrance Free
This product is free of fragrances 🎉
Sulfate Free
This product is free of sulfates 🎉
Paraben Free
This product is free of parabens 🎉
Oil Free
This product is free of oils 🎉
Not Malassezia Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not malassezia safe:
Reef Safe
This product is free of ingredients that damage reefs 🎉
EU Allergen Free
This product is free of EU allergens 🎉
Non Vegan
This product is not vegan 😥
Not Cruelty Free
This product is not cruelty-free 😥
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) 27 ingredients
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) 28 ingredients
Notable Ingredients
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Benefits
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Concerns
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Notable Ingredients
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
Benefits
This product contains 4 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 4 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 3 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 3 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 3 ingredients that may have this attribute:
Concerns
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Join SkinSortIngredients Compared
Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) 27 ingredients
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) 28 ingredients
Tretinoin 0.02% • Niacinamide 4% • Water • Propylene Glycol • Glycerin • Panthenol • Cetyl Alcohol • Glyceryl Stearate • Isohexadecane • Isododecane • C13-15 Alkane • Dimethicone • Propanediol • Polyacrylate-13 • Polyisobutene • Polysorbate 20 • Polyurethane-39 • Phenoxyethanol 0.6% • Tocopheryl Acetate • Ceramide AP • Ceramide NP • Phytosphingosine • Cholesterol • Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate • Xanthan Gum • Carbomer • Sodium Hyaluronate
Water • Adapalene 0.1% • Niacinamide 4% • Clindamycin Phosphate 1% • Propylene Glycol • Glycerin • Panthenol • Cetyl Alcohol • Glyceryl Stearate • Isohexadecane • Isododecane • C13-15 Alkane • Dimethicone • Propanediol • Polyacrylate-13 • Polyisobutene • Polysorbate 20 • Polyurethane-39 • Phenoxyethanol 0.6% • Tocopheryl Acetate • Ceramide AP • Ceramide NP • Phytosphingosine • Cholesterol • Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate • Xanthan Gum • Carbomer • Sodium Hyaluronate
Ingredients Side-by-side
Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.
Learn more about what what Com. / Irr. ratings are
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Niacinamide has emerged as an all-star ingredient due to its many benefits.
It is known to treat acne by reducing inflammation. It also helps fade dark-spots and strengthen the skin by promoting the growth of the ceramide barrier.
Other benefits include smoothing wrinkles and minimizing redness.
The cherry on top? Niacinamide can also help build keratin, a protein that keeps skin firm.
When incorporating niacinamide into your routine, look out for concentration amounts. Typically, 5% niacinamide provides benefits such as fading dark spots. However, if you have sensitive skin, it is better to begin with a smaller concentration.
Niacinamide can be mixed with other ingredients to boost benefits. For instance, it has shown to be effective when used with copper, folic acid, and zinc to treat acne.
Learn more about NiacinamideDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 2.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 3.
Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. Talk about multi-purpose! If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 3.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 1.
Propylene Glycol is an odorless, colorless liquid. As a humectant, it helps skin retain moisture. It also aids in delivering active ingredients.
Another role of this ingredient is preventing a product from melting or freezing. Propylene glycol also adds antimicrobrial properties to a product, elongating product lifespan.
This ingredient is considered an organic alcohol and commonly added into both cosmetics and foods.
Those with sensitive skin or conditions may deliver a rash when using this ingredient.
Learn more about Propylene GlycolDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 4.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 5.
Glycerin is already naturally found in your skin. It helps moisturize and protect your skin.
A study from 2016 found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
As a humectant, it helps the skin stay hydrated by pulling moisture to your skin. The low molecular weight of glycerin allows it to pull moisture into the deeper layers of your skin.
Hydrated skin improves your skin barrier; Your skin barrier helps protect against irritants and bacteria.
Glycerin has also been found to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Due to these properties, glycerin is often used in wound and burn treatments.
In cosmetics, glycerin is usually derived from plants such as soybean or palm. However, it can also be sourced from animals, such as tallow or animal fat.
This ingredient is organic, colorless, odorless, and non-toxic.
Glycerin is the name for this ingredient in American English. British English uses Glycerol/Glycerine.
Learn more about GlycerinDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 5.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 6.
Panthenol (also referred to as pro-vitamin B5) is a common ingredient that helps hydrate and soothe the skin.
lt is a humectant, meaning that it helps the skin attract and retain moisture.
Another benefit is the anti-inflammatory abilities. This means that it's great for sensitive, irritation-prone skin.
Once oxidized, panthenol converts to pantothenic acid. Panthothenic acid is found in all living cells.
Learn more about PanthenolDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 6.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 7.
Cetyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol. Fatty Alcohols are most often used as an emollient or to thicken a product.
Cetyl Alcohol is not related to SD alcohol, denatured alcohol, or ethyl alcohol. The FDA allows products labeled "alcohol-free" to have fatty alcohols.
Its main roles are:
Learn more about Cetyl AlcoholDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 7.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 8.
Glyceryl Stearate is a mix of glycerin and stearic acid.
Glyceryl Stearate is used to stabilize the mixing of water and oil ingredients. By preventing these ingredients from separating, it can help elongate shelf life. It can also help thicken the product's texture.
As an emollient, it helps soften skin and supports barrier-replenishing ingredients.
In cosmetics, Glyceryl Stearate is often made from vegetable oils or synthetically produced. The human body also creates Glyceryl Stearate naturally.
Learn more about Glyceryl StearateDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 8.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 9.
Isohexadecane is added to enhance texture, emulsify, and to help cleanse. It is an isoparrafin. It is a component of petrolatum.
Due to its large size, Isohexadecane is not absorbed by the skin. Instead, it sits on top and acts as an emollient. Emollients help keep your skin soft and smooth by trapping moisture within.
Isohexadecane is often used in products designed to help oily skin. It is lightweight and non-greasy while helping to moisturize. When mixed with silicones, it gives a product a silky feel.
Learn more about IsohexadecaneDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 9.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 10.
Isododecane is a fragrance, emollient, and solvent.
As an emollient, it helps your skin stay soft and hydrated. Emollients help trap moisture into your skin.
Isododecane's role as a solvent makes it a great texture enhancer. It spreads smoothly on skin and does not leave a sticky feeling behind. Isododecane also helps prevent color transfer in makeup products.
Isododecane is not absorbed into skin.
Learn more about IsododecaneDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 10.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 11.
C13-15 Alkane is a group of alkanes with 13 to 15 carbon atoms in the alkyl chain.
It is a solvent and texture enhancer. Solvents are used to keep ingredients together in a product. They can help dissolve ingredients to stable bases or help evenly distribute ingredients throughout the product.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 11.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 12.
Dimethicone is a silicone used for making products smooth and silky. It also has the added benefit of sealing in hydration. The amount of dimethicone found in beauty products is considered safe and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores.
Dimethicone has been found increase absorption in skin, boosting the benefits of other ingredients. While there is concern for the safety of dimethicone, the levels used in skincare are safe for use.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 12.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 13.
Propanediol helps absorb ingredients into your skin, boosting their benefits. It can act as an emollient, making your skin softer. Propanediol can help products last longer by boosting the properties of preservatives within the formulation.
Propanediol is not likely to cause sensitivity and considered safe to use.
It is derived from corn or petroleum with a clear color and no scent.
Learn more about PropanediolDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 13.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 14.
Polyacrylate-13 is a type of acrylate polymer. Acrylate polymers are commonly used as adhesives in cosmetics.
Polyacrylate-13 creates a film to protect the skin. It is also used to thicken and stabilize a product. It works by making water a gel-like consistency. This gel consistency helps suspend particles.
Polyacrylate-13 is a copolymer of acrylic acid, acrylamide, sodium acrylate, sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate monomers
Learn more about Polyacrylate-13Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 14.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 15.
Polyisobutene is a synthetic polymer made from isobutene.
It is a film-forming agent and helps bind ingredients together.
Polyisobutene is not absorbed by the skin.
Learn more about PolyisobuteneDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 15.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 16.
Polysorbate 20 is made by combining ethoxylation of sorbitan, ethylene oxide, and lauric acid. It is a mild cleansing agent, surfactant, and emulsifier.
As a surfactant, it helps collect dirt and oils for washing. Emulsifiers prevent oils and water from separating.
Polysorbate 20 also adds scent to a product. Since it is made using sorbitol, it has a sweet scent. Sorbitol can also be found in fruits such as apples and peaches.
The lauric acid used to create Polysorbate 20 is often derived from coconuts.
Polysorbate 20 may not be fungal acne safe.
Learn more about Polysorbate 20Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 16.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 17.
We don't have a description for Polyurethane-39.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 17.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 18.
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent germ and microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 18.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 19.
Tocopheryl Acetate is AKA Vitamin E. It is an antioxidant and protects your skin from free radicals. Free radicals damage the skin by breaking down collagen.
One study found using Tocopheryl Acetate with Vitamin C decreased the number of sunburned cells.
Tocopheryl Acetate is commonly found in both skincare and dietary supplements.
Learn more about Tocopheryl AcetateDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 19.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 20.
Ceramide AP is a type of Ceramide.
Ceramides are intercellular lipids naturally found in our skin that bonds dead skin cells together to create a barrier. Having a strong skin barrier leads to more firm and hydrated skin.
They are known for their ability to hold water and thus are a great ingredient for dry skin. By bolstering the skin ceramides act as a barrier against irritating ingredients. This can help with inflammation as well.
If you would like to eat ceramides, sweet potatoes contain a small amount.
Read more about other common types of ceramides here: Ceramide NP Ceramide EOP
Learn more about Ceramide APDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 20.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 21.
Ceramide NP is a type of ceramide.
Ceramides are intercellular lipids naturally found in our skin that bonds dead skin cells together to create a barrier. They are known for their ability to hold water and thus are a great ingredient for dry skin.
Ceramides are an important building block for our skin barrier. A stronger barrier helps the skin look more firm and hydrated. By bolstering the skin ceramides act as a barrier against irritating ingredients. This can help with inflammation as well.
If you would like to eat ceramides, sweet potatoes contain a small amount.
Read more about other common types of ceramides here: Ceramide AP Ceramide EOP
Learn more about Ceramide NPDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 22.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 23.
Phytosphingosine is a phospholipid naturally found in our skin. It helps moisturize, soothe, and protect skin.
Phytosphingosine is already present in our skin. On our skin, it is a building block for ceramides.
Phytosphingosine tells our skin to increase its natural moisturizing factor (NMF). The NMF is responsible for hydration, a strong barrier, and plasticity. Our NMF decreases with age. Increasing NMF leads to more healthy and hydrated skin.
Studies show products formulated with NMF ingredients help strengthen our skin's barrier. Having a healthy skin barrier reduces irritation and increases hydration. Our skin barrier is responsible for having plump and firm skin. It also helps protect our skin against infection, allergies, and inflammation.
Phytosphingosine is also abundant in plants and fungi.
More ingredients that help boost collagen in skin:
Learn more about PhytosphingosineDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 23.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 24.
Cholesterol is a class of organic molecules called lipids. It helps hydrate your skin and is essential to having a healthy skin barrier.
Our skin naturally contains cholesterol in the outermost layer. Besides cholesterol, it also contains ceramides and fatty acids. Cholesterol makes up about 1/4 of your skin's outer layer and barrier. Your skin barrier is responsible for keeping allergens and microbes out. Having a healthy skin barrier is also responsible for keeping your skin firm and plump.
Our bodies use cholestrol to create vitamin D, steroid hormones, and more.
Learn more about CholesterolDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 24.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 25.
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate is the lauric acid sodium salt of lactyl lactate.
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate is an emulsifier and surfactant.
Emulsifiers help stabilize a product. They do this by preventing ingredients from separating, such as oils and water which do not mix naturally. Surfactants reduce surface tension, making it easier to rinse pollutants off skin.
Due to its relation to lauric acid, it may provide antimicrobial benefits.
Learn more about Sodium Lauroyl LactylateDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 25.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 26.
Xanthan gum is used as a stabilizer and thickener within cosmetic products. It helps give products a sticky, thick feeling - preventing them from being too runny.
On the technical side of things, xanthan gum is a polysaccharide - a combination consisting of multiple sugar molecules bonded together.
Xanthan gum is a pretty common and great ingredient. It is a natural, non-toxic, non-irritating ingredient that is also commonly used in food products.
Learn more about Xanthan GumDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 26.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 27.
Carbomer is a polymer of acrylic acid. Its main role is to create gel consistency within products.
Carbomer is commonly found in many types of cosmetics products. It is found to be safe in concentrations up to 15%. However, a high amount of carbomer can cause pilling or balling up of products. Most products contain 1% of less of carbomer.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 27.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 28.
Sodium Hyaluronate is hyaluronic acid's salt form. It is commonly derived from the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid.
Like hyaluronic acid, it is great at holding water and acts as a humectant. This makes it a great skin hydrating ingredient.
Sodium Hyaluronate is naturally occurring in our bodies and is mostly found in eye fluid and joints.
These are some other common types of Hyaluronic Acid:
Learn more about Sodium HyaluronateDermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) contains this as ingredient number 28.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) contains this as ingredient number 29.
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these two products.
Dermatica Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.015%, Niacinamide 4%) 27 ingredients
Dermatica Custom Formula (Adapalene 0.1%, Niacinamide 4%, Clindamycin 1%) 28 ingredients
Usage
Here's some more info on how this product is used by our community.