Adapalene is sometimes used as an alternative to tretinoin, which is a common treatment for KP. Adapalene is a retinoid compound that works by stimulating cell turnover. This limits the amount of keratin that can build up in your skin to cause KP. The top layer of your skin will become thinner, which makes it less likely that your pores will get blocked. Adapalene is sometimes used over tretinoin because it provides similar results with fewer side effects, such as light sensitivity.