I have been using Granactive retinoid 5% in squalene for about a year now. While it is good, I don’t see any huge change. I am 31 years old. My skin is dull and has a lot of hyperpigmentation as a result of hormonal acne (which is finally under control now.)

My morning routine is like this:

Hydrating cleanser from cosrx

Alpha arbutin HA from TO

Vitamin C egf from Inkey list

Azelaic acid 20%

Eucerin face moisturiser with 5% urea.

Evening routine is like this:

same cleanser as morning (sometimes I switch to 0.5% salicylic cleanser from cosrx)

Granactive retinoid 5% from TO

Eucerin face moisturiser with 5% urea.

Since I have heard that Adapalene can really help with dullness and hyperpigmentation, I want to switch to it. Also it’s more affordable than the granactive retinoid where I live. Please suggest how I can put it in my routine and what changes I can make to avoid any side effects. Thank you!

Edit: Sorry I forgot to add that on days when I go out in sunlight, I apply Some by Mi mineral sunscreen. I’ve used this sunscreen for over two years and it works for me. I just don’t use it everyday because I don’t go out in mornings and also I don’t have big windows in my house where sunlight comes in.