Here’s How Azelaic Acid Can Help With Acne, Rosacea, and Hyperpigmentation
Retinol speeds up cell turnover, which can cause peeling and redness during the initial litter stage, but it’s a proven aid for severe acne.
There is a trade-off, however. Dr. Ejikeme thinks azelaic acid pairs well with retinoids when used at different times of the day: azelaic acid as a serum in the morning and a retinoid cream at night. It’s important to note, however, that everyone’s skin is different. It’s always best to consult your dermatologist, who may recommend a stronger skin care acid or stronger topical treatment.
How does azelaic acid compare to salicylic acid?
According to Dr. Bunting, both azelaic acid and salicylic acid are excellent for treating acne-prone skin. In fact, she encourages her patients to use them in tandem. She recommends 2% salicylic acid for those with very oily skin and angry breakouts. Once a patient is out of the acute acne phase and their skin looks better, she suggests switching to azelaic acid for “future preventive action.”
What side effects could result from using azelaic acid?
“Of all the acids, azelaic acid is generally well tolerated with minimal side effects,” says Dr. Ejikeme. However, as with any exfoliating ingredient, there is the possibility that the skin may change and become red. “When starting an acid, I generally recommend going slow and starting one active at a time to prevent skin irritation,” she says.
And finally, while SPF should already be an integral part of our daily skincare regimen, Dr. Ejikeme explains that it’s even more important to apply it diligently when using azelaic acid. “All acids can make skin more sensitive to the sun,” she says.
8 Best Azelaic Acid Products for Calmer, Brighter Skin
Drunk Elephant Bouncy Brightfacial
Prepare for skin with clearer pores and a more radiant glow with this supercharged blend of salicylic acid, azelaic acid, and barrier-boosting ceramides.
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
Salicylic acid and licorice join forces with azelaic acid to unclog pores and boost luminosity.
Ordinary azelaic acid suspension 10%
With a high percentage of azelaic acid at a low price, this ice cream is a good introductory product. It does, however, contain silicone, so if blocked pores and congestion are a problem, this may not be the right formula for you.
Skinceuticals phyto a+ lightening treatment
This moisturizer is expensive, but the formula, which includes 3% azelaic acid, arbutin, niacinamide, and hydrating squalane, is ideal for treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in dark skin tones.
The Inkey List super solutions 10% azelaic acid serum
Created with rosacea in mind, this fast-absorbing serum offers a combination of anti-inflammatory azelaic acid to dial down redness and a green-tinted formula to help mask flushed skin.
Q+A Azelaic Acid Facial Serum
A dual threat of Azelaic Acid and Zinc PCA protects against stain-forming bacteria and balances oil levels.
Blue-green algae algenists
Algenist’s team of scientists harnessed the power of 100% pure, algae-derived vitamin C to join azelaic acid to create a more even skin tone.
Glow Recipe Strawberry Smooth Bha + Aha Salicylic Serum
A hit with social media skin fluctuators, use this blend of salicylic, madelic and azelac acids to decongest your skin. Hyaluronic acid also works to replace lost moisture and plump fine lines.
