Benefits: Anti-inflammatory.
Categories: Acne, Redness, Uneven Skin Tone or Hyperpigmentation.
Skin Types: All skin types.
Azelaic acid is a multi-functional powerhouse ingredient that helps even out the skin tone while visibly reducing blemishes and clearing up impurities. It is found in several grains and is produced naturally by the yeast that lives normally on our skin. The formula contains a very high 10% concentration of pure Azelaic acid in a lightweight cream-gel that suits all skin types, including highly sensitive skin.
The highest permitted concentration of Azelaic acid in over-the-counter skincare is 10%. However, for the treatment of severe acne and vitiligo, doctors can prescribe a stronger 20% variant, often marketed under the name "Skinoren".
Benefits of Azelaic Acid
- Acne: Azelaic acid helps decrease inflammation and redness associated with acne by fighting off bacteria and reducing clogged pores. It can also effectively fade acne scars over time.
- Rosacea: For rosacea, Azelaic acid works as a potent anti-inflammatory, actively diminishing redness and irritation. It is particularly effective for treating pustular rosacea, where small bumps and pimples are common.
- Hyperpigmentation: Azelaic acid inhibits the production of melanin, which can significantly reduce dark spots and an uneven skin tone, especially for conditions like melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
How to Use Azelaic Acid
It is incredibly easy to start using Azelaic acid in your skincare routine. Here is how:
- Application: Apply Azelaic acid evenly over your entire face, or use it as a targeted spot treatment on specific areas (e.g., blemishes or uneven skin tone).
- Frequency: Start by using the product every other day to let your skin adjust. If no irritation occurs, you can comfortably increase to daily use.
- Timing: Azelaic acid can be used both morning and evening. However, many prefer applying it at night, as it allows the skin to rest and repair while you sleep. If you choose to use it in the morning, always follow up with a moisturizing cream containing sun protection (minimum SPF 30).
- Combine Azelaic acid: Azelaic acid pairs beautifully with Niacinamide to calm the skin and fortify the skin barrier, Hyaluronic Acid to maintain deep moisture and prevent dryness, and sunscreen to shield the skin from UV rays and maximize the treatment's results.
FAQ
Can you combine Azelaic acid with Vitamin C?
Yes, Azelaic acid and Vitamin C work exceptionally well together. They complement each other by attacking hyperpigmentation from different angles to brighten and even out the skin tone. The combination can actively accelerate your results.
What is the difference between Azelaic acid and AHA / BHA?
Azelaic acid, AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), and BHA (beta hydroxy acid) share some similarities, but here is what sets them apart:
- Exfoliation: Just like AHA and BHA, Azelaic acid can provide a mild exfoliating effect on the skin when formulated correctly. However, it is not quite as potent an exfoliant as Glycolic Acid (AHA) or Salicylic Acid (BHA).
- Unique properties: Azelaic acid is particularly powerful at improving an uneven skin tone and treating specific conditions, like redness and dark patches, where it frequently outperforms both AHA and BHA.
- Combining acids: This combination can be a perfect solution for managing multiple skin concerns at once, such as texture, uneven tone, and signs of aging. By using them toge