We all know glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and even lactic acid. But what exactly do you know about azelaic acid? An excellent skincare ingredient that combats a range of skin problems!
Azelaic acid is a dermatologist's favorite ingredient, known for its gentleness and versatility. While primarily preferred for its ability to lighten the skin, this acid offers many more benefits beyond that.
What is Azelaic Acid?
Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid, naturally produced in the skin but can also be created in the lab. It is a natural acid derived from grains such as wheat, barley, and rye.
What are the benefits of azelaic acid?
Azelaic acid is a multifunctional active ingredient that treats breakouts and inflammation. It deeply penetrates the epidermis, clearing pores of dead cells and bacteria that cause irritation or acne breakouts.
- Azelaic acid is a versatile and multi-active ingredient that treats multiple skin problems such as acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.
- It reduces inflammation and soothes irritation while reducing the redness caused by it.
- Fights acne: It has antibacterial properties that help treat acne breakouts and prevent future breakouts.
- Treats rosacea and helps unclog pores.
- Gently exfoliates. It penetrates deep into the pores, removing dead skin cells that cause dullness and clogged pores.
- Evens out skin tone: It inhibits tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin synthesis and hyperpigmentation. It is also effective for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne, as well as melasma.
- It is a powerful antioxidant: it maintains long-term skin health, helping to prevent skin damage caused by free radicals.
Ingredient Facts:
Ingredient Type:
Acid - Exfoliant
Main Benefits:
Fights acne, treats rosacea, reduces hyperpigmentation, and removes dead skin cells.
Which skin types is it suitable for?
It is suitable for all skin types, but ideal for those with acne-prone skin, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.
How often and how do we incorporate it into our skincare routine?
It is safe to use it twice a day, morning and evening, on clean, dry skin. Or once every other day for individuals with sensitive skin.
Which other active ingredients can you combine it with?
It can be combined with Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA - glycolic or lactic), Beta-hydroxy acid (BHA - salicylic acid), Niacinamide, Bakuchiol, Hyaluronic acid, and Retinol.
Do not combine with:
Azelaic acid is safe to use in combination with most, if not all, ingredients.
How long does it take to see results from azelaic acid?
After 8-12 weeks of frequent use, there are visible results from Azelaic Acid, but this can vary from person to person and skin to skin.
Does it cause photosensitivity?
Azelaic acid does not increase skin's sensitivity to the sun, making this active ingredient safe for morning use. However, whether you use azelaic acid or not, we recommend applying a sunscreen with SPF30 or SPF50 daily to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
