Everything you need to know about Azelaic acid

By Merna Al Murady | Pharmacologist

28 March 2023

Skincare

Have you heard about azelaic acid? This acid has, for inexplicable reasons, been a bit under the radar. Read more about it here.

You are probably already familiar with hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid, but have you heard of azelaic acid? Surely not, because for inexplicable reasons, azelaic acid is a bit of an overlooked player when it comes to dermatological skin care. This is a shame, as azelaic acid has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to acne and inflammation. In the following you can read more about azelaic acid and find out why you should integrate the acid into your skin care routine.

Benefits

Reduces inflammation

Reduces hyperpigmentation

Gives a smoother and softer skin

Fights acne

What is azelaic acid?

Azelaic acid is a mild exfoliating acid that can be used for skin care. In large concentrations (15-20%), azelaic acid is used as a medicine to treat rosacea and acne, but in smaller concentrations the acid can also be used in over-the-counter skin care. You can therefore easily purchase skin care that contains low concentrations of azelaic acid over the counter and this can be an advantage when you want to keep acne and inflammation down on a daily basis.

How does azelaic acid work?

Azelaic acid acts as a leave-on exfoliator that cleans the skin's surface. Azelaic acid is one of the milder acids that can be used for all skin types. Azelaic acid has an antioxidant effect, which helps counteract factors that can cause hypersensitivity and redness on the skin. The acid cleans clogged pores and therefore helps refine the skin's surface. Azelaic acid therefore has both a nurturing/treating as well as a preventive effect.

Who is azelaic acid suitable for?

Azelaic acid is good for those who suffer from rosacea and/or acne, and for those who want a smoother skin surface.

Application

When using products with azelaic acid, it is important that you gradually increase the dose. If you have delicate or sensitive skin, test the product on a limited area of skin to start with. Once your skin is used to the product, you can use azelaic acid daily.

Good to know

Azelaic acid is one of the milder acids, which is why few experience discomfort when using it. However, we are still dealing with an acid, which is why you may risk experiencing a little skin irritation at start-up.

There are quite a few different types of products with azelaic acid. The acid can be a bit difficult to emulsify with other ingredients and therefore the texture of some products can appear gritty. This need not have any effect on the effect of azelaic acid.