When you think of the best anti-acne products, the first things that come to mind are probably all-stars like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinol.
While these products certainly deserve the reputation they've earned, there's another lesser-known ingredient that doesn't get enough attention for its acne-fighting benefits: azelaic acid.
"Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye," says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Stacy Chimento, MD, Riverchase Dermatology, Bay Harbor Islands, Florida. It can also be produced by yeast on the skin.
"It's often found in creams, gels or foams and can reduce inflammation, promote skin cell turnover and relieve acne." Similar to some other popular ingredients known for their many skin care benefits, azelaic acid has a variety of uses, although it is best known for its ability to fight acne and rosacea.
"As an anti-inflammatory agent, azelaic acid can reduce inflammation, make acne less visible, less red, and less irritating," says Dr. Chimento. Additionally, this ingredient can help clear pores of bacteria that can cause breakouts.
At the same time, it promotes cell turnover and slows down melanin production, which can lead to hyperpigmentation and melasma. Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind if you're considering incorporating it into your daily skin care routine.
First of all, it should be used about 15 minutes after cleansing and before moisturizing so that it can be fully absorbed into the skin. "Azelaic acid should be used morning and night, preferably in combination with a moisturizer or hydrating serum," says expert Dr. Aza Halim.
"It should also blend well into the skin, or be applied selectively to dark spots and absorbed so as not to leave any lines that make skin look patchy."
According to the instructions of Dr. With Chimento, you generally need to take azelaic acid with other medications, as it can take a while to see significant effects using the ingredient alone - but you should certainly be careful with what you mix it with.
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"While azelaic acid can be mixed with almost any product, using it with a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) like salicylic acid increases the risk of dryness and irritation," Dr. Chimento. "If you are using an over-the-counter, stronger form of azelaic acid, you should consult your dermatologist before mixing or combining it with any ingredients or products."
Anyone who uses azelaic acid may also experience side effects such as irritation, redness, flaking, peeling, and/or hives, although this does not happen to everyone. PhD. If you have sensitive skin, Halim recommends slowly introducing the ingredient into your daily routine (start using it a few times a week, then increase to daily use).
However, if you notice any of the above side effects, you should stop using it immediately. If you're ready to make a change, read on to learn about some azelaic acid-rich products worth adding to your diet.
1. Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Enhancer: Azelaic acid isn't the only effective ingredient in this anti-acne product. It also contains salicylic acid and licorice root, which clear acne-causing bacteria from the skin while balancing skin texture and fading blemishes caused by blemishes.
2. Commonly used azelaic acid suspension 10%: Imagine adding four additional products to your skin care routine for less than $10 and experiencing the benefits of each product. That's how we describe the use of this versatile, affordable product that reduces the appearance of blemishes, evens out skin tone and nourishes skin with antioxidants.
3. FaceTheory Lumizela Azelaic Acid Serum A10: This botanical serum contains 10% azelaic acid, which clears bacteria from the skin and reduces blemishes. Additionally, ingredients like oatmeal and aloe vera can minimize the irritation and appearance or swelling caused by rosacea.
4. Topical sodium azelate 10%: This product uses azelaic acid along with other key ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide to minimize congestion, redness, and discoloration while reducing excess oil production.
5. Type Oil Control Serum 10% Azelaic Acid: This lightweight serum can be massaged into your skin during your morning and evening skincare routine to reduce excess oil production. According to some reviews, it is also effective as a topical treatment.
6.PCA SKIN Pigment Gel: This gel serum contains a combination of azelaic acid, lactic acid, and kojic acid to treat hyperpigmentation and brighten skin by slowing melanin production.
7.Dr. Brandt Dark Spot No More Triple Acid Spot Minimizing Concentrate Cleansing your skin doesn't have to come at the expense of moisture. Enriched with azelaic acid and salicylic acid, this formula reduces the appearance of acne and prevents future breakouts without drying out the skin.