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Acids are more popular than ever in skincare and if asked, we’re sure that most people could name a few, such as salicylic, glycolic or lactic acids. Azelaic acid is probably less well-known, but it’s equally as useful for our skin. Here’s a rundown of the facts you need to know about this naturally-occuring acid:
What is Azelaic Acid?
According to WebMD: “Azelaic acid is a chemical compound found naturally in some grains as well as in a fungus called Malassezia furfur that grows on your skin. It’s also a skin care ingredient. It comes in prescription strength, but you can also find it in some over-the-counter products. It treats common skin conditions like acne and rosacea.”
Azelaic acid is made from grains like rye, wheat, and barley. However, when used in skincare products, it is typically chemically engineered in a laboratory to ensure maximum stability and efficacy.
Who is it Good For?
Azelaic acid is a good option for dry or sensitive skin because it is milder than other alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids. It’s also an ally when acne or rosacea flares up because it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and leaves skin looking smooth. It is one of the few topicals that can be safely used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, allowing women to treat their acne or rosacea, which can get worse during this time.
Can it be Used With Other Active Ingredients?
Skincare routines rarely consist of just one or two steps these days and it’s important to know what’s in the products you’re using and whether they work nicely together. Failing to check can cause redness, irritation and even peeling skin.
Azelaic acid works well with many other ingredients, but because it exfoliates, be particularly careful if you use other acids. Limit your use to a single resurfacing ingredient and increase it gradually to avoid over-exfoliating the skin. Additionally, it is beneficial to combine azelaic acid with other ingredients that are soothing and brightening, such as antioxidants or niacinamide, which is especially useful for individuals who have patches of uneven skin tone.
Which Products Contain Azelaic Acid?
Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Liquid Peel
This product from Dermalogica is a powerful peel formulated for breakout-prone skin. With 10% AHAs and 2% BHAs, it exfoliates deep under the skin to remove dead skin cells and excess oil. As well as azelaic acid, it contains lactic and mandelic acids which even and brighten the skin, and salicylic acid which exfoliates surface skin cells, reduces inflammation and even helps to combat blackheads and breakouts.
Medik8 Blemish SOS
This rapid action treatment gel works quickly to diminish blemishes while remaining completely invisible on the skin. With its potent antibacterial properties, azelaic acid targets blemish-causing bacteria such as P. acnes, while niacinamide (otherwise known as vitamin B3) offers soothing anti-inflammatory properties which quickly reduce redness and irritation surrounding the blemish, as well as regulating sebum production to prevent blocked pores.
REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic
This tonic is one of REN Clean Skincare’s most popular products and has achieved almost cult-status since it was released. As well as azelaic acid, which helps boost radiance and even out skin tone, the gentle-yet-powerful formula contains lactic acid (AHA) and salicin (BHA). It’s perfect for daily use, brightening skin and bringing energy back to skin which has been affected by pollution, city living or just tired looking skin.
Last updated on 23/02/2023.