Azelaic Acid

An active ingredient that can be used for blemish-prone skin and acne as well as rosacea? Yes, that’s right! This miracle worker is called azelaic acid, and it provides beautiful, clear skin as an ingredient in various skincare creams, gels and serums.

Before we start to list all the benefits azelaic acid has to offer for beautiful skin, here are a few quick facts about the ingredient:

Azelaic acid belongs to the chemical class of dicarboxylic acids. In order to guarantee high efficacy, tolerability and product stability, azelaic acid is produced synthetically for use in dermatology, skincare and cosmetics. Its molecular structure resembles the fatty acids of our body, which makes it particularly easy to absorb by the skin. Azelaic acid is a natural component of barley, rye and wheat.

Skin Benefits

Azelaic acid has several beneficial properties that make it very effective for the treatment of acne and rosacea.

It regulates keratinization disorders (hyperkeratosis), which are triggered by excessive growth of keratocytes (cells of the uppermost skin layer). The acid slows this overproduction in the long term.

Due to its keratolytic (dissolving of the horny outer layer of the skin) properties, azelaic acid also has natural exfoliating properties. It promotes the removal of dead skin cells, which frees clogged pores and can also reduce blackheads.

Azelaic acid is ideal for treating pimples and inflammation, because it has a positive effect on the microbial flora of the skin. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and inhibits the so-called propionibacterium acnes, which contributes to the pathogenesis of acne.

1. Cream, gel or serum - which concentration of azelaic acid is right for my skin? Concentrations from 10% to 15%, which are available over-the-counter without a prescription, are very effective for treating blemishes, acne, redness, couperose and rosacea. Be careful though, because azelaic acid products with concentrations over 10% have a higher risk of irritating the skin. Even higher concentrations (over 15%) must only be used under medical supervision, as the acid can severely irritate and damage the skin if used incorrectly.

2. If you combine our Azelaic Acid Serum 10% with the Retinol Serum or the Niacinamide Serum 10%, use the Azelaic Acid Serum in the morning and the Retinol Serum or Niacinamide Serum in the evening.

3. You will see the full effect after a continuous use of about 4-6 weeks. Azelaic acid can be used for several months or permanently as an integral part of your skincare routine.

4. Skin Purging and side effects: Since azelaic acid brings underground pimples to the surface of the skin, it can make the skin worse before it gets better (the so-called "Skin Purging"). After 2-3 weeks the skin should start to improve.

5. Use sun care (at least SPF 30) during the day.

6. Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Azelaic Acid vs. Salicylic Acid