Azelaic Acid: The Unsung Skincare Hero
When it comes to natural skincare, we often hear about ingredients like jojoba oil, Vitamin C, or aloe vera. But one lesser-known powerhouse ingredient deserves its time in the spotlight: azelaic acid. This multi-tasking compound has a wide range of skin benefits, from fighting acne to calming redness. I’ve had success using it for redness in my own skincare routine!
In this post, we’ll dive deep into what azelaic acid is and I’ll share some natural/non-toxic skincare options that include it!
What is Azelaic Acid?
Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid, typically derived from grains for skincare purposes. Despite the term “acid,” it’s incredibly gentle, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. I teeter on the sensitive side and can use it with no issues.
It works by exfoliating the skin on a cellular level, which helps clear out dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores—without the harshness of more aggressive exfoliants like glycolic or salicylic acid.
5 Major Benefits of Azelaic Acid for Your Skin
- Fights Acne Azelaic acid’s antibacterial properties make it an excellent acne treatment. Unlike many conventional acne treatments that can be overly drying or irritating, azelaic acid reduces inflammation while keeping the skin balanced and hydrated. It unclogs pores, calms redness, and prevents future breakouts by inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
- Evens Skin Tone and Fades Hyperpigmentation If you’ve ever struggled with dark spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (those pesky spots left behind after acne heals), or melasma, azelaic acid is your friend. It inhibits the enzyme responsible for excess melanin production, which helps to gradually lighten discoloration and even out your skin tone.
- Gentle Exfoliation for Sensitive Skin Many people with sensitive skin hesitate to use chemical exfoliants because of their potential to cause irritation. Azelaic acid is a perfect solution, as it provides gentle exfoliation without the burning or redness that often accompanies harsher acids. Its slow-release action helps promote skin cell turnover, leading to smoother, brighter skin.
- Calms Rosacea If you suffer from rosacea, you know how difficult it can be to find skincare products that don’t exacerbate the redness and irritation. Azelaic acid is a great option for rosacea-prone skin because it helps reduce swelling and bumps associated with the condition. In fact, it’s often prescribed as a topical treatment for mild to moderate rosacea.
- Antioxidant Protection Aside from its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties, azelaic acid also acts as an antioxidant. This means it helps protect your skin from environmental stressors like pollution and free radicals, which can accelerate aging and lead to dull, tired-looking skin.
How to Use Azelaic Acid in Your Skincare Routine
Azelaic acid typically comes in concentrations between 10-20% in over-the-counter products, though prescription versions can be slightly stronger. Here’s how to integrate it into your daily routine:
- Serum or Cream: After cleansing your face, apply azelaic acid in serum or cream form. It’s lightweight and absorbs easily into the skin. Follow with your moisturizer and sunscreen if using it in the morning. (If using it in a cleanser or mask, follow the same advice.)
- Consistency is Key: While it’s gentle enough for twice-daily use, it’s a good idea to start slowly, especially if you have very sensitive skin. Begin by applying it once a day and monitor how your skin reacts.
- Pair with Moisturizer: Because it’s hydrating, it pairs well with rich moisturizers, especially during the colder months when the skin tends to dry out more easily.
- Use Sunscreen: Like with all exfoliating acids, sunscreen is a must. Although azelaic acid is less likely to cause sun sensitivity than other acids, protecting your skin from UV rays helps maximize its brightening benefits.
Is It Safe for All Skin Types?
Yes! Whether you have oily, dry, acne-prone, sensitive, or combination skin, azelaic acid can fit into your routine. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it especially suitable for anyone dealing with redness, acne, or sensitive skin conditions like rosacea.
Natural Products With Azelaic Acid
Cleansers:
True Botanicals Ginger Turmeric Cleansing Balm
Masks:
Maya Chia The Refresh Mint (One of my all-time favorites!)
Alpyn Beauty Wild Huckleberry Peel
Wild Huckleberry Recovery Peel (slightly more gentle peel than the one above)
Serums:
Alpyn Beauty Vitamin C & Bearberry Instant Glow Serum
Josh Rosebrook C Complex Serum
Should You Try it?
Azelaic acid is an incredibly versatile ingredient that offers multiple benefits for a variety of skin concerns. Whether you’re looking to combat acne, reduce hyperpigmentation, calm rosacea, or just add a gentle exfoliant to your routine, this naturally derived acid could be the perfect addition to your skincare lineup.
If you haven’t tried azelaic acid yet, it’s worth giving it a shot. Your skin may just thank you!
Looking for more all-star ingredients? Check out my post on Vitamin C.
*Some affiliate links used. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
