Azelaic Acid is a saturated dicarboxylic acid found naturally in wheat, rye, and barley. It is also a natural substance that is produced by Malassezia furfur (also known as Pityrosporum ovale), a yeast that lives on normal skin.
It is a well-tolerated versatile ingredient with many actions:
- It helps to reduce inflammation in mild to moderate acne
- Its keratolytic action exfoliates the skin, reducing the thickness of the stratum corneum
- It also helps with pigmentation as it inhibits tyrosinase activity (an enzyme that controls the production of melanin)
- It also helps to reduce inflammation in rosacea
Treatment tips that can help you incorporate Azelaic Acid into your routine
- If you’re new to Azelaic Acid, start with a lower concentration to allow your skin to adjust
- Start with a gentle cleanser neutral pH to cleanse your face
- You can either apply Azelaic Acid to specific problem areas as a spot treatment or apply it to your entire face
- Follow the instructions provided with your product for the best results
- Azelaic acid can be used in conjunction with other skincare products
Skincare products containing Azelaic Acid
Dark Marks:
Dark marks on the face may be the result of hormonal melsama or acne. Azelaic acid hinders tyrosinase, an enzyme that produces melanin, thus lessening melanin creation to fade dark spots and promote a more uniform complexion. Dr Webster recommends:
Texture and Tone Improvement:
Azelaic Acid has gentle exfoliating properties to refine skin’s texture and improve the overall appearance of the skin. Dr Webster recommends:
Oily, Acne-Prone:
Azelaic Acid offers a comprehensive approach to managing acne-prone skin. It fights acne-causing bacteria, soothes inflammation, exfoliates to unclog pores, and reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots, all while being non-drying and gentle on the skin, making it especially suitable for oily, acne-prone skin types. Dr Webster recommends:
Red, Rosacea-Prone:
Its anti-inflammatory effects diminish redness, irritation, and the appearance of small red bumps on the face. The soothing nature of Azelaic Acid eases discomfort and sensitivity. Dr Webster recommends: