Azelaic Acid

Azelaic Acid at a Glance

• Helps improve sensitivity-induced redness
• Aides in diminishing post-acne marks
• Offers gentle exfoliating properties
• Also delivers antioxidant benefits

Azelaic Acid Description

Azelaic acid is famous for its ability to lessen reddened skin and bumps. It is backed by research for significantly diminishing blemishes, while simultaneously helping fade the appearance of post-acne marks and other discolorations.

It is a type of acid known as a dicarboxylic acid derived from grains that offers gentle exfoliating properties to help unclog pores and refine skin texture. Azelaic acid is also an antioxidant.

Although azelaic acid can be derived from grains like barley, wheat, and rye, its lab-engineered form is typically used in skin care products because of its stability and effectiveness. This is a clear case where the synthetic version outperforms the natural version.

Azelaic acid is available in strengths of 10% or less over the counter, and in topical prescription products at concentrations between 15-20% where it is FDA-approved for treating acne and rosacea. In 2012 the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded azelaic acid was a safe skin care ingredient.

Azelaic Acid References