top of page
Azelaic acid in cosmetics

INCI: Azelaic acid
Azelaic acid is an organic compound from the group of dicarboxylic acids with proven antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and slightly exfoliating properties.
It is recommended for people with rosacea and acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis and discoloration. The action of the acid inhibits the growth of Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria, which cause acne lesions. It also inhibits the growth and excessive activity of melanocytes. Discoloration is treated by inhibiting DNA synthesis and cellular respiration of melanocytes.

Products with azelaic acid allow for effective treatments in:

  •   rosacea – anti-inflammatory effect

  •   inflammation – bactericidal properties

  •   anti-aging – antioxidant effect (elimination of free radicals)

  •   sebum regulation – keratolytic effect (reduced formation of sebaceous plugs)
  •   discolorations (chloasma, melasma) - as a tyrosinase inhibitor, it inhibits the activity of the tyrosinase enzyme responsible for the formation of discolorations on the skin surface

  •  inflammation of hair follicles


Azelaic acid is a year-round product, but when using acid treatments, it is always recommended to use high SPF protection.
Azelaic acid - an ingredient of many dermocosmetics

Azelaic acid in cosmetics – necessary information

Azelaic acid is produced by yeast that is part of the skin microflora. Currently, it is used to produce products such as facial dermocosmetics and natural cosmetics, as well as during treatments in beauty and dermatology salons.

Characteristics of azelaic acid

Facial cosmetics sets available on the market often contain azelaic acid. This compound has many valuable properties responsible for improving the appearance of the skin in a short time. Therefore, in order to properly match the type of cosmetic or treatment to your needs, it is worth knowing the characteristics of the substance described.
Before purchasing the product, you need to find out how azelaic acid may affect a given skin type. The effects depend on several factors, including: depending on the condition and needs of the skin, as well as the concentration of substances in the cosmetic.
For example: a cream with 7% azelaic acid will work as a support in the treatment of rosacea and inflammation in psoriatic skin. In addition, azelaic acid has bactericidal properties.

 

Who is azelaic acid a good choice for? Indications

 

Some acids available on the market can only be used for certain skin phototypes, but azelaic acid is recommended regardless of the pigment or reaction to ultraviolet radiation. It is perfect for the care of most skin types, both problematic and those requiring only color adjustment or cleansing.
Cream with azelaic acid is especially recommended for people struggling with oily skin, prone to irritation, atopic or erythema. It is also suitable for combination skin with papulopustular acne. Dermocosmetics for acne-prone skin, thanks to the content of the described compound, have antibacterial properties and limit the activity of the glands.
The acid is also appreciated by people struggling with facial discoloration and uneven skin tone. This substance inhibits the tyrosinase enzyme, and thus smoothes the skin, evens out wrinkles and restores radiance.

For whom is azelaic acid not a good choice? Contraindications

 

If you have skin hypersensitivity or an allergy to azelaic acid, the effects of using the substance may be counterproductive. This also applies to people with a dark phototype - in this case, you should pay special attention to the place where the product is applied to prevent whitening or changes in skin tone.
It is worth consulting a specialist before using a serum with a high concentration of azelaic acid at home and performing care treatments with other acids.

 

How to use azelaic acid?

Both dermocosmetics for acne with azelaic acid and skin care products should be used according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Creams, unless otherwise recommended, should be applied in the morning and evening, alternating with a moisturizer. After half a year of use, you should take a break of several weeks.
 

Cosmetics with azelaic acid
Cosmetics with azelaic acid are a perfect solution for problematic skin. However, you must remember that moderation is the most important thing. Otherwise, there is a risk of undesirable side effects such as itching or burning. If unusual, disturbing symptoms appear, you should immediately contact a specialist.

Products with azelaic acid

bottom of page