Exploring the Benefits of Azelaic Acid for Skin
Azelaic acid has become a rising star ingredient in skin care. This versatile compound provides a multitude of benefits that make it appealing for a wide range of skin types and concerns.
The Ordinary offers several azelaic acid formulations at affordable prices. Their products make it easy to incorporate this powerhouse ingredient into your routine.
Keep reading to learn what azelaic acid is, what it does for skin, and how to use The Ordinary's azelaic acid lineup to target your specific skin goals.
What is Azelaic Acid?
Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley. It can also be produced synthetically from other organic compounds.
As an ingredient in skin care, azelaic acid is considered:
- Antibacterial - reduces acne bacteria
- Anti-inflammatory - calms redness and swelling
- Antioxidant - protects from environmental damage
- Skin brightening - fades dark spots and discoloration
These multifunctional properties make azelaic acid useful for treating several skin concerns.
Azelaic Acid Benefits for Skin
Here's an overview of the research-backed benefits of using azelaic acid on skin:
- Improves acne - Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities help treat mild to moderate acne.
- Fades hyperpigmentation - Azelaic acid inhibits melanin production to brighten overall complexion and reduce dark spots.
- Minimizes rosacea - Reduces facial redness and inflammation from rosacea.
- Evens skin texture - Exfoliates dead skin cells and clears pores to smooth roughness.
- Protects skin barrier - Maintains healthy moisture levels and skin integrity against damage.
These broad spectrum advantages make azelaic acid useful for a wide range of skin types and concerns.
Azelaic Acid Formulations from The Ordinary
The Ordinary provides access to prescription-strength azelaic acid at non-prescription prices. They offer three azelaic acid formulations:
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
This is a lightweight cream-gel with a 10% concentration of high purity azelaic acid. It contains no additional active ingredients.
The suspension format helps maximize penetration. Its texture smoothes easily onto skin.
This formula works best for normal to oily skin types looking to minimize acne and post-acne marks. It provides antibacterial and skin-brightening benefits.
Azelaic Acid Suspension 15%
As the name implies, this formula provides an even stronger 15% azelaic acid concentration.
It has an ultra-lightweight fluid texture well-suited to oilier skin. The high azelaic acid concentration makes it ideal for targeting breakouts and acne-related hyperpigmentation.
Azelaic Acid Gel 10%
Formulated specifically for dry and sensitive skin types, this gel moisturizes as it delivers 10% high purity azelaic acid into skin.
The formula includes hydrating comedogenic components like polysorbates and leucine to prevent dryness and irritation. It simultaneously brightens while restoring moisture.
This gentler azelaic acid gel is optimal for those with rosacea, dryness or sensitive skin aiming for a more even and radiant complexion.
How to Use The Ordinary's Azelaic Acid Products
Using azelaic acid properly is key to maximizing benefits. Here are some best practices for application:
Start Slowly
Begin by applying azelaic acid just 2-3 times per week, gradually increasing frequency based on skin's tolerance. Using too much too soon may cause irritation.
Apply After Water-Based Products
Apply serums, toners or essences containing water-based ingredients first. Let them absorb before applying the anhydrous azelaic acid formulas.
Use a Small Amount
A little goes a long way. Use a pea-sized amount smoothed between fingertips before massaging into skin.
Avoid Eyes, Lips and Mouth
Keep azelaic acid away from the delicate eye, lip and mouth areas. Contact could cause irritation and redness.
Follow with Moisturizer
Always pair with a hydrating moisturizer, particularly if you have dry or sensitive skin. This helps prevent dryness, peeling and irritation.
Limit to Once Daily
Using azelaic acid more than once a day is rarely necessary and may cause excessive dryness. Stick to once daily in the PM.
Who Should Use Azelaic Acid?
Here are some of the key skin types and concerns that may benefit from adding azelaic acid into their routines:
Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
The potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of azelaic acid make it ideal for clearing up mild to moderate acne. It helps kill p.acnes bacteria and reduce related redness and swelling.
Those with Post-Acne Marks
By inhibiting melanin synthesis, azelaic acid fades the dark spots left behind after acne heals. With continued use, it promotes a brighter and more even complexion.
Rosacea Sufferers
Redness, swelling and acne-like breakouts are common rosacea symptoms azelaic acid can help minimize. It also repairs compromised skin barriers.
Hyperpigmentation and Melasma
For reducing dark spots, age spots, melasma and overall dullness, azelaic acid is an effective and gentler alternative to harsher bleaching agents.
Anti-Aging
Azelaic acid stimulates collagen production and its antioxidant properties help slow premature aging. It retexturizes skin and reduces signs of photodamage.
Complementary Ingredients to Use with Azelaic Acid
While azelaic acid works well on its own, combining it with other active ingredients can maximize results for specific skin goals:
Niacinamide
This hydrating antioxidant minimizes pore appearance and improves skin barrier health when paired with azelaic acid.
Salicylic Acid
For acne-prone skin, salicylic acid's exfoliating effect complements azelaic acid's antibacterial abilities.
Alpha Arbutin
This natural skin brightener boosts azelaic acid's ability to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hydrating formulas with hyaluronic acid counteract azelaic acid's drying effects and promote a dewy glow.
Squalane Oil
Nutrient-rich squalane replenishes moisture and fortifies the skin barrier weakened by rosacea.
Caffeine
Caffeine's antioxidant properties create a power duo when combined with azelaic acid for anti-aging effects.
Side Effects and Precautions When Using Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is generally well-tolerated, but there are some things to keep in mind when incorporating it into your regimen:
- Redness, irritation, dryness - Start slowly and discontinue if persists.
- Photosensitivity - Wear sunscreen when exposed to sunlight.
- Pregnancy - Limited data exists; check with your doctor first.
- Skin of color - May cause temporary lightening; use lowest effective percentage first.
To reduce risk of side effects, always do a patch test before applying azelaic acid all over your face. Adjust usage frequency and volume based on your skin's feedback.
The Ordinary's Azelaic Acid Options
The Ordinary makes prescription-level azelaic acid accessible at consumer prices. Their Suspension 10%, Suspension 15% and Gel 10% formulas cater to different skin needs.
Consider adding azelaic acid into your regimen if you want to:
- Clear up breakouts and acne
- Fade stubborn dark spots and discoloration
- Soothe redness and inflammation
- Refine skin texture and reduce signs of aging
Use The Ordinary's azelaic acid as directed for your particular skin goals. With consistent application, you can reveal brighter, healthier and more even-toned skin.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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