Azelaic Acid for Anti-Aging: Benefits, How to Use, Products

What is Azelaic Acid?

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring mild organic acid that is produced by a yeast that lives on normal skin. It is a saturated dicarboxylic acid and has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Azelaic acid is available in several over-the-counter skin care products and prescription medications for treating acne, rosacea and skin discoloration.

Benefits of Azelaic Acid for the Skin

Here are some of the top benefits of using azelaic acid for the skin:

• Reduces inflammation caused by acne and rosacea
• Helps kill acne causing bacteria on the skin
• Helps regulate skin cell production and turnover
• Helps fade dark spots and improve uneven skin tone
• Helps minimize fine lines and wrinkles
• Improves skin texture and appearance
• Has antioxidant properties to protect the skin

How Does Azelaic Acid Work?

Azelaic acid works in several ways to improve common skin concerns like acne, rosacea and signs of aging:

• It has antimicrobial properties that help kill acne causing bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes on the skin.
• It helps reduce inflammation that leads to redness, swelling and pain from acne and rosacea.
• It helps normalize skin cell production and turnover, preventing pores from getting clogged which reduces breakouts.
• It helps fade dark spots and discoloration by inhibiting melanin synthesis and improving cell turnover.
• It acts as a mild exfoliant to improve skin texture and smoothness.
• It has antioxidant properties that protect the skin against environmental damage.

Using Azelaic Acid for Anti-Aging Benefits

As we age, skin cell turnover slows down significantly. Dead skin cells accumulate on the surface leading to a dull and uneven complexion. Azelaic acid helps speed up this turnover of surface skin cells. This evens out skin tone, restores radiance and reduces visible signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.

Reduces Appearance of Wrinkles

Azelaic acid improves collagen production in the skin, which strengthens the structural support matrix of the skin. This results in a plumper, smoother skin with reduced wrinkles and fine lines. Azelaic acid also has antioxidant properties which help minimize free radical damage that can degrade collagen.

Fades Age Spots and Discoloration

Dark spots and skin discoloration are some of the most visible signs of aging skin. Acne scars, sun damage and uneven skin tone all make the skin appear older. Azelaic acid inhibits melanin synthesis which helps lighten pigmented areas and age spots. Its exfoliating properties remove the topmost layer of pigmented skin to reveal fresher and brighter skin.

Improves Skin Texture

Azelaic acid is a mild exfoliant that removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This continuous exfoliation evens out skin texture, reduces enlarged pores and refines the overall look of the skin. Azelaic acid also regulates keratinization which is the excessive production of keratinocytes or surface skin cells.

How to Use Azelaic Acid for Anti-Aging

Here are some tips on using azelaic acid to reduce the visible signs of aging for a more youthful complexion:

• Start using azelaic acid in your late 20s or early 30s as part of your preventative anti-aging routine.
• Apply a thin layer of azelaic acid gel or cream on clean, dry skin in the morning and/or evening.
• Use a formulation with 15-20% azelaic acid concentration ideally.
• Focus on areas with wrinkles, dark spots and uneven texture like cheeks, forehead, around mouth and eyes.
• Use azelaic acid consistently for at least 6-8 weeks to see results.
• Always follow up with a moisturizer as azelaic acid can be drying.
• Use a broad spectrum sunscreen during the daytime when using azelaic acid.

Azelaic Acid Anti-Aging Products

Here are some top azelaic acid products that can be used for smoothing fine lines, evening out skin tone and restoring a youthful glow:

• The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% - Budget friendly serum with a high concentration of azelaic acid.
• Paula's Choice Azelaic Acid Booster - Lightweight fluid that can be added to moisturizers.
• Gigi Bioplasma Azelaic Cream 15% - Thicker cream specifically formulated for anti-aging.
• Cos De Baha Azelaic Acid Serum - Hydrating serum with 10% azelaic acid.
• CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum - Combination of retinol and azelaic acid for anti-aging.
• First Aid Beauty FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum 0.25% - Serum with retinol and azelaic acid.

Side Effects and Considerations

When used correctly, azelaic acid is generally well-tolerated. However, there are some things to keep in mind when using it:

• It may cause mild stinging, tingling, burning or itching when first used. Start with a lower concentration and build up tolerance.
• It can cause dryness, peeling, redness or irritation in some people. Reduce frequency of use if this happens.
• Avoid using azelaic acid at the same time as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide or vitamin C as this can worsen irritation.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should check with their doctor before using azelaic acid.
• Discontinue use if you experience severe side effects and consult a dermatologist.

The Takeaway

Azelaic acid is an effective multi-tasking ingredient that offers a variety of anti-aging benefits for the skin. It evens out skin tone, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, refines skin texture and restores radiance. Azelaic acid is gentle enough for long term daily use. When used consistently, it can transform dull, uneven and pigmented mature skin into a fresher, smoother and younger looking complexion.

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.