Authored by: Arthur Ghochikyan, M.D.
Functions
Exfoliator
Soothing
Anti-acne
Buffering
Azelaic acid is another effective ingredient for oily or problem skin, or for skin with rosacea. It helps to prevent inflammation and its marks, soothes, and relieves redness and swelling. Azelaic acid is obtained from cereals.
It's well-studied, and research has shown it works in several ways: cleans pores, evens skin texture, brightens post-acne areas, and helps reduce skin sensitivity. In addition, it is a mild exfoliator that removes old or dead cells from the skin surface and helps combat hyperkeratosis.
Also note that the working concentration of azelaic acid is 10% (available without a prescription). Tocopherol, which is part of the ingredient, protects lipid molecules from damage, reduces the negative effect of ultraviolet radiation on skin cells, and promotes skin recovery and healing.
Zinc oxide in the composition has a drying and anti-inflammatory effect, normalizes the skin's trace element balance, and prevents hyperkeratosis. Azelaic Acid slows down the formation of age spots and is recommended for problem skin prone to rashes, inflammation, and acne.
References
Final report of the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel on the safety assessment of dicarboxylic acids, salts, and esters
Author(s):
Fiume MM, Heldreth B, Bergfeld WF, Belsito DV, Hill RA, Klaassen CD, Liebler D, Marks JG, Shank RC, Slaga TJ, Snyder PW, Andersen FA
DOI:
10.1177/1091581812447203
Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris
Author(s):
Reynolds RV, Yeung H, Cheng CE, Cook-Bolden F, Desai SR, Druby KM, Freeman EE, Keri JE, Stein Gold LF, Tan JKL, Tollefson MM, Weiss JS, Wu PA, Zaenglein AL, Han JM, Barbieri JS
DOI:
10.1016/j.jaad.2023.12.017
A systematic review to evaluate the efficacy of azelaic acid in the management of acne, rosacea, melasma and skin aging
Author(s):
King S, Campbell J, Rowe R, Daly ML, Moncrieff G, Maybury C
Azelaic Acid
Author(s):
Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®)
Journal:
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; 2006
Effects of 15% Azelaic Acid Gel in the Management of Post-Inflammatory Erythema and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Acne Vulgaris
Author(s):
Shucheng H, Zhou X, Du D, Li J, Yu C, Jiang X
DOI:
10.1007/s13555-024-01176-2
The multiple uses of azelaic acid in dermatology: mechanism of action, preparations, and potential therapeutic applications
Author(s):
Sauer N, Oślizło M, Brzostek M, Wolska J, Lubaszka K, Karłowicz-Bodalska K
DOI:
10.5114/ada.2023.133955
