active
Azelaic Acid
Watch if sensitive·Strong evidence
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid used to even tone and calm breakout-prone or redness-prone skin, also available at higher strengths by prescription. It is well tolerated overall, though mild tingling or dryness can occur when starting use.
Worth knowing
- Can irritate, especially left on
Questions
- What does azelaic acid do for skin?
- Azelaic acid is used to even skin tone and calm breakout-prone or redness-prone skin. It works gradually and is available at higher strengths as a prescription medication, though lower cosmetic concentrations are also effective for many people.
- Can I use azelaic acid with other actives?
- Azelaic acid can be combined with other skincare actives, but start conservatively to assess tolerance. Mild tingling or dryness can occur when starting use, so avoid layering multiple irritating ingredients at once if you have sensitive skin.
Products with Azelaic Acid
- 94Dr.GR.E.D Blemish Soothing Up Moisture Sunscreen
- 93Josh RosebrookC Complex Serum
- 89The OrdinaryAzelaic Acid Suspension 10%
- 89DermaticaClarifying Azelaic Acid 20% Cream
- 87TopicalsFaded (Original Formula)
- 87True BotanicalsGinger Turmeric Cleansing Balm
- 84TopicalsFaded Brightening Clearing Serum
- 83Paula's Choice10% Azelaic Acid Booster
- 80The OrdinaryAzelaic Suspension 10%
- 80TULAKeep It Clear Acne Foam Cleanser
- 79VT CosmeticsAZ Care Cleansing Oil
In our guides
- IngredientsAHA, BHA, PHA: Choosing an Exfoliating Acid Without Wrecking Your Skin
- GuidesFungal acne (malassezia): the ingredients to skip and why
- IngredientsDark spots and hyperpigmentation: which ingredients have the evidence
- GuidesSkincare while pregnant: what people commonly avoid, and why to ask your doctor
References
This dossier covers safety and concern. For what the efficacy evidence says about Azelaic Acid, see SerumTruth ↗, our sister site.
Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.