It’s a real secret to us that some skincare ingredients get so little attention when research has long confirmed their value. Azelaic acid is a good example. Many scientific analyses indicate that it can really make a difference in reducing dark spots. 

It helps to visibly diminish dark spots that remain after a rash as well as other (dis)colorations. It also makes the skin smoother and evens out the complexion. It is appropriate for all skin types and can even make it less sensitive. In short: you really need to learn more about azelaic acid!

Azelaic Acid 101

What is azelaic acid?

Chemically speaking, azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid (don’t worry, it’s not a ‘good’ acid).

Azelaic acid comes from seeds such as barley, wheat, and rye. For reasons of stability and efficacy, the azelaic acid employed in skincare products is especially of synthetic origin.

How does azelaic acid work?

Its impact on the skin is similar to that of a mild exfoliant without rinsing. It contributes to cleaning the pores and purifying the cutaneous surface. Azelaic acid is also an antioxidant and lowers factors that cause skin sensitivity and roughness.

Most of the studies have been conducted on products containing 15% to 20% concentrations of azelaic acid available only with a medical prescription. But lower concentrations can already make a distinction.

Also Read: 7 Incredible Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

The Benefits of Azelaic Acid Products

It is difficult to find skincare products with a concentration of 10% or less because most brands have not yet discovered the benefits of this ingredient. It is also a difficult ingredient to formulate. If the formula is not stable, the texture may become grainy, which can cause skin issues.

If you are uncertain about picking an azelaic acid treatment, know that a 10% concentration (without prescription) can already make a difference when it comes to enhancing the structure and complexion of the skin.

For persistent skin concerns, it is advisable to utilize a product with a higher concentration of azelaic acid, on medical prescription. A dermatologist will be capable to advise you.

Best Azelaic Acid Products

The Science Behind Azelaic Acid Products

Researchers have a theory about how azelaic acid performs. They think it interrupts skin disorders starting in the upper layers of the skin. Without it, these disorders could lead to skin problems such as dark spots, redness, marks left by pimples, dullness, and an augmented possibility of skin sensitivities. It would seem that azelaic acid has the capacity to nip these problems in the bud. It ‘tells’ cells in the upper layers how they should act, resulting in clearer, healthier-looking skin, regardless of age, skin type, and any skin situations.

Ongoing research on Azelaic acid has led us to the development of 10% Azelaic Acid Booster. The azelaic acid present in this product targets a wide spectrum of skin problems and it additionally contains 0.5% salicylic acid which penetrates inside the pores. The 10% Azelaic Acid Booster also contains a blend of plant extracts to soften the skin, brighten the complexion, and adenosine to make the symptoms of skin aging less observable.

It’s easy to add 10% Azelaic Acid Booster to your everyday skincare routine. You can apply it once or twice a day after cleanser, lotion, and exfoliator. Either directly on the skin or by mixing it into your serum or night cream. You can use it all over your face or only on areas where spots are present. For the day, always use a day cream with SPF 30 or more.

This product is not a gel or cream. In terms of texture, it sits between the two. This makes it appropriate for all skin types and it can be used in a mixture with AHA and BHA exfoliants. So you might be wondering how all these products fit together?

How do azelaic acid and alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) combine on the one hand and beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) on the other?

These three ingredients certainly have common points, but also some fascinating distinctions. Although azelaic acid has an exfoliating effect, when formulated correctly (as with AHAs and BHAs, pH matters), it does not exfoliate the same way or as effectively as glycolic acids, lactic (AHA), and salicylic (BHA).

On the other hand, azelaic acid has an added value compared to AHA and BHA to even out the complexion and for some other skin issues.

There’s no excuse not to use an AHA or BHA exfoliator with a product that contains azelaic acid. Quite the contrary: it may be an excellent combination to target diverse skin concerns, including pimples, uneven skin tone, and signs of skin aging.

Photo: Pexels/ Yan Krukau

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