Azelaic Acid
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in cereal grains. Multi-functional: anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and tyrosinase-inhibiting. One of the few actives safe for pregnancy and rosacea.
Inhibits mitochondrial oxidoreductase activity in hyperactive melanocytes, reduces C. acnes, and dampens kallikrein-5 (relevant in rosacea).
- Supports clearer skin
- Reduces redness and PIH
- Soothes rosacea-prone skin
- Pregnancy-safe
- Multi-targets acne and pigmentation
What the evidence supports.
- All skin types
- Sensitive
- Rosacea-prone
No notable contraindications reported.
Mid-routine serum or treatment step.
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 10%–20%
Year-round.
Found naturally in wheat, rye, barley.
- Persistent papules + pigmentation overlap
Triple-threat for the rosacea-prone client with acne + pigmentation. Available OTC up to 10%, prescription at 15–20%.
- Fitton & Goa 1991, 20% AzA cream matched 4% hydroquinone for melasma
- Draelos et al. 2018, 15% AzA improved rosacea papules and erythema
The research behind Azelaic Acid.
Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.
International Journal of Dermatology, 1991
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2020
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2020
Journal of Advanced Research, 2015
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
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3 studies from the Intelligence Vault that discuss Azelaic Acid.
- systematic review · Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and LeprologyAzelaic acid 20% cream and azelaic acid 15% gel in the management of melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- systematic review · Journal of the American Academy of DermatologyPathogenesis and treatment of rosacea: an updated review
- expert opinion · CutisFitzpatrick skin type and treatment response: implications for personalized dermatology