Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid produced by a yeast that lives on normal skin. It is used as a treatment for both acne and rosacea.
For patients struggling with acne, azelaic acid has the following effects:
- Antibacterial: It penetrates the skin and inhibits growth of bacteria in the hair follicle.
- Keratolytic: It helps to normalize the shedding of dead skin cells within the pore.
- Anti-inflammatory: It neutralizes free radicals and reduces the redness and swelling associated with large, inflamed pimples.
- **Helps with dark marks: It inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme crucial for the production of melanin. When a spot heals, it can leave behind a brown mark known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Azelaic acid can help to fade these marks.
Available over-the-counter in strengths up to 10% and by prescription at 15% (gel) or 20% (cream), azelaic acid is generally very well-tolerated. It is one of the few active acne ingredients considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Mild tingling, stinging, or itching upon application is common during the first few weeks but usually subsides over time.
