I just started using it and im crossing my fingers that i wont get flaky and purge again. Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains such as barley, wheat, and rye. All forms have the same basic instructions for use:Some people will need to apply the medication twice per day, but this will vary according to a doctor’s instructions.It also prevents what’s known as melanin synthesis, the ability of your skin to produce pigments that can vary your skin’s tone.If you’ve tried other topical medications to help with scarring or blemishes that’re slow to heal, azelaic acid might help. The acid also has some side effects, such as skin burning, dryness, and peeling. This means that while azelaic acid is less likely to irritate your skin, it also has to be used consistently and given time to take effect.Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid that’s milder than some more popular acids used to treat acne. All rights reserved. In the study of comedonal acne, 20% azelaic acid cream was equally effective as 0.05% tretinoin cream in reducing the number of comedones and with respect to overall response. Since it can thin your skin, your skin is more sensitive and prone to Azelaic acid isn’t for everyone. GHS OVERVIEW Azelaic Acid. Yes, prescription acne ingredients like azelaic acid work by targeting clogged pores, including those brewing deep below the surface. If you're using it to address pigmentation concerns, "some people start seeing a benefit within a week," he says.It's a good idea to stay away from harsh or potentially irritating products while your skin adjusts to azelaic acid, and it's always good to limit the amount of exfoliating products you're using at one time. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. You might see anything from small, superficial bumps to deep, inflamed pimples. Prescription ingredients like tretinoin and azelaic acid work partly by unclogging pores, but this can mean an adjustment period for the skin, when you may see “initial breakouts” or “purging.” The pores are getting cleared out, and the skin cells are sloughing off like they should, but this can lead to these temporary breakouts.About 20-25% of patients experience purging. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. It’s always important to wear sunscreen when you go outside, but be especially mindful to wear SPF products when you’re using azelaic acid. Azelaic acid is not a well known skincare ingredient, but it shouldn’t be kept a secret. A look at 50 different reddit skincare routines that cleared people's acne, and a scientific analysis for why they worked! However, azelaic acid cream was better tolerated, causing fewer local side effects than the topical retinoid. These products are usually pretty cost-effective and "azelaic acid is one of the safest of the medicines you could try," he says—so the potential benefits usually outweigh the risks.Acids, especially those used to treat acne, tend to be drying and harsh, but most people—even those with sensitive skin or rosacea—are able to use azelaic acid with minimal problems, Dr. Zampella says. In the study of comedonal acne, 20% azelaic acid cream was equally effective as 0.05% tretinoin cream in reducing the number of comedones and with respect to overall response. Since it can thin your skin, your skin is more sensitive and prone to Azelaic acid isn’t for everyone. If you’ve just started a new formula and you feel like you’re seeing more breakouts, don't worry—this can be normal, and we're here to help. As with any medication, follow the dosing and application directions from your doctor closely. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.Easy and totally doable skin-care advice, the best beauty product recommendations, and more, straight to your inbox every week. I'm using azelaic acid 15% gel right now and I noticed more breakouts the past 2-3 weeks. Oh, and it may also treat perioral dermatitis. According to older research, azelaic acid cream may be as effective as While these other acids are strong enough to be used on their own in chemical peels, azelaic acid isn’t. The acid also has some side effects, such as skin burning, dryness, and peeling. While the results of treatment with azelaic acid might not be obvious right away, there is research that points to this ingredient as effective.Acne, uneven skin tone, rosacea, and inflammatory skin conditions have all been shown to be effectively treated with azelaic acid.