Azelaic Acid: The Lesser-known Acne Fighting Agent
Azelaic Acid: The Lesser-known Acne Fighting Agent
Azelaic Acid: The Lesser-known Acne Fighting Agent
Shammi Mondal
Let’s be honest, when you think of acne-fighting actives azelaic acid might not be the first thing that comes to your head, perhaps not even the last one. There are chances of you are hearing about it for the first time.
We dive deep to learn more about this active with Dr Varshini Reddy, dermatologist and founder of The Glow Clinic.
What is Azelaic acid?
Theoretically, Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid, which penetrates deep withing the pores and gently exfoliates the skin. “It is an anti-inflammatory ingredient derived from a fungus called Malassezia furfur and can also be found in cereals, wheat, barley etc,” says Dr Varshini. It comes in different concentrations, beginning from 10% which goes up to 20%
What does it do for your skin?
Azelaic acid is a versatile skincare ingredient that takes care of several skin concerns, especially acne and inflammation.
“It’s an excellent anti-microbial which works against P. acnes: the bacteria that leads to acne, and inflamed skin” says Dr Varshini
It is also a keratolytic and comedolytic which means, it gently breaks down dead skin cells and removes them, which prevents the formation of blemishes and dark spots reducing hyperpigmentation.
“It’s anti-inflammatory nature gently tackles skin issues like rosacea and hyper-sensitive skin,” says Dr Varshini.
How can you begin using it?
No, you do not have on give up on your current favourite niacinamide or vitamin C serum to incorporate azelaic acid in your routine as the ingredient goes well with most formulations.
“It works beautifully in a combination with salicylic acid and niacinamide. It is also very helpful for body acne and comes in spray formulation for the same,” says Dr Varshini.
Azelaic acid comes in several skincare formulations, so pick up a serum, moisturiser, cleanser or mist.
“I love using this ingredient in my practise as it’s one of those ingredients that is very very gentle on the skin,” says Dr Varshini.
And the best part is..
Off all the multifaceted and beneficial properties of azelaic acid, the most striking one remains the fact that it can be used by anyone. Yes, you heard right!
“Azelaic acid is a stable ingredient and can be used by any age group and every skin type. There are no precautions, in fact it is safe to use by women who’re pregnant and breast feeding,” says Dr Varshini.