How to Use Azelaic Acid for Rosacea?
If you have skin issues like rosacea, then it’s natural to be cautious about using any old ingredient in your daily skincare routine. The beauty of azelaic acid is that it has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can reduce redness and soothe the skin. It is able to reach the lower layers and prevent future redness and other levels of rosacea severity. With that in mind, let’s explore how to use azelaic acid for rosacea.
How long does it take for azelaic acid to work for rosacea?
Before we discuss how long does azelaic acid take to work for rosacea, let me first cover what azelaic acid is and how it benefits the skin.
Azelaic Acid
The chemical name for azelaic acid is dicarboxylic acid, and it is a natural extract from barley, wheat, and rye. Thanks to modern technology, keeping this powerful yet gentle acid at effective and stable levels has become the norm, and you can expect to see this clever ingredient used more and more frequently in various skincare formulas.
Often mistakenly considered part of the alpha hydroxy acid group, azelaic acid offers the same exfoliating and purifying benefits of other acids while being gentle on the skin and acting as a powerful antioxidant. It is typically found in concentrations between 15% and 20%, although lower percentages have been known to produce impressive results on the skin. However, if you suffer from a skin condition such as rosacea, it is important to find the right formula to ensure there are no signs of irritation or sensitivity.
Key Benefits of Azelaic Acid
Fights breakouts, including pimples, blackheads, and frequent breakouts
Reduces the appearance and severity of rosacea
Exfoliates to remove dead skin cell buildup for a brighter complexion
Reduces signs of dark spots and hyperpigmentation
Does Azelaic Acid Make Rosacea Worse?
Rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, azelaic acid has earned its reputation for being able to penetrate deep into the underlying layers of the skin to reduce redness and irritation for longer-lasting results. As with all acids, especially chemical peels, you have to find the right formula first, as it’s hard to find azelaic acid concentrates at 10% or less, which means that many products with higher percentages can compromise the consistency of the formula because it becomes very grainy. This can be a problem for people with rosacea, as the physical disruption to the skin can lead to increased redness and flaky patches on the face.
When should azelaic acid be used routinely?
There are many products that contain azelaic acid, and all produce equally impressive results. You can find products like serums and moisturizers. Whatever formula you choose, it’s important to understand how it works for you and your skin type.
Whether it’s an over-the-counter or prescription product, it’s best to apply a thin layer to the surface of your skin, especially if it’s a new ingredient you’re adding to your routine. Once your skin has developed a tolerance to azelaic acid, you can use it morning and night without worrying about a lasting reaction. Still, it’s best to consult a doctor or dermatologist before trying a new skincare product to avoid any adverse reactions. Once you’ve decided that azelaic acid is a perfect fit for your routine, you can optimize the results by using a serum or cream product after using an exfoliating toner containing an AHA or BHA, such as glycolic or salicylic acid. This way, you’ll eliminate the barrier created by the layer of dead skin cells, allowing the azelaic acid to penetrate deeper into the skin. Don’t forget to follow up with a moisturizer enriched with hyaluronic acid and with an SPF of 30 or higher.
What shouldn’t you mix with azelaic acid?
Since azelaic acid is one of the gentler facial acids, you can combine it with more ingredients. However, that doesn’t mean you can safely use them with anything. Here’s a list of ingredients you should be aware of when mixing with azelaic acid.
Azelaic acid and salicylic acid (BHA)
If you want to combine these ingredients without worrying about skin irritation, consider using products that complement each other. For example, if you want to use a serum enriched with azelaic acid, choose a toner that contains BHA, salicylic acid. Not only will this allow the azelaic acid to penetrate the skin better, it will also allow you to leave enough time between applications to avoid allergies. Of course, keep in mind that if you have dry or sensitive skin that’s prone to rosacea and similar breakouts, it’s best to avoid salicylic acid in your daily routine altogether.
Azelaic Acid and Vitamin C
These two ingredients have a reputation for being unstable in formulas. You might think the two don’t go together, but if you introduce them into your routine correctly, you’ll really benefit from these skincare powerhouses. If I were to suggest anything, it would be to use a vitamin C serum first thing in the morning and then an azelaic acid moisturizer at night.
Azelaic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid
Luckily, hyaluronic acid can be combined with any skincare ingredient without worrying about irritation. If you’re prone to rosacea, this combination is actually the most beneficial. The moisture that hyaluronic acid provides to the skin helps soothe the outer surface and allows the azelaic acid to work its magic safely, with little to no side effects, but a healthy, balanced, and radiant complexion.
Can Azelaic Acid be Used Daily?
You can actually do this! In fact, you can use it twice a day, morning and night, in your daily routine. If you want to learn more about azelaic acid and its benefits for your skin, check out our dedicated blog post all about this clever ingredient and how it can affect your complexion, especially if you suffer from rosacea.
You can learn more about using azelaic acid to treat rosacea here. As I mentioned before, always consult a doctor or dermatologist for the health of your skin. Once you better understand how this ingredient can benefit your skin, you’ll be amazed at how your complexion improves.
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