Mixing Ferulic Acid with Azelaic Acid: Benefits and Best Practices

Can I Mix Ferulic Acid with Azelaic Acid?

Even if you consider yourself pretty clued up about skincare ingredients and how they work on the skin, I wouldn’t be surprised to find you a little puzzled about what exactly ferulic acid and azelaic acid do for the skin. This is only because both acids are usually overshadowed by other ingredients that have become household names, such as hyaluronic acid and retinol.

So, what is it about these acids that make them so effective on the skin, and if you haven’t started using them yet, is there a chance you’re missing out on a new skin saviour? Let’s find out more about mixing ferulic acid and azelaic acid together, but before we do, here is a quick refresher course on both powerhouses and how they work on the skin.

What Is Ferulic Acid?

Ferulic acid, also known as hydroxycinnamic acid, is derived from molecules found in the cell walls of various plants such as, oats, peanuts, oranges, and brown rice. Packed with antioxidants this acid works hard at combating any potential damage caused by free radicals, such as UV exposure, pollution, central heating, and other environmental aggressors. Once applied to the skin ferulic acid can fully protect the skin against any potential damage and neutralising the impact the free radical has on the face. The only thing ferulic acid is unable to do is repair any existing damage caused to the skin.

You’ll often find that ferulic acid is developed as a liquid form and is formulated into serums and moisturisers. You’ll also find that when formulated correctly, it will come in specific packaging to help prolong its lifespan and prevent the serum from oxidising. This could either be an opaque bottle or one that is airtight. It is also best to store your ferulic acid products out of direct sunlight to stop the product turning a dark muddy colour.

There is more to find out about ferulic acid over on our Skin School page on the website, so check that out!

What Is Azelaic Acid?

Azelaic acid is found in grains, such as wheat, rye, and barley. Enriched in various beneficial properties, such as anti-inflammatories and antimicrobial it is one of the few skincare ingredients that can help target acne and rosacea. Highly effective and beneficial for almost all skin types, azelaic acid can simultaneously calm any flare-up in rosacea and reduce the severity of any acne breakouts. Known for working gently on the skin, ferulic acid is often favoured by many as a great alternative to other more potent actives. The results are the same but without any negative side effects, such as dryness, redness, and itching.

You’ll find that azelaic acid comes in a variety of skincare formulations, from face washes to creams. This ensures you can introduce azelaic acid into your routine in a simple and effective way without having to alter your current skincare regime. There’s more to learn about azelaic acid over on the blog, so check that out for more information.

Can you mix ferulic acid and azelaic acid?

Yes, you can mix ferulic acid and azelaic acid together as they both work on different areas of the skin and won’t overload it. As I have already mentioned, ferulic acid is packed with antioxidants, and is able to ward off any further damage to the skin caused from exposure to free radicals and other environmental aggressors. Whilst ferulic acid works on the skin, you’ll also find azelaic acid is able to gently slough away the build-up of dead skin cells that can cause the complexion to dull, lack lustre, and littered with blemishes. With azelaic acid being known as one of the gentlest acids, you will also find it is able to work together with many acids, even ones that are more potent.

Bearing in mind however, that you need to balance out how much exfoliation your skin is exposed to so try alternating the days you use each of these acids and try teaming them with hyaluronic acid to help lock moisture into the skin and avoid any negative side effects.

What should you not mix with ferulic acid?

Ferulic acid is one of the rare skin ingredients that can not only work effectively with other actives, but will in fact, boost their results on the skin. It particularly works well with certain skin ingredients that contain a lot of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E. By layering ferulic acid it is thought to not increase any skin sensitivity, just if you remember to apply a daily SPF of 30 and above ensure you are protecting the skin.

Can you use azelaic acid with other acids?

Yes, you can use azelaic acid with other acids, don’t let the word “acid” confuse you into thinking using them together is a recipe for disaster as they will be too potent on the skin. As I have already mentioned, azelaic acid is a gentle acid and works well with many other skin ingredients, and on almost all skin types. Having said that, it is still important to perform a patch test for 24 hours before applying any new formula or ingredient onto the face. The easiest way to do a patch test is to apply a small, 10p size amount of the product onto the inner forearm and leave it for 24 hours. If there are no signs of irritation or redness, it’s a clear indication your skin is happy with the product. If you find yourself with any further worries, it’s best to consult with a doctor or dermatologist.

How often should you use ferulic acid?

You can use ferulic acid every day, preferably during your morning routine as the rich antioxidant traits of the acid will keep your skin protected from any daily exposure to free radicals. You’ll find it is particularly successful at combating UV light and pollution and teaming your ferulic acid with other potent actives will give the skin a boost in overall protection.

I hope that this blog post has cleared up a few questions you have about both powerhouse ingredients. Don’t forget, if you have any more questions, come, and follow us on Instagram, you’ll find one of our skin experts in the DMs!

DQH Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C? It’s easy to create a skincare routine, but knowing how to use it is another thing entirely. In most cases, if you’re not getting the desired skin results, it could be due to the layering of conflicting ingredients. So, is it possible that salicylic acid and vitamin C are such ingredients? Or are these active ingredients the duo that’s been missing from your skincare routine? If you want answers, stick around because today we are going to explain the benefits of salicylic acid and vitamin C and how they can be used in your daily life. What are the benefits of salicylic acid for skin? Salicylic acid is one of the most commonly used beta hydroxy acids and is favored by many people with oily, acne-prone skin. This acid is derived from willow bark, and unlike its water-soluble relatives (called alpha-hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate deeper into the lower layers of the skin. Once it reaches the lower layers, it can help unclog pores of excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, debris, and impurities. This results in clearer skin tones and greater definition. Not only does salicylic acid benefit the underlying layers, but the outer surface of the skin benefits as well. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid removes the buildup of dead skin cells. This is accomplished by breaking the bonds that hold dead cells to the surface. Over time, this can cause the complexion to look dull and prone to acne, blackheads, and other blemishes. If you’d like to learn more about salicylic acid and how it can improve your skin, check out this dedicated blog post from a beauty insider. What are the benefits of vitamin C for skin? Vitamin C is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, which means it is very effective at fighting free radicals and preventing them from causing further skin damage. Examples of free radicals include pollution, central heating, UV rays and harsh climate. They attack proteins, fats and cell membranes as soon as they come into contact with the skin, causing signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles as well as hyperpigmentation, flaky patches of skin and loss of elasticity. Many people usually prefer to use vitamin C in their morning routine as this ingredient gives the complexion a radiant glow. You’ll also find that vitamin C can target areas of hyperpigmentation, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The thing about vitamin C is that there are a lot of outdated studies going back to the 1950s that describe vitamin C as an unstable skin component. Thanks to improvements in modern technology, this is no longer the case as all products now contain a stable form of vitamin C. Visit The Beauty Insider to learn more about vitamin C. So please check out our blog post. Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C? Yes, you absolutely can. In fact, it’s thought that using salicylic acid before using vitamin C ensures it penetrates faster and works faster. This is an efficient way to utilize two power sources, and the reason has to do with pH. For example, the skin’s natural pH is about 4.7, making it slightly acidic. Salicylic acid and vitamin C are also both acidic, and you’ll find that vitamin C is absorbed quickly into the skin. Therefore, using salicylic acid beforehand can increase the acidity of the skin and allow vitamin C to penetrate into the skin faster. While this is considered an effective way to combine two powerful ingredients, you need to be aware of your skin type and how it reacts to certain active ingredients. Even people with perfect, normal skin can experience skin sensitivity and irritation. Therefore, always consult a doctor or dermatologist before using any new products on your skin. It’s also important to follow skin application rules. In this case, you need to use the product correctly to ensure you get the best results for your skin. If you’re not sure what I mean, the basic rule for skin is to start with the thinnest consistency and work your way up to the thickest consistency. This prevents a barrier from forming on the surface, preventing other active ingredients from penetrating the skin. Can I use salicylic acid at night and vitamin C in the morning? Yes, absolutely, this is considered the most effective way to get returns without any adverse side effects. This is because there is enough time between applications to ensure that the skin’s pH levels return to balance. You’ll also find that Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants and is perfect for use in the morning to ensure your skin is protected and looking its healthiest. Due to the small size of salicylic acid molecules, it is an acid that is able to reach the deepest parts of the skin. While this is effective at keeping skin clear, it also increases the risk of irritation and photosensitivity. Therefore, many people prefer to use powerful BHAs in their evening routine without exposure to UV rays, pollution, or harsh weather. Warning: If you avoid using sunscreen every day, none of these ingredients will do what your skin needs. The combination of chemical peels and powerful ingredients increases the risk of further damage to the skin’s surface. Use SPF 50 every day to keep your skin protected and your lipid barrier healthy, even on cloudy days, keeping your skin in top condition.

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