Can Azelaic Acid and Vitamin C be used together?
When it comes to using skincare ingredients together, the first thing you need to know is that you’re using the most effective combination. Azelaic acid and Vitamin C are both potent ingredients that individually deliver compelling and impressive results. It makes perfect sense to want to use these two powerhouses together, because why wouldn’t you want to reap the fruits of your labor?
But I understand your hesitation, so today we’re taking a look at how to use both Azelaic Acid and Vitamin C in your daily routine. Which is better, Vitamin C or Azelaic Acid? Azelaic acid and Vitamin C both offer impressive skin benefits, some similar and some unique to each ingredient.
Once your skin has built up tolerance, you can use these ingredients alone or in combination. Benefits of Azelaic Acid for Skin. Exfoliates the outer surface and removes dead skin cells. Removes excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, and impurities from pores.
Fights acne-causing bacteria by causing active spots, blemishes, and breakouts. Reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots caused by sun damage and acne. Contains anti-inflammatory properties to reduce skin redness, swelling, and inflammation caused by rosacea and acne.
Benefits of Vitamin C for Skin. Contains antioxidant properties to protect skin from daily stressors of free radicals. Boosts collagen production in the lower layers of the skin to fight signs of sagging skin. Repairs and reduces the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Helps brighten skin for a radiant complexion. Minimizes inflammatory skin conditions such as red spots or rosacea. Both azelaic acid and vitamin C are safe to use on nearly all skin types, except those with skin conditions that are too severe.
Tends to be sensitive.
If you’re unsure whether to incorporate these ingredients into your routine, consult a dermatologist to avoid side effects. Should I take vitamin C first, then azelaic acid, or vitamin C first?
Yes, many skin care experts recommend vitamin C over azelaic acid. Depending on your skin type, this may mean applying a vitamin C-rich serum first, waiting 10 minutes, and then following up with an azelaic acid product.
If you need my advice: even if your skin type can tolerate these ingredients, try vitamin C in your morning routine and azelaic acid in your evening routine. Not only will you get the best of both ingredients, you’ll also avoid the risk of skin irritation or dryness.
If you want to learn more about using azelaic acid and vitamin C together, read our dedicated blog post. Can I use a moisturizer after using azelaic acid?
In fact, you may find azelaic acid in skincare products like serums, face washes, or cleansers. Because skincare products are applied in order from thinnest to thickest, moisturizer is one of the last products to be applied to the skin.
You’ll also find that applying a moisturizer after using azelaic acid can keep the skin comfortable, hydrated, and healthy, and can soothe and relieve minor signs of irritation by exfoliating.
Does azelaic acid damage the skin barrier?
Yes and no, because azelaic acid chemically exfoliates the outer surface of the skin. Azelaic acid helps remove impurities from the skin, but it also reduces the thickness of the outer layer of the skin, which can lead to irritation and dryness over time.
To counteract the risk of such skin irritation or surface damage, you can combine an azelaic acid product with another product containing hyaluronic acid or niacinamide. Both are hydrating and effective at locking moisture into the skin barrier.
When the skin barrier is functioning properly, healthy, and has the right amount of moisture, it can protect itself from free radicals such as pollution, UV rays, and other environmental influences.
How to use azelaic acid on your face?
A lot depends on the product that contains azelaic acid. As I mentioned earlier, there are many skin care products, from toners to topical gels, that can be infused with azelaic acid.
Since azelaic acid requires a prescription, the acid content in the formula is usually quite high, so a small amount can go a long way. All you need to do is apply a thin layer of the product and gently massage it into the skin, gradually massaging upwards
focusing on problem areas. You can then rinse it off or leave it on your face as needed. Of course, don’t forget that you need to wear SPF 30+ every day to protect yourself from further sun damage.
Can azelaic acid help fight wrinkles?
It’s not true, and there is no evidence that using azelaic acid can help fight signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. The main anti-aging benefit of using azelaic acid is that it fights all signs of hyperpigmentation and dark spots. By reducing hyperpigmentation, your skin tone will look more even, radiant, and youthful due to the antioxidant effects.
I hope you now have a better understanding of using azelaic acid and vitamin C together, and as I suggested before, if you have concerns about using these powerful ingredients together, consult your doctor or dermatologist. Also remember: if a product causes irritation or dryness after daily use, discontinue use and seek medical advice. Follow us on Instagram for more skincare tips, exclusive offers, and product launches!
