Can I use azelaic acid with sunscreen?
In an industry as crowded as beauty, the chances of certain ingredients being missing are high, which may explain why azelaic acid and its benefits have long flown under the radar. But that doesn’t mean there won’t be benefits from incorporating them into your daily skincare routine.
What is azelaic acid? Can we use it with sunscreen? Let’s explore this in more detail, but before we dive in, here’s a quick summary of what this unsung hero can do for your skin.
What is azelaic acid?
Azelaic acid is an ingredient in skincare that is derived from grains like barley, rye, and wheat. Azelaic acid is known for its stability in formulas and is favored by many people who are prone to conditions like acne and rosacea. This is because it can reduce inflammation and block pigment production, improving the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
You’ll find azelaic acid in a variety of percentage concentrations, with some containing up to 20% in prescription formulas. Over-the-counter products have much lower percentages, which for many people is the best way to introduce azelaic acid into their skincare routine. Some other benefits of using azelaic acid include:
Contains skin-soothing properties that can reduce signs of redness and sensitivity
Improve skin tone for a more even, clear complexion
Fights skin blemishes and reduces inflammation and redness
Improve skin tone by reducing dark spots, uneven skin tone, and areas of hyperpigmentation
Now that we’ve taken a quick look at azelaic acid and its effects on the skin, let’s take a closer look at how to use it with sunscreen.
Can Azelaic Acid Be Used with Sunscreen?
Yes, you can use azelaic acid with sunscreen because, unlike other acids, it does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to UV radiation. However, it is still highly recommended to apply SPF 30 or above daily. This is because azelaic acid exfoliates the skin, causing new skin cells to be deposited on the surface, becoming more vulnerable to UV rays and the sun’s rays. Over time, this can lead to deeper skin damage, such as dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity can also appear. You’ll also find that daily sunscreens create a physical barrier on the skin, ensuring that active ingredients in other products can remain undisturbed and protected. This means you can reap the benefits without having to worry about further skin damage.
What should not be used with azelaic acid?
For effective skincare, it is recommended not to mix or layer strong ingredients like salicylic acid with other salicylates. This is because there is a high chance that the skin will become sensitive, irritated, dry and red.
As for other ingredients, there are popular moisturizing powerhouses like AHAs, glycolic acid, vitamin C and even hyaluronic acid. They have all been shown to work effectively in combination with azelaic acid if used correctly and with enough time between applications to allow the skin’s pH to rebalance.
For more information on what not to use with azelaic acid, see our dedicated blog post.
Should I use azelaic acid before or after my moisturizer?
Azelaic acid works best when applied to the skin after using water-based products. I’m talking about cleansers, face washes and other products. This is easy if you choose a product that contains azelaic acid (exfoliating toner or serum), both of which are applied to the skin before moisturizer.
A general skincare rule is to apply products in order of thinnest to thickest consistency, starting with your cleanser and ending with your daily SPF sunscreen. This ensures that all ingredients get to work in the right areas of the skin without competing with each other or having to penetrate thicker formulas.
What can you layer azelaic acid on?
There are several ingredients that can be layered with azelaic acid, with the most effective being niacinamide. By combining these powerhouses, you’ll notice signs of congestion, inflammation, and areas of hyperpigmentation, and dark spots can be visibly improved. You’ll also find that sebum production is regulated due to the unique benefits of niacinamide, resulting in a acne-fighting duo for niacinamide and azelaic acid. Azelaic acid can reduce inflammation and redness, while niacinamide can prevent worsening spots and the formation of new ones.
When should you use azelaic acid in your daily routine?
As I mentioned earlier, this largely depends on the product that azelaic acid is formulated with. However, you’ll find this clever acid in products like exfoliating toners, serums, and moisturizers. This means using this ingredient in the later stages of your daily routine. If you have questions about how to use azelaic acid and whether incorporating it into your daily routine will benefit your skin, it’s best to consult a doctor before applying anything to your skin.
Where is azelaic acid used in your daily routine?
This largely depends on the formula that contains azelaic acid. This will help you determine where in your daily routine you need to use azelaic acid. You can often find skin care products like toners, serums, and moisturizers. All of these are used in the later stages of your daily routine after cleansing your skin.
Where you use azelaic acid in your daily routine is up to you and what it does to your skin. If you have any questions, don’t forget to consult your doctor or dermatologist to find the best product for you and achieve the best results.
Can Azelaic Acid Lighten Your Skin?
Yes, azelaic acid can lighten the skin because it targets areas of hyperpigmentation and dark spots. By reducing the darkness of these problem areas, it also improves the overall appearance and texture of the skin. Due to the antioxidant properties of this ingredient, lipid levels in the protective skin barrier are replenished and healthy. This leads to an overall improved complexion.
As I mentioned before, azelaic acid exfoliates the skin. Even though it is one of the most versatile ingredients, it is still important to wear a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher every day to protect the fresh layer of skin from the sun.
Here you have some more information about using azelaic acid and sunscreen. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more information.
