Azelaic acid is a prescription medication used to treat mild to moderate acne vulgaris. It comes in both a cream and a gel.
Azelaic acid is also used as a rosacea treatment. It is sometimes prescribed off-label to lighten hyperpigmentation.
This treatment works by killing the bacteria responsible for acne. It also helps the skin shed cells more effectively, reducing the amount of pore blockages and breakouts.
It takes a few weeks to really notice a change in your skin, so don’t give up after just a few days. Keep using azelaic acid for at least 4 weeks before expecting improvement.
Azelaic acid can also help improve post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or those discolored spots pimples leave behind.
Generally your doctor will have you apply azelaic acid twice a day, morning and night. Cleanse the affected areas first, and dry very well before applying.
Gently rub in the medication until it is fully absorbed, and wash your hands well afterwards.
- Itching, burning, or stinging
- Redness
- Dryness or peeling
- Severe irritation or rash (rarely)
For those with darker complexions, be on the lookout for lightening of the skin in areas where the medication is used. It doesn’t happen that often, but you should let your doctor know right away if you notice any changes in your skin color.
Also, if you have asthma or a history of cold sores (fever blisters), tell your doctor. Azelaic acid sometimes make these problems worse.
- Treat your skin gently. Use a mild cleanser like Dove, Purpose, or Cetaphil. Don’t scrub at the face, use astringents or other drying skin care products.
- Don’t use too much at one time. Just a dab will do. Using more won’t clear your skin faster.
- Don’t just spot treat existing blemishes. Apply over all areas where you know you break out to keep pimples from forming.
- Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
More Information About Azelaic Acid from Drugs A-Z
Source: "Azelaic Acid." MedlinePlus. 01 Sep 2008. U.S. National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health. 13 May 2009 <http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a603020.html>.
