Exploring the realm of skincare solutions, one notable contender in the fight against acne is Azelaic Acid. This compound has gained attention for its potential effectiveness in addressing acne-related concerns. Let’s delve into the key aspects and considerations surrounding the use of Azelaic Acid for Acne.
What Is Azelaic Acid?
Azelaic acid serves as an acne treatment that is accessible without a doctor’s prescription, available both over the counter and through a healthcare provider’s prescription.
Functioning as a chemical exfoliator, azelaic acid aids in the removal of acne blockages within hair follicles, including whiteheads and blackheads. It also serves to eliminate trapped skin cells, oil, cosmetics, and other substances that can block follicles, thus diminishing the risk of future acne development.
In over-the-counter products, azelaic acid is commonly found in 10% concentrations, while prescribed products may contain 20% concentrations. It is often available in the form of gels or creams.
What Effect Does Azelaic Acid Have?
Azelaic acid operates by eliminating and diminishing acne-causing bacteria, unclogging, and cleansing pores to minimize bacteria-related skin irritation. It is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate acne and aids in limiting acne by reducing skin inflammation.
The specific effects of Azelaic acid in formulated products are outlined as follows:
- Treatment of acne scars: Azelaic acid facilitates changes in skin cells, thereby minimizing scarring caused by acne.
- Brighter skin: By inhibiting the synthesis of melanin, Azelaic acid contributes to brighter skin.
- Reduction of hyperpigmentation: Azelaic acid prevents skin cells from discoloring, addressing hyperpigmentation caused by acne-related inflammation.
- Treatment of rosacea: Azelaic acid effectively reduces inflammation and treats symptoms associated with rosacea, including skin swelling and blood vessel enlargement.
How Does Azelaic Acid Work?
Azelaic acid operates similarly to alpha-hydroxy acids by penetrating the skin and disrupting blockages that lead to acne. While it may not be as potent as other chemical exfoliators, it stands out for its gentle nature, serving as a final option when other treatments are not well-tolerated.
Additionally, Azelaic acid can eliminate the bacteria, P.acnes, which plays a role in instigating inflammation and the formation of pus in acne.
Uses Of Azelaic Acid For Acne
Azelaic acid functions by:
- Clearing pores of bacteria that could lead to irritation or breakouts.
- Diminishing inflammation, making acne less visible, less red, and less irritated.
- Gentle stimulation of cell turnover, promoting faster skin healing and minimizing scarring.
Remember to steer clear of astringents or “deep-cleansing” cleansers when incorporating azelaic acid into your skincare routine.
The frequency of applying the medication may differ based on your doctor’s recommendations, with some individuals requiring application twice daily.
Azelaic acid operates by:
- Purging pores of bacteria that may cause irritation or breakouts.
- Reducing inflammation, resulting in acne appearing less prominent, less red, and less irritated.
- Mildly encouraging cell turnover, facilitating quicker skin healing, and reducing the likelihood of scarring.
Other Uses For Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is employed for various skin conditions, including hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and skin lightening.
- Azelaic acid for hyperpigmentation: Following a breakout, inflammation can lead to hyperpigmentation in certain areas of your skin. Azelaic acid prevents the accumulation of discolored skin cells. Azelaic acid is effective in addressing acne and correcting hyperpigmentation caused by acne. Additional studies on diverse skin types have demonstrated the safety and benefits of using azelaic acid for this purpose.
- Azelaic acid for skin lightening: The efficacy of azelaic acid in treating inflammatory hyperpigmentation extends to its ability to lighten skin affected by melanin.
- Azelaic acid for rosacea: By reducing inflammation, azelaic acid proves to be an effective treatment for alleviating symptoms associated with rosacea.
What Are The Possible Side Effects When Using Azelaic Acid?\
Azelaic acid may lead to side effects, such as:
- Burning or tingling sensation on the skin
- Peeling of the skin at the application site
- Skin dryness or redness
Less frequently reported side effects encompass:
- Blistering or flaking of the skin
- Irritation and swelling
- Tightness or pain in the joints
- Hives and itching
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
If you encounter any of these side effects, discontinue the use of azelaic acid and seek medical attention.
It is crucial to wear sunscreen consistently when outdoors, with heightened attention to using SPF products during the use of azelaic acid. Given its potential to thin the skin, your skin becomes more susceptible and prone to sun damage.
How does Azelaic Acid compare with Other Treatments?
Azelaic acid may not be suitable for everyone. The efficacy of the treatment can hinge on factors such as:
- Symptoms
- Skin type
- Expectations
Given its gradual action, azelaic acid is frequently recommended in conjunction with other acne treatments.
Azelaic acid cream has demonstrated comparable effectiveness to benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin (Retin-A) in treating acne. Although the outcomes with azelaic acid resemble those achieved with benzoyl peroxide, it comes at a higher cost.
Additionally, azelaic acid exhibits a milder action compared to alpha hydroxy acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid.
Unlike other acids that are potent enough for standalone use in chemical peels, azelaic acid is not. This implies that, although azelaic acid is less likely to cause skin irritation, it necessitates consistent usage and requires time to manifest its effects.
FAQs
Can this skincare active be used every day?
Yes, this gentle treatment option is generally suitable for daily application and can be used up to twice a day. Those with easily irritated skin, rosacea, or perioral dermatitis (POD) may benefit from starting with alternate-day use before gradually increasing frequency.
Which is more effective for breakouts: this ingredient or salicylic acid?
If you’re unsure whether your skin issues stem from rosacea or acne, the milder option is usually the safer choice since it supports both concerns. Salicylic acid, on the other hand, may trigger irritation or worsen redness in some cases.
Is the 10% formula effective?
Several studies suggest that concentrations such as 5%, 10%, or 20%, when used consistently for a few months, may help reduce pigmentation associated with melasma. However, more comprehensive research is still needed for a definitive conclusion.
The Bottom Line
This naturally occurring skin-refining compound is known for being gentler than many commonly used exfoliating acids while offering benefits for breakouts, uneven tone, rosacea-related redness, and inflammatory flare-ups. It typically delivers gradual improvements, but existing data supports its overall effectiveness. As always, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for the best and safest results.
This article provides an overview of how this active ingredient works, its advantages, and its role in managing acne-related concerns. For more details about skincare treatments and professional services, please visit the L Spa Da Nang website.
L Spa
- Address: 05 An Thượng 4, Bắc Mỹ Phú, Ngũ Hành Sơn, Đà Nẵng 550000
- Phone: 0905 017 047 | 0236 7300595
- Kakao ID: lspadanang
- WhatsApp: +84905017047
- Email: [email protected]
- Fanpage: L Spa
