11 Best Azelaic Acid Products, According To A Makeup Expert (2024)
Say goodbye to acne and other skin woes because azelaic acid is here to combat them.
Dr. Kazim DhanjiMBChB, MRCGP 
Dr. Dhanji graduated from the University of Manchester in 2010 During his training as a GP, he also trained in aesthetics and has been practicing since 2015. Currently, he works part time as a GP in the UK's National Health Service and has ... more
kirtana divakarMA (Journalism & Mass Communication) Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after read... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
swathi eMA (English Literature) Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She... more
Image: Shutterstock
Dealing with acne can be tough, especially if you can’t find the right products to manage breakouts and flare-ups. Maybe you’ve tried oral medications, creams, and treatments, but in vain. May we urge you to try a few of the best azelaic acid products?
Azelaic acid, also known as dicarboxylic acid, is an organic ingredient that comes from grains like rye, wheat, and barley. This skin care ingredient is enriched with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that may treat rosacea and acne and manage breakouts.
In addition to reducing acne inflammation, these azelaic acid products can be used to address other skin concerns like dark spots and hyperpigmented skin. You can get an over-the-counter product that contains a 10% concentration of this skin care ingredient. If you are willing to give this acne managing ingredient a shot, scroll down. We have listed 11 effective azelaic acid products that can help you reduce acne breakouts and flare-ups. Keep reading to know more!
Kazim Dhanji, MD, KHD Aesthetics, mentions, “Azelaic acid has many properties, all of which have many benefits for the skin. It is a great ingredient for reducing inflammation, improving skin tone and pigmentation. It also is a great antioxidant that can counter the free radicals in the environment around us.”
In This Article
The 11 Best Azelaic Acid Products Of 2024 For All Your Skin Woes
Best Preservative-Free Formula:Cos De BAHA Azelaic Acid 10 Serum
You no longer have to break the bank to have beautiful and glowing skin like K-pop idols. Get flawless skin and tackle major skin concerns with this best Korean product at a reasonable price. With the powerful combination of 10 percent azelaic acid, niacinamide, vitamin B5, and hyaluronic acid, this non-greasy and non-oily azelaic acid skincare product reduces the appearance of blemishes and acne. It clears your face of dark spots, breakouts, and marks to give you soft and silky skin. This product that contains this wonderful skin care ingredient called azelaic acid works well for rosacea prone skin and also helps with hyperpigmentation. The lightweight product is free of harsh chemicals and hence is safe for daily use. You can use this azelaic acid product, for regulated oil production, on oily skin twice every day, on its own or as a part of your 5-step Korean skincare regime. Always test the product on a small area before using it all over your face to ensure it suits your skin.
Pros
- Sulphate and paraben-free
- Alcohol and fragrance-free
- Free of artificial colors
- Reduces acne and blemishes
- Lightweight
- Fades brown spots
- Makes skin soft and silky
Cons
- It may not be suitable for sensitive skin
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 4,708 reviews claiming its efficacy.
Best For Hyperpigmentation:Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar
This highly effective cleansing bar is a multi-action powerhouse as it combines the benefits of azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, coconut oil, safflower seed oil, and licorice root to give you a healthier and brighter complexion. It is backed by an advanced technology where the 6 key ingredients work together to help treat signs of aging, dryness, blemishes, and reduce production of melanin. The azelaic acid cleanser enhances the uneven skin tone, appearance of dark spots, and overall complexion. The creamy lather with light tea tree and licorice scent of this over-the-counter azelaic acid product can also act as an exfoliator or a face mask in the morning and night. In this YouTube video, you will find a detailed review of the Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar. Check it out to learn about the tester’s experience with the product.
Pros
- Balances uneven skin tone
- Fights hyperpigmentation
- Boosts healthier and brighter skin
- Fights aging signs
- Controls melanin production
- Improves appearance of dark spots
Cons
- It may not be suitable for extremely dry and flaky skin.
Did You Know?Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 4,839 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Best Lightweight Formula:Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
Make the right choice for your skin with this product containing azelaic acid for acne scarring and related skin concerns. Its multi-tasking formula created with a combination of azelaic acid and salicylic acid, licorice root extract, glycerin, and some emollients backed by extensive scientific research gives you beautiful skin, irrespective of its type— dry, sensitive, or combination. This lightweight and oil-free product fades the appearance of blemishes, acne breakouts, and scars. This azelaic acid product for sensitive skin can work as a gentle exfoliator and also help fade dark spots and redness. As it leaves the skin feeling soothed, you can include it in your morning and night skincare routine every day without having to think twice. Check out the video review of the Paula’s Choice BOOST 10% Azelaic Acid Booster for more information about the reviewer’s experience with it.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Oil-free formula
- Paraben and fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Soothes skin irritation
- Fades acne scarring
- Evens out tone and texture
- Reduces dark spots and redness
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Contains xanthan
Pro TipCos De BAHA Azelaic Acid 10 Serum Best Preservative-Free Formula | Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar Best For Hyperpigmentation | Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Azelaic Acid Booster Best Lightweight Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal | Oily, Normal | Oily |
| Dimensions | 1.4 x 1.4 x 4 inches | 2.75 x 2.75 x 1.75 inches | - |
| Weight | 1 Ounces. | 2 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 4,708 | 4,839 | 3,208 |
| Price | $13.98 | $24.25 | $11 |
Best For Skin Brightening:The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
This azelaic acid product can be a one-stop-solution for all your major skin issues. The lightweight formula contains 10% pure azelaic acid, the star ingredient, sourced naturally from grains using yeast. The high concentration of azelaic acid helps give you an enhanced complexion by brightening your skin tone and evening out its texture. It also helps reduce the appearance of blemishes and can works as an effecrive acne treatment. Its cream-gel formula has antioxidant properties that work for all skin types, but ensures that you use it only on unbroken skin. Always perform a patch test before use if you are using the product for the first time. Check this YouTube video for an honest review of the reviewer’s experience with The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%. If you want to know more about the benefits of the Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%, click on this video.
Pros
- Brightens complexion
- Lightweight formula
- Contains antioxidants
- Suitable for all skin types
- Improves texture
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol
Best Cruelty-Free Formula:REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic
If you are worried about skin irritation and other skin concerns when switching to new skin care products, try this tonic. The naturally sourced ingredients ensure that you get a flawless skin without causing any irritation. This facial tonic contains azelaic acid for skin that is blended with lactic acid (AHA) and salicin (BHA). It rejuvenates your tired and dull skin, affected by pollution or city lifestyle, to reveal a brighter and youthful complexion. The tonic exfoliates gently by clearing dead skin cells and pores, and hence, prevents further breakouts. It shrinks enlarged pores and enhances the appearance of your skin. Suitable for all skin types, it can moisturize and improve elasticity to reveal a smoother and even skin tone and texture. The product is also proven to deliver visible results as per a consumer study evaluated by the brand. As per it, a majority of consumers noticed brighter and smoother skin after use.
Pros
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Shrinks enlarged pores
- Gently exfoliates
- Brightens complexion
- Moisturizes skin
- Evens out skin tone
Cons
- Contains added fragrance
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 2,834 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
Best pH-Balanced Formula:Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10%
Let your new friends and acquaintances keep guessing your age as this azelaic acid serum provides anti-aging benefits with the unique formula containing high concentration of glycerinated azelaic acid for skin, niacinamide, vitamin C and coffee seed extract. Its recipe made with natural botanicals and marine-based ingredients helps minimize imperfections like redness, inflammation, dullness, and discoloration. It is gentle on all skin types, yet a powerful exfoliator with a non-irritating and non-toxic formula. The pH balanced serum fades dark spots, unclogs pores, and removes excess oil while minimizing pore size to give you radiant skin with an even and smooth texture and tone. While the product is suitable for people with sensitive skin type, the brand still suggests performing a patch test prior to its use.
Pros
- pH balanced
- Lightweight
- Contains skin-soothing properties
- Gets easily absorbed
- Non-irritating formula
- Anti-aging properties
- Unclogs pores
- Paraben and gluten-free
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Fragrance-free and non-toxic
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Contains alcohol
Best For Exfoliation:Bliss Green Tea Wonder Clarifying Overnight Gel Mask With Azelaic Acid
You must be aware of the numerous benefits of green tea for your skin. Now imagine the impact it can have on your skin when it is combined with azelaic acid, another wonderful skin care ingredient. The natural exfoliants in this azelaic acid product remove excess sebum, dead skin cells and clears your pores. The azelaic acid cleanser helps maintain its natural barrier and does not leave your skin feeling dry. You will also experience your pores tighten to reveal a fresh, smooth, and clear look. Containing antioxidant properties, this lightweight gel de-stresses your skin by providing deep moisturization. All you need to do is just sleep on with this overnight mask and wake up to a rejuvenated and enhanced complexion.
Pros
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Paraben and SLS-free
- Exfoliates dead skin cells
- Offers soft and supple skin
- Calms irritated skin
- Maintains skin’s natural barrier
- Shrinks pores
- Provides deep hydration
Cons
- Some may find the consistency too sticky.
Best For Skin Discoloration:PCA Skin Pigment Bar
Try this azelaic acid skincare product and walk confidently like you are walking on a red carpet as your beautiful glowing skin wins over several hearts. This scientifically-developed serum is ideal for skin concerns like discolorations on the face and body. Formulated with active powerful ingredients like azelaic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide, this azelaic acid moisturizer hydrates and restores healthy skin. It helps reduce redness and discoloration by preventing hyperpigmentation. It also reveals an evenly toned texture, brighter, and enhanced complexion with its non-irritating formula.
Pros
- Treats discolorations
- Reveals brighter complexion
- Evens out skin tone
- Non-irritating formula
- Soothes and calms skin
- Reduces redness and hyperpigmentation
Cons
- Contains alcohol and fragrance
- It may not be suitable for people with a sensitive skin type or acne-prone skin.
Best Skin Soothing:TULA Skin Care Clear It Up Acne Clearing & Tone Correcting Gel
The Clear It Up Acne Clearing & Tone Correcting Gel from Tula Skin Care is a fast-acting formula that helps to fight acne and prevent future breakouts effectively. It is formulated with FDA-approved salicylic acid, niacinamide, and azelaic acid. These potent skin care agents combine to unclog blocked pores and fade marks left by breakouts and brighten the skin for a youthful complexion. The prebiotics & probiotic extracts help to balance & improve skin smoothness, while superfoods like mushroom extract and wild mint help refine the look of pores. This pigmentation corrector gel is also enriched with willowherb and hyaluronic acid to help soothe the skin. According to a self-assessment on 30 subjects during 4 weeks by the brand, a majority of the participants noticed less inflamed or irritated skin and some of them noticed a reduction in dark spots that occurred due to past breakouts. This means that the product is proven to deliver visible results.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Petrolatum-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Triclosan-free
- Retinol-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dairy-free
- Gluten-free
- Silicone-free
- Dimethicone-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Not suitable for dry skin
Best For Dark Spots:PCA Skin HQ-Free Pigment Gel
Be it any time of the day or no matter how stressed you are after a long day at work, always look refreshed with this wonder serum. Add this azelaic acid product to your morning or evening skin care routine for a rejuvenated and glowing skin. This serum helps treat acne, hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and delays the appearance of signs of aging. Compatible with dry, oily, combination, and mature skin, it gives that extra boost to your skin by promoting even skin tone and brighter and enhanced complexion. This safe and effective product also contains kojic acid and is free of the many possible irritants.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Combats dark spots
- Fights hyperpigmentation
- Promotes even skin tone
- Hydroquinone-free
- Helps with acne
- Delays signs of aging
Cons
- Contains alcohol
Best Non-Comedogenic Option:Glytone Enhance Brightening Complex
This azelaic acid cream is all you need to complement your daily skin care regimen. Let us tell you why. This hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic cream provides visible results and is extremely effective in preventing hyperpigmentation. The azelaic acid moisturizer offers deep hydration to reveal a soft and smooth skin. The lightweight formula contains organic acids like azelaic and glycolic acids that help improve the appearance of your skin with an even and smooth texture. This cream with azelaic acid, the star ingredient, exfoliates skin and helps fade dark spots. It helps your dream of a radiant and bright skin tone turn into reality.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Moisturizes
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance and paraben-free
- Improves appearance of dark spots
Cons
- It may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
Now that you have learned about azelaic acid products, here’s how you can choose one with this superb skin care ingredient for your skin.
How To Choose Azelaic Acid Products
- Ingredients
You can look for a product that contains skin soothing agents like licorice root extract, aloe, or allantoin as they help in maintaining smooth texture of the skin after exfoliation of dead skin cells. Experts suggest that it is better to pick products that don’t combine azelaic acid with Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid for those with dry skin. This will increase the risk of dryness and skin irritation.
- Hypoallergenic
Even though azelaic acid is well tolerated by people of all skin types, it is still better to choose one that is hypoallergenic as those with an extremely sensitive skin type may experience mild redness and irritation. It is also safer to do a patch test first. You can also look for a product with a “dermatologist-tested” label to ensure it is tested safe for your skin.
- Non-comedogenic
If the azelaic acid product you are eyeing on is non-comedogenic, it is even better as you can be assured that it won’t clog your pores and will keep breakouts at bay.
Azelaic acid can be used in the form of a gel, serum, or cream. But the way you use an azelaic acid is more or less common for all forms of products. Here’s how you need to use it.
How To Use Azelaic Acid For Skin
- Wash the area where you would like to apply the product with warm water.
- After washing thoroughly, pat it dry.
- Wash your hands too before applying the product.
- Apply the product on the affected area. You may use it as a spot treatment.
- Rub it in and allow it to dry completely.
- You may pair it with other soothing ingredients like niacinamide, hydroxy acids or antioxidants-rich products by adding them to your skincare routine.
Azelaic acid is an underrated ingredient when it comes to skincare. However, it is now gaining popularity for the numerous benefits that it provides. Let us sum it up for you.
What Are The Benefits Of Azelaic Acid?
- Gentle exfoliation
It unclogs pores and removes dead skin cells. It is a gentler exfoliator than other alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids. It refines the skin texture and tone.
- Helps with hyperpigmentation
Azelaic acid can help treat dark spots or hyperpigmentation by destroying melanocytes— cells that produce melanin.
- Treats acne and rosacea
It clears pores by killing bacteria. It reduces production of keratin that can lead to acne and gives you a clean and clear skin. It also reduces inflammation, swelling, and redness associated with rosacea prone skin.
- Reduces blackhead formation
It helps with new skin turnover quickly to heal your skin and reduce scarring or pimple and blackhead formation.
Infographic: The Benefits Of Using Azelaic Acid On The Skin
Azelaic acid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, ideal for treating skin infections caused by bacteria. Including it in your regimen can help you achieve clear and healthy skin. Check out the infographic below to learn about a few benefits of using azelaic acid. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Various acids are used in skin care products like OTC, creams, and acne treatments for different skin beneficial properties, such as to exfoliate the skin’s surface and reduce or hide the spots to give you flawless skin. The Azelaic acid products are infused with niacinamide, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid and are rich in antibacterial and antioxidants that help manage acne, dark spots, and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation to promote even skin tone. The Cos De BAHA Azelaic Acid 10 Serum is a great option to help you get rid of acne scars, while the Paula’s Choice BOOST 10% Azelaic Acid Booster is perfect for getting radiant, even-looking skin. But if you are looking for a formula to get blemish-free skin, try The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%. Furthermore, these acids help reverse the signs of aging and improve overall complexion. In addition, these products have anti-aging properties and improve overall complexion. In addition, these acids are lightweight, cruelty-free, and vegan. Some of them are also dermatologist-tested and are proven to deliver visible results. However, some Azelaic acid products do not suit all skin types. Hence, wisely choose the products that suit your skin type with the help of our buying guide. Also, do a patch test to avoid skin irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the side effects of azelaic acid?
You may experience minor side effects from azelaic acid, usually at the beginning of treatment. You may experience temporary stinging, burning, itching, or tingling. These gradually reduce as your skin gets adjusted to the ingredient.
Can you get azelaic acid over the counter?
Yes, you will find plenty of over-the-counter azelaic acid products as well as those that can be bought through prescription from your doctor.
Can I put moisturizer on top of azelaic acid?
Yes, you can apply moisturizer after using azelaic acid, especially because many azelaic acid products are drying in nature.
Should you use azelaic acid every day?
It is safe to use azelaic acid twice every day. However, if you have sensitive skin, you may use it once every other day.
Can I apply rosehip oil after azelaic acid ?
It is generally advised to apply rosehip oil before azelaic acid suspension.
How long does azelaic acid take to work?
Azelaic acid starts showing results between 6- 10 weeks.
Do dermatologists recommend azelaic acid?
Yes, dermatologists recommend azelaic acid for its various pharmacological uses and benefits, like its anti-inflammatory benefits and antioxidant properties.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Kirtana Divakar, is a skin care enthusiast. She checked several online reviews and customer feedback to pick the best Azelaic acid products for hyperpigmented skin and dark spots. These products can reduce acne inflammation and breakouts and promote healthy skin.
