With Which Active Ingredients Can Azelaic Acid Be Combined?

Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid derived from grains (wheat, rye and barley). It has excellent anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, allowing it to fight against acne and rosacea problems. Depending on its concentration in a product, azelaic acid can be a medicinal substance (used in the treatment of rosacea and acne vulgaris) or a cosmetic ingredient used to regulate sebum, lighten the complexion and fight against blemishes. In dermatology, azelaic acid is used at a concentration generally between 15 and 20% and falls into the category of drugs. In cosmetics, its concentration is lower (generally less than or equal to 10%); it is used to mattify and even out the complexion, to fight effectively against imperfections and to reduce pigmentation spots.

For a complete anti-imperfection treatment, combining azelaic acid and salicylic acid can be extremely effective. As a reminder, salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), known for its keratolytic action that promotes desquamation (elimination of dead skin). Thanks to its antiseptic properties, it also prevents the growth and proliferation of fungi, viruses and bacteria, such as Cutibacterium acnes, the micro-organism that causes inflammatory reactions in acne.

In the morning and evening, we advise you to apply the matifying serum with 10% azelaic acid. Then, in a second step, apply only a few drops of the local imperfections serum concentrated with 2% salicylic acid on the individual pimples. The first results are generally visible after only three days.

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, helps to restore the skin's barrier function and participates in the healing process. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces marks and redness left by imperfections.

For a global action on the rednesses, you can combine the niacinamide with the azelaic acid. Cumulated, these two active ingredients form a real defense for mixed to oily skins. Thus, morning and evening, on clean, dry skin, first apply the matifying serum with 10% azelaic acid, wait a few seconds for it to be absorbed into the skin, then apply the unifying serum with 12% niacinamide to the entire face.