Azelaic acid is present in certain face care products for its matifying and unifying effect. Its anti-bacterial properties effectively fight against imperfections. It is an ally of choice for mixed to oily skin (+). It is possible to combine it with other cosmetic ingredients to act in synergy or bring a complementary action. Learn more about the right combinations, in order to benefit from its many positive effects.
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With Which Active Ingredients Can Azelaic Acid Be Combined?
Summary
- Azelaic Acid in a Few Lines
- Azelaic Acid and Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
- Azelaic Acid and Salicylic Acid
- Azelaic Acid and Niacinamide
- Source
Published November 5, 2021,
updated on February 22, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
4 min read
Azelaic Acid in a Few Lines.
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.
Azelaic Acid and Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs).
AHAs, also known as fruit acids, are molecules with effective exfoliating properties that help the skin to get rid of dead cells and to unclog pores. This limits the appearance of blackheads. The most common AHAs used in cosmetics are glycolic acid and lactic acid.
It is wise to combine azelaic acid with a treatment containing an acid with exfoliating properties such as glycolic acid or lactic acid. Together, they will visibly refine your skin texture and fight against excess sebum and pore clogging.
For example, during your evening beauty routine, you can combine the Azelaic Acid Matifying Serum with the Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Serum or the Lactic Acid Gentle Peeling Serum to effectively get rid of blackheads and impurities. On clean, dry skin, first apply the azelaic acid serum, wait a few minutes and then use the glycolic acid serum. As for the lactic acid serum, on the other hand, apply it first, before the azelaic acid serum, always on clean, dry skin.
Azelaic Acid and Salicylic Acid.
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.
Azelaic Acid and Niacinamide.
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.
Source
BUI T. P. & al. Azelaic acid: pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties and its therapeutic role in hyperpigmentary disorders and acne. International Journal of Dermatology (1995).
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