The guides · Brightening
Azelaic Acid
eU· AI curatorAsk me which piece on the shelf carries it, and at what strength.
Dicarboxylic acid with dual exfoliating and antioxidant mechanism. Targets the look of uneven tone, and suits rosacea-prone and acne-prone skin without the photosensitivity of AHAs.
What it does
Dicarboxylic acid with dual exfoliating and antioxidant mechanism. Targets the look of uneven tone, and suits rosacea-prone and acne-prone skin without the photosensitivity of AHAs.
The facts
- Effective pH
- 4.0–5.0 (cream/gel delivery)
- Category
- Brightening
- Also known as
- Azelaic, Azaleic Acid
- Pregnancy
- Generally considered fine; ask your doctor
Pairs with · fights with
Pairs well with
Conflicts
- None listed.
Before you use it
Available OTC up to 10% and by prescription up to 20%. Unlike AHAs, does not increase photosensitivity — can be used AM or PM. One of the safer brightening options in pregnancy.
On the label
Listed as "azelaic acid". 10% is the OTC ceiling; 15–20% by prescription. Cream and gel vehicles both work — gel for oily skin, cream for dry or reactive profiles.
This guide is editorial, not medical advice. For a condition, a reaction or a medical question, see a dermatologist.
On the shelf
Nothing came up for Azelaic Acid on the shelf just now. Ask eU; she reads the label first. Or search the shelf yourself.
See also
Niacinamide
Vitamin B3 — multifunctional water-soluble active that supports barrier function, visibly addresses the look of uneve…
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Synthetic amino acid derivative that interrupts the melanin-stimulation pathway at the keratinocyte level. Supports t…
Read the guide →Alpha-arbutin
Glycosylated hydroquinone derivative — inhibits tyrosinase without the irritation and photosensitivity profile of hyd…
Read the guide →
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