Azelaic acid has gained significant attention in the skincare industry for its remarkable benefits in addressing various skin concerns. Known for its versatility and effectiveness, azelaic acid offers a wide range of benefits, making it a sought-after ingredient in many skincare formulations. Azelaic acid is a bit ignored especially in the skincare industry which is a safe skincare element that can be used.
In this article, we will explore the different skin benefits of azelaic acid. We will also try to understand why it has become a popular choice among skincare enthusiasts.
What is Azelaic acid?
It has been in use for more than 35 years. The benefits of azelaic acid include anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory elements which give it its characteristics. This is found in animal products and grains like wheat, barley, etc. One of the benefits of azelaic acid is available for sale in the form of gel, creams, or foam. A doctor’s prescription is needed. It is available at your nearest chemist’s shop. Without a prescription Azelaic acid will be given at the power of 12% and with a doctor’s prescription it will be given at 15% power.
Benefits of Azelaic acid:
1. Has anti-aging properties:
One of the many benefits of azelaic acid is it is very safe and smooth on the skin to use. It has little or no side effects when used on the skin for women. Collagen is a structural protein that keeps the skin supple and youthful. By increasing collagen synthesis, azelaic acid aids in reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. It also helps to protect the skin from oxidative stress, which contributes to premature aging.
2. Can be used during pregnancy:
The benefits of azelaic acid also include the use of the same during pregnancy. Vulgaris is a condition common in pregnant women. Due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial elements, it is safe to use during pregnancy. This is only one of the acids that are allowed for pregnant ladies to use. It will not cause any harm to the mother or the baby. It is also recommended by doctors to use it when required.
3. Helps Reduce Acne Breakouts:
One of the prominent benefits of azelaic acid is its ability to combat acne. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, which is a major contributor to acne development. Additionally, azelaic acid helps to normalize the shedding of dead skin cells, preventing clogged pores and reducing the formation of blackheads and whiteheads. Its anti-inflammatory properties also aid in calming redness and swelling associated with acne breakouts.
4. Controls Rosacea Symptoms:
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that leads to redness, flushing, and the appearance of visible blood vessels. Azelaic acid has demonstrated its efficacy in managing the symptoms of rosacea. It works by reducing inflammation and minimizing the dilation of blood vessels in the skin, resulting in a calmer complexion. Furthermore, it can help control the papules and pustules associated with rosacea, promoting a clearer and more balanced skin appearance. The swelling and redness of the skin are reduced with azelaic acid.
5. Lightens Hyperpigmentation and Melasma:
Azelaic acid has been proven effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) caused by acne, sun damage, or other skin traumas. It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, thereby helping to fade dark spots and even out skin tone. Furthermore, it has shown promising results in treating melasma, a condition characterized by brown or gray-brown patches on the skin.
Skin-specific benefits of azelaic acid:
1. Equal Skin tone:
It enhances the natural coloring of the skin. It restricts an enzyme called tyrosinase that makes dark patches on the skin and results in hyperpigmentation. That is why azelaic acid is recommended by doctors for acne breakout, melasma, and the marks which remain after acne is gone or post-acne scars.
2. Soothes inflammation:
Azelaic acid neutralizes free radicals that cause the onset of inflammation. It soothes the skin with its calming effect. The redness on the skin is also reduced due to the same. It acts beneficial for those with mild to moderate acne issues. It isn’t advised for people with cystic acne until the doctor has advised them to do so. Such patients should approach a certified dermatologist for further care and treatment.
Side effects of azelaic acid:
- Can be irritating when combined:
When azelaic acid is combined and used with benzoyl peroxide and retinoids as a mixture it can cause itching or irritation. The skin may also turn too dry and start to itch due to dryness.
- Use of it:
It should be used once or twice a day. People who have sensitive skin may use it once. If it doesn’t show signs of irritation on their skin they may opt for applying it twice gradually. Immediate application twice isn’t recommended.
- Use sunscreen when applied:
When you’ve applied the azelaic acid it is important to apply sunscreen when you go out in the broad daylight. Acne or melasma can aggravate if exposed to the sun when using azelaic acid.
- Can irritate a bit on first use:
If you’re not well-versed with acids on your skin, applying it for the first time will cause a bit of irritation. As you’ve never applied anything like this before, you can experience a bit of itching or rashes on the very first use only. If it persists during the next use too, consult a dermatologist immediately.
Conclusion:
As we’ve seen many benefits of azelaic acid, we can conclude that it is one of the safest ones to use. It can be used during pregnancies, applied with sunscreens and it gives even skin tone too. What more one can ask for? A skin will most probably become better and better with the use of azelaic acid. It is only requested for sensitive-skinned people, to be cautious when using it. Even for first-timers, it can itch just at the start. Doctors have recommended this acid to be the safest among all other acids. If any problem is faced, you can always visit your nearest dermatologist at any given time.
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