{"id":568763,"date":"2025-11-14T00:58:33","date_gmt":"2025-11-14T00:58:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/568763\/"},"modified":"2025-11-14T00:58:33","modified_gmt":"2025-11-14T00:58:33","slug":"struggling-with-acne-redness-or-pigmentation-im-a-dermatologist-and-this-little-known-item-will-give-you-clearer-skin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/568763\/","title":{"rendered":"Struggling with acne, redness or pigmentation? I’m a dermatologist and this little-known item will give you clearer skin"},"content":{"rendered":"

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If you\u2019ve ever battled acne, redness, or those stubborn post-blemish marks, chances are you\u2019ve cycled through the usual suspects \u2013 salicylic acid, vitamin C<\/a>, maybe even a retinoid or two. But there\u2019s one ingredient quietly doing it all \u2013 calming inflammation, fading dark spots, and keeping breakouts in check \u2013 minus the irritation that often comes with stronger actives. Enter azelaic acid, the beauty insider\u2019s understated powerhouse.<\/p>\n

What is azelaic acid?<\/p>\n

\u2018Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid derived from grains like barley and wheat,\u2019 explains Dr Sonia Khorana (@dermgp<\/a>), a GP with a special interest in dermatology. \u2018But in skincare, it\u2019s usually produced synthetically to ensure stability and consistency.\u2019<\/p>\n

Though it might sound intense, azelaic acid is surprisingly gentle. It\u2019s a dicarboxylic acid, meaning it works differently from other exfoliating acids like AHAs or BHAs. Instead of aggressively resurfacing the skin, it gently promotes cell turnover while targeting bacteria and inflammation \u2013 making it suitable even for sensitive skin types.<\/p>\n

What does azelaic acid do?<\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s a great multitasking ingredient with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and keratolytic properties,\u2019 says Dr Khorana. \u2018This means it helps calm redness, reduce acne-causing bacteria and gently exfoliate the skin.\u2019<\/p>\n

In clinical settings, azelaic acid is used to treat acne, rosacea and pigmentation concerns, making it \u2018one of the most versatile and well-tolerated active ingredients.\u2019<\/p>\n

Unlike some actives that only target one issue, azelaic acid does it all: it reduces inflammation (helping to soothe rosacea and redness), fights bacteria (making it effective against acne) and inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase (which helps fade hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory marks). Think of it as a three-in-one \u2013 exfoliant, brightener and anti-inflammatory all at once.<\/p>\n

Who should use azelaic acid?<\/p>\n

\u2018I often get a lot of patients asking me about azelaic acid as it\u2019s becoming better known through social media,\u2019 says Dr Khorana. And with good reason.<\/p>\n

Azelaic acid is suitable for almost all skin types \u2013 including those who can\u2019t tolerate stronger active ingredients. \u2018It has a host of benefits and is useful for everything from acne to rosacea, perioral dermatitis to hyperpigmentation,\u2019 she explains.<\/p>\n

\"Azelaic <\/p>\n

Azelaic acid\u00a0is useful for everything from acne to rosacea, perioral dermatitis to hyperpigmentation<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re prone to redness, sensitivity or barrier disruption, azelaic acid can help restore calm and clarity without the risk of over-exfoliation.<\/p>\n

Can you use azelaic acid every day?<\/p>\n

Yes. \u2018You can use it every day,\u2019 confirms Dr Khorana. \u2018It\u2019s much gentler than many other active ingredients.\u2019<\/p>\n

In fact, azelaic acid is so mild it\u2019s considered generally safe during pregnancy \u2013 a rare trait among potent skincare ingredients. It can be used morning or night, and pairs well with a variety of additional products and actives.\u2019<\/p>\n

What are the best actives to mix with azelaic acid?<\/p>\n

Because it\u2019s so gentle, azelaic acid plays well with many other ingredients \u2013 though Dr Khorana advises sticking to professionally formulated products, rather than mixing actives yourself at home.<\/p>\n

\u2018It works well with salicylic acid (in low concentrations), as it helps unclog pores and complements azelaic acid\u2019s acne-fighting action,\u2019 she says. \u2018It also pairs nicely with retinoids and vitamin C.’<\/p>\n

Together, these combinations can refine texture, brighten skin and reduce both breakouts and pigmentation \u2013 all while maintaining your skin barrier integrity.<\/p>\n

What should you not mix with azelaic acid?<\/p>\n

While azelaic acid is forgiving, layering it incorrectly can cause irritation. \u2018It\u2019s down to the formulation,\u2019 says Dr Khorana. \u2018I would not advise layering different active products, including retinoids or exfoliating acids, at home. This can increase the risk of irritation and can lead to dryness or stinging.\u2019<\/p>\n

If you want to combine actives, look for pre-formulated products that already include compatible ingredients in balanced concentrations.<\/p>\n

What are the best azelaic acid products?<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll typically find azelaic acid in 10% concentrations in over-the-counter products, and 15\u201320% in prescription formulas. Here are some of Dr Khorana\u2019s favourites:<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/a> <\/p>\n

This contains azelaic acid to calm redness, salicylic acid to unclog pores, and hyaluronic acid for hydration \u2013 it\u2019s a great all-rounder.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/a> <\/p>\n

This one includes niacinamide along with azelaic acid, so it\u2019s really good for sensitive skin types.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/a> <\/p>\n

This clever formula combines azelaic acid exosomes and vitamin C \u2013 great for improving skin health, but also for redness-prone or sensitive skin.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/a> <\/p>\n

A favourite for acne-prone skin, as it also contains salicylic acid for an added pore-clearing boost.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"\" <\/a> <\/p>\n

Combines 10% azelaic acid with hyaluronic acid and a cica complex to calm redness, fade dark marks and keep skin hydrated.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for an ingredient that balances efficacy with gentleness, azelaic acid might just be your skin\u2019s new best friend. It\u2019s anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and brightening \u2013 all without the irritation of harsher actives.<\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re managing acne, rosacea, pigmentation or just want smoother, calmer skin, this understated multitasker deserves a place in your routine.<\/p>\n