Azelaic acid is a peeling agent derived from wheat, barley, and rye. It is used for exfoliation due to it’s ability to kill bacteria, soothe and peel skin. Azelaic acid can treat acne and rosacea. It also impedes melanin production, which makes it a great treatment for hyperpigmentation and melasma.

How to use azelaic acid?

Start with one application per day. Apply azelaic acid peel either all over your face or straight on the problem areas in a thin layer. Wash your face 20 minutes before the exfoliation procedure to provide better absorption. Moisturizing can be performed in 20 minutes after the exfoliation for the very same reason.

Take advantage of azelaic acid cream during the day or night. At day you should cover it with sunscreen. Night peel application is better since azelaic acid is a chemical exfoliant that makes skin more susceptible to UV radiation.

Compatibility

Azelaic acid can be effectively combined with other prescription treatments. It’s a common practice to apply azelaic acid in the morning and make use of retinoids like Differin at night. You may even combine azelaic acid exfoliation products with topical spot treatments.

Can azelaic acid substitute retinoids?

Retinoids can be successfully replaced with azelaic acid. Add it to your skin care routine if you `can’t use retinoids. Azelaic acid is so safe that you can use it for exfoliation while pregnancy. You may switch to azelaic acid instead of taking stronger retinoids for peel.

Side effects

Like retinoids azelaic acid has some side effects. During the first weeks of treatment skin itches, becomes dry and irritated, turns red, and starts to peel off. The itching and redness pass in a week of regular application. Azelaic acid peel usually has cream base. It often provokes clogged pores and blackheads.

Moreover, due to its exfoliation properties azelaic acid increases sun sensitivity and makes skin peel for a week or two. Slow product introduction helps to avoid most mentioned consequences.

Try to apply azelaic acid peel onto the dry skin. Use it 20 minutes after the cleansing procedure.

You may witness improvement and get through side effects in a month or two. Talk to the dermatologist if your skin peels more than two months after azelaic acid exfoliation procedure.