How to Use Azelaic Acid to Get Rid of Acne and Dark Spots

We have the solution.

Azelaic acid is the game-changing ingredient that can tackle both - giving you the clear, glowing skin you've been dreaming of. It’s an effective topical treatment for acne-prone skin to treat acne breakouts, reduce the appearance of acne scars, and improve your overall skin texture [1]. This active ingredient comes in many forms, ranging from toners to moisturizers to serums.

Learn more about azelaic acid benefits and how to use azelaic acid correctly in your skincare routine. We also have the best tips to get your skin used to the amazing ingredient to minimize the risk of skin purging.

What Is Azelaic Acid Used For?

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid that has been used in skincare products for many years to treat acne, dark spots, and other skin concerns. There’s research behind its effectiveness to reduce bacteria growth on the skin and control sebum production, thus reducing inflammation and redness [2]. When used correctly, it can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and balance your skin to prevent future acne breakouts.

It’s commonly infused in skincare products like:

• Facial cleansers
• Night creams
• Toners
• Serums

If you’re tired of searching for your next holy grail product, PROVEN Skincare is here to help. Take our Skin Health Quiz and create your personalized skincare set that targets acne and hyperpigmentation. We formulate the perfect amount of skin-boosting ingredients to target your skin needs and restore your healthy glow.

How to Use Azelaic Acid in Your Skincare Routine (Day and Night)

Azelaic acid can be used twice a day, in the morning and night. However, we recommend using it once a day to get your skin acclimated to the active ingredient. Start with a lower concentration and gradually increase the amount to avoid skin irritation or dry skin.

The best way to apply azelaic acid is after cleansing and before moisturizing. Just follow our optimal skincare routine:

• Cleanse your skin – Start with a gentle facial cleanser to remove dirt and dead skin cells. Sometimes double cleansing is effective to deeply cleanse your skin if you wear makeup. Wash your face with warm water and gently pat with a clean towel to remove excess. 
• Apply a thin layer of azelaic acid – Once your face is dry, it’s time to apply azelaic acid. You can either use a cream, gel or serum form of azelaic acid to cover your entire face and neck. The eye area is the only section you should avoid since the skin is thin and delicate. Let it soak in for a few minutes before moving on to the next step.
• Moisturize and protect your skin barrier – Once you’re done with the azelaic acid, apply a moisturizer to help keep your skin hydrated and protected. We recommend wearing a daily moisturizer with SPF if you’re applying azelaic acid in the morning. Otherwise, you can seal the product in with a personalized night cream before going to sleep.

What Should You Not Mix With Azelaic Acid?

It's important to be mindful of what products you use when adding a new active ingredient into your routine. Certain actives will decrease the effectiveness of azelaic acid and can lead to further skin irritation and breakouts. Check our list of ingredients to avoid while wearing azelaic acid to minimize the stress on your skin.

• Hydroxy acids – Glycolic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA) can change the pH level of azelaic acid [3]. Mixing the acids can cause severe dryness and irritate acne further.
• Benzoyl peroxide – Although both ingredients are powerful at fighting acne-causing bacteria, the duo should not be used together. Combining benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid can lead to dry, sensitive skin [4]. Instead, you can alternate days for each ingredient.
• Vitamin C or A - Both vitamins are highly acidic and should not be layered with azelaic acid. That includes Retinol, which is derived from vitamin A. However, you can use these products together in small doses [5].

Work with a board-certified dermatologist to build the right day and night time routine for your skin. As always, start off with small amounts and work your way up to stronger dosages. It can take two to three months to see results, but it’ll be well worth it when your skin starts shining.

Start Your Journey With Proven Results

It seems too good to be true, but azelaic acid is the ingredient that can target acne and dark spots. When introducing azelaic acid into your skincare regimen, start slowly and build up over time to get your skin used to the ingredient. But if you’re tired of testing and second-guessing, then we have the solution for you.

At PROVEN Skincare, we know your skin is unique and deserves personalized solutions to meet its needs. That’s why we use AI-powered technology to create customized formulas that can infuse azelaic acid and other beneficial ingredients into your skincare products. Our patented technology automatically adds the right amount of azelaic acid to take the guesswork out for you. What’s better is that you only need three products to reset and balance your skin. Let us help you say goodbye to acne and dark spots and hello to beautiful, glowing skin you can be proud of.

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