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Thats where azelaic acid comes in.
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But lesser-known azelaic acid is an acne fighter thats much gentler than many other active ingredients.
Curious about making the switch from harsher products to something that might be muchkinder to your face?
Heres what you better know about treating acne or redness with azelaic acidin both its prescription and over-the-counter formulas.
What is azelaic acid and what does it do for your skin?
This anti-inflammatory benefit is also what makes azelaic acid useful for people with rosacea, Dr. Ogunleye says.
Basically, bacteria is the enemy when it comes to acne, and even rosacea in some cases.
Overgrowth of bacteria or yeast in the pores contributes to acne.
Plus, regular exfoliationwhich can unclog your poresmay make breakouts less likely.
What are the prescription options for azelaic acid?
Both come in an azelaic acid gel or azelaic acid foam consistency.
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But these azelaic acid prescription options are not always accessible.
And without insurance, azelaic acid prescriptions can be very expensive, Dr. Ogunleye saysusually a few hundred dollars.
Which brings us to our next point….
What about nonprescription azelaic acid products?
Is azelaic acid safe for pregnant people?
Theres minimal fetal exposure when azelaic acid is used topically, Dr. Massick says.
How long does it take for azelaic acid to work?
But some people may see a benefit within four to six weeks or even sooner.
You may find its not as effective if you forget to use it consistently, Dr. Massick says.
But, overall, azelaic acid is a pretty easygoing ingredient, Dr. Zampella says.
Really, the biggest barrier is getting it covered by insurance, Dr. Zampella says.
How do you get started with azelaic acid?
Azelaic acid tends to be less irritating than either benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid, Dr. Massick adds.
Azelaic acid has no chill.
