azelaic acid at a glance
Medicine class
Topical anti-acne treatment
Licensed uses
Acne; the selected gel is also licensed for papulopustular rosacea
Application
Apply to clean, dry skin and rub in gently; wash hands afterwards
Sun sensitivity
Azelaic acid does not usually make skin more sensitive to sunlight
What is azelaic acid used for?
Selected UK products are licensed for:
Acne vulgaris with Skinoren cream.
Mild to moderate papulopustular facial acne with Finacea gel.
Papulopustular rosacea with Finacea gel.
How does azelaic acid work?
In acne, azelaic acid reduces acne-associated bacteria and helps normalise the build-up and shedding of skin cells within follicles. In rosacea, it modifies inflammatory pathways and reduces inflammatory molecules and reactive oxygen species.
azelaic acid preparations and strengths
Gel
Route: Cutaneous
Strengths: 15%
How to take azelaic acid
For external use on the skin only. Clean the affected skin with water or a mild cleanser, dry thoroughly, apply the prescribed formulation and rub it in gently.
Avoid the eyes, mouth and other mucous membranes.
Wash hands after application.
Do not cover Finacea gel with an airtight or watertight dressing.
For rosacea, avoid abrasive or peeling products and alcohol-based cleansers or astringents.
After contact with eyes or mucous membranes, rinse with plenty of water and seek advice if eye irritation persists.
azelaic acid side effects
Common or expected effects
- Burning, stinging, itching, pain or redness where applied
- Dryness, scaling or irritation
- Rash, tingling or numbness at the application site
- Local skin discolouration or swelling
Get urgent medical advice
- Rapid swelling under the skin, face or around the eyes
- Shortness of breath or another severe allergic reaction
- Hives or marked contact dermatitis
- New or worsening asthma symptoms
azelaic acid in pregnancy
Experience with topical azelaic acid during pregnancy is limited. Product information advises caution, so ask a prescriber or pharmacist whether it is appropriate during pregnancy or when planning pregnancy.
azelaic acid while breastfeeding
Only a small proportion is absorbed through the skin, but caution is advised during breastfeeding. Do not apply it where an infant could contact treated skin, particularly on or near the breast.
azelaic acid interactions
Formal interaction studies have not been performed.
Other topical facial medicines or treatments
Combinations on the same area have not been adequately studied and may increase irritation. Check with a prescriber or pharmacist.
Abrasive, peeling or alcohol-based skincare products
These may aggravate irritation, particularly when Finacea is used for rosacea.
Common questions about azelaic acid
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Does azelaic acid make skin sensitive to sunlight?
It does not usually increase sunlight sensitivity, although ordinary sun protection may still be appropriate for the underlying skin condition.
What should I do if azelaic acid gets in my eyes?
Rinse immediately with plenty of water. Seek medical or pharmacy advice if irritation persists.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.