Description

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid produced by Malassezia furfur. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, comedolytic, and depigmenting properties, making it a versatile dermatological agent. [Fitton 1991] [Schulte 2015]

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits tyrosinase and mitochondrial oxidoreductase in hyperactive melanocytes, reducing melanin production. Exhibits bactericidal activity against Cutibacterium acnes by inhibiting cellular protein synthesis. Normalises follicular keratinization. [Schulte 2015]

Indications

Acne vulgaris [Fitton]
Rosacea (papulopustular) [Kircik]
Melasma [Fitton]
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation [Schulte]

Available Concentrations

Side Effects

Burning or stinging [Fitton]
Pruritus [Fitton]
Mild erythema [Kircik]
Dryness and scaling

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity [Fitton]

Pregnancy Category

B [Zaenglein 2016]

Found In

Drugs containing Azelaic Acid

FinaceaAzelaic Acid Gel

Cosmetics containing Azelaic Acid

Aziderm Cream (Azelaic Acid 20%)Micro Labs Fixderma 2% Salicylic Acid Serum with 5% Azelaic Acid & 4% Mandelic AcidFixderma Skinoren Gel (Azelaic Acid 15%)Bayer VLCC 10% Azelaic Acid SerumVLCC

Related Conditions

Acne Vulgaris Anti-bacterial, anti-comedonal, reduces PIH Rosacea First-line topical — anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial Melasma Tyrosinase inhibitor — depigmenting with anti-inflammatory action

References

Fitton A, Goa KL. "Azelaic acid: a review of its pharmacological properties and therapeutic efficacy in acne and hyperpigmentary skin disorders." Drugs, 1991. doi:10.2165/00003495-199141050-00007
Kircik LH. "Efficacy and safety of azelaic acid (AzA) gel 15% in the treatment of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and acne: a 16-week, baseline-controlled study." J Drugs Dermatol, 2011.
Schulte BC, Wu W, Rosen T. "Azelaic acid: evidence-based update on mechanism of action and clinical application." J Drugs Dermatol, 2015.
Zaenglein AL, Pathy AL, Schlosser BJ, et al. "Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris." J Am Acad Dermatol, 2016. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2015.12.037

Limitations

This page provides a general overview of Azelaic Acid in dermatology. It does not cover every possible use, formulation, or interaction. Individual responses to compounds vary — what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult a qualified dermatologist before starting or changing any treatment.