Category- Allopathy
Medicine Highlights
| Uses | 1. To treat and reduce pimples blackheads, inflammation and redness caused due to acne causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) 2. To reduce hyperpigmentation and brown color patches (melasma) |
| Common Side Effects | 1. Pain, burning, stinging, or tingling 2. Dry or scaly skin 3. Itching or other irritation. |
| Additional Information | 1. To be used for external application only 2. Wash hands after application to avoid accidental contact with eyes or mouth. |
| Storage | 1. The medicine should be stored at room temperature. 2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture. 3. Keep away from the reach of children. |
| How to Take This Medicine | The medicine should be applied on the skin or affected part on the skin. |
Azelaic Acid Uses
Azelaic acid 10% is a topical cream belonging to the class of anti-acne creams and used for various types of acne and rosacea caused by microbes and environmental factors, including
- Pimples
- Blackheads
- Inflammation and redness due to acne-causing bacteria.
- To reduce hyperpigmentation and brown color patches (melasma)
Azelaic Acid side effects
More Common
- Pain, burning, stinging, or tingling
- Dry or scaly skin
- Itching or other irritation.
Less Common
- Severe burning, stinging, or warmth
- Severe itching or tingling
- Severe redness, dryness, peeling, or other irritation
- Changes in skin color
- New or worsening breathing problems.
How Azelaic Acid works
Azelaic acid works like a multitool for the skin: it gently inhibits acne‑causing bacteria by disturbing their growth and development stages, keeps pores from clogging by slowing down the overgrowth of skin cells, and lightens dark spots by blocking the enzyme that makes excess pigment and reducing it. Together, these actions make it helpful for acne, rosacea, and uneven skin tone, while being mild enough for long‑term use.
Safety Measures and Warning
Allergy or Hypersensitivity
If you have previously had an allergy to this medicine, inform your doctor.
Pregnancy
It is considered safe to use during pregnancy
Breastfeeding
It is safe to use while breastfeeding. However, avoid using this medicine around the breast during breastfeeding.
Broken or Damaged Skin
Avoid applying it to open wounds, ulcers, or severely damaged skin because it can increase systemic absorption of steroids.
Azelaic Acid Interaction with Food Product
Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol after taking this medicine, as they fluctuate the level of blood glucose levels by affecting the liver and pancreas.
Azelaic Acid Interaction with Other Medicines
Avoid taking azelaic acid with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:
Azelaic Acid Chemical Structure
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name
Nonane dioic acid
Intake routine/cycle
Daily dose
Take azelaic acid exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
Overdose
Apply azelaic acid suspension/cream as per doctor’s instructions; do not consume orally. If ingested orally by mistake, overdose symptoms may occur and include nausea, irritations, and vomiting; excessive skin application causes marks on skin and burning sensations.
Storage
- Store the medicine at room temperature.
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Directions for use
- Do not apply in the eye
- Make sure to apply evenly on the skin
- Do not stop using this medicated cream immediately unless allergic; complete the full course
Azelaic Acid Summary
Azelaic acid is a skin medicine used for pimples, blackheads, inflammation, and redness caused by acne-causing bacteria. It works by killing acne-causing germs, reducing swelling, and keeping pores clear, while also lightening dark spots. Some people may feel mild burning, stinging, or redness when they start using it. It has no food restrictions but should be stored at room temperature, away from heat, freezing, or open flame.
FAQ’s
Who uses azelaic acid in their routine?
People with acne often use azelaic acid to reduce pimples and prevent clogged pores. Those with rosacea or sensitive skin use it to calm redness and irritation. It’s also chosen by people wanting to fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
Can azelaic acid be used daily?
Yes, azelaic acid is gentle enough for most people to use every day, and regular use helps control acne, redness, and dark spots. It’s best to start a few times a week, then slowly increase to daily use to avoid irritation. Once tolerated, many can even use it twice daily for steady results, but it is best to take this medicine only after consulting a doctor.
What does azelaic acid do to skin?
Azelaic acid helps the skin by gently killing acne‑causing bacteria, calming redness and swelling, and keeping pores clear to prevent new breakouts. It also fades dark spots by slowing excess pigment production. Overall, it smooths skin tone and texture, making it look clearer and more even.
What are the side effects of azelaic acid cream?
Azelaic acid cream can sometimes cause mild burning, stinging, itching, or redness when first applied. Some people notice dryness or peeling, which usually improves as the skin adjusts. Rarely, it may worsen asthma symptoms, so users with asthma should be cautious
Reference
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). PubChem Compound Summary for CID 2266, Azelaic acid [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2004– [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from.
- Cerner Multum, Inc. Azelaic acid topical: Uses, Side Effects & Warnings [Internet]. Drugs.com; 2025 Jul 24 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from.
- Chinnu Swamy D, Janani Priya M. Azelaic Acid—Indications, Dosage, Side Effects, and Precautions [Internet]. Medindia; 2024 Nov 8 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from.
- Cleveland Clinic. Azelaic Acid Cream: Uses & Side Effects [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic; 2025 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from.
- Cho HJ, Hulisz D. Azelex (azelaic acid) —Uses, Side Effects, and More. [Internet]. WebMD; 2024 Aug 21 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from.
Authors
Siva Krishna Adithya Bhumireddy completed Bachelor of Pharmacy from GIET School of Pharmacy affiliated to Andhra University and from his 3rd year of graduation itself he was working as a freelance Medical and Publication writer and having expertise in Systematic reviews and clinical research. With his keen interest and skills in research and documentation practices he also reviewed more than 100 manuscripts from international journals like Elsevier, Springer Nature, Sage Journals and all the manuscripts were indexed and appeared in Pub Med, Scopus and Web of Science databases and received honorary recognition letters and certificates from all of them. Siva Krishna Adithya also published few systematic, narrative reviews and few chapters of international expertise.