AZELAIC ACID
Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid with a wide range of benefits for the skin. At concentrations of 15% or higher, azelaic acid can reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production in skin cells.(1) Azelaic acid is frequently used to treat acne because it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and removes dead skin cells.(2-3) In cases of rosacea, azelaic acid can reduce inflammation, redness, swelling, and skin irritation. (2, 4) Furthermore, azelaic acid has strong antioxidant properties by inhibiting the formation of ROS (reactive oxygen species). (5)
(1) Breathnach, A. S. (1996). Melanin hyperpigmentation of the skin: melasma, topical treatment with azelaic acid, and other therapies. *Cutis*, 57(1 Suppl), 36–45.
(2) Searle, T., Ali, F. R., & Al-Niaimi, F. (2022). The versatility of azelaic acid in dermatology. The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 33(2), 722–732. https://doi.org/10.1080/09546634.2020.1800579
(3) Sieber, M. A., & Hegel, J. K. (2014). Azelaic acid: Properties and mode of action. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 27 Suppl. 1, 9–17. https://doi.org/10.1159/000354888
(4) van Zuuren, E. J., Fedorowicz, Z., Carter, B., van der Linden, M. M., & Charland, L. (2015). Interventions for rosacea. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2015(4), CD003262. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD003262.pub5
(5) Jones, D. A. (2009). Rosacea, reactive oxygen species, and azelaic acid. *The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology*, 2(1), 26–30.
