What does azelaic acid do?

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What is azelaic acid and how it works is concerned by many people with skin problems, because this is an effective "panacea" for acne treatment. Continue reading the article to better understand the uses, dosage as well as notes when using Azelaic acid.

1. What is azelaic acid?

Azelaic acid is a pharmaceutical substance in the dicarboxylic acid group, which can be found in a number of natural materials such as wheat, barley. Azelaic acid has been studied and found to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, so it is useful in the treatment of common skin conditions such as acne. In addition, Azelaic acid also helps prevent acne recurrence, unclogs and cleans pores, thereby effectively limiting acne.
Azelaic acid is prepared and is the main ingredient of a number of acne products such as topical creams, topical drugs with 20% content, topical gels with 15% content.

2. What effect does azelaic acid have?

With the mechanism of action is to kill and reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin, unclog and clean pores to limit bacteria that cause skin irritation, Azelaic acid is indicated in the treatment of acne from mild to moderate. In addition, Azelaic acid also helps to limit acne by reducing skin inflammation. The specific effects of Azelaic acid in the products are formulated as follows:
Treatment of acne scars: Azelaic acid promotes skin cell changes, thereby minimizing scarring on the skin caused by acne. Brighter skin: Azelaic acid prevents the skin from synthesizing melanin, thereby making the skin brighter. Reduces Hyperpigmentation: Acne that flares up and causes skin inflammation can cause some areas to become hyperpigmented. Azelaic acid limits this condition, which prevents skin cells from discoloring. Treatment of rosacea: Azelaic acid works to reduce inflammation and effectively treat the symptoms of rosacea, including swelling on the skin, swelling of the blood vessels....

3. Usage and dosage of drugs containing Azelaic acid

3.1. For medicines containing Azelaic acid For medicines containing Azelaic acid, before use, the patient should wash and use a soft towel to dry the skin. Then, take a small amount and apply it gently in a thin layer over the skin twice a day or as directed by your dermatologist. After applying the medicine, be sure to wash your hands to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Dosage of Azelaic acid for adults and children over 12 years old is as follows:
Acne treatment: Apply 20% Azelaic acid cream to the skin twice a day, morning and evening. Before applying the medicine, wash it with warm water and dry it gently. Treatment of rosacea: Apply 15% Azelaic acid gel to the skin twice a day, morning and evening. Before applying the medicine, wash it with warm water and dry it gently. The duration of treatment is 12 weeks and during this period should not eat or drink foods that can cause erythema on the skin. 3.2. For cosmetics containing azelaic acid Some cosmetics that also treat acne contain azelaic acid as an ingredient. To increase the effectiveness and help nourish the skin, before using cosmetics containing Azelaic acid, it is recommended to use AHA, BHA or retinol for better absorption of Azelaic Acid by the skin.
Similar to using drugs or many other cosmetic chemicals, before using Azelaic acid, it is necessary to clean with warm water and dry gently. Hands also need to be cleaned before applying cosmetics. Next, take a small amount to apply to the skin, spread evenly and let it dry naturally.
Note, when using cosmetics containing Azelaic acid, do not use cleansers that have a gentle, deep cleansing effect.

4. What are the possible side effects when using Azelaic acid?

Serious allergic reactions may be experienced and call for immediate medical attention if the use of a product containing Azelaic acid causes symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the throat/tongue/lips/face .
Other serious side effects that need to be contacted by a doctor after using Azelaic acid such as:
Hot, burning, stinging sensation on the skin; Tingling skin; Dry, red, irritated and flaky skin; Skin discoloration.

5. What are the precautions when using Azelaic acid?

Before using cosmetics containing Azelaic acid, patients should note:
Follow the dose and instructions of the doctor, do not abuse the drug, exceed the dose because it may cause skin irritation. Persist in using Azelaic acid for the entire duration of treatment prescribed by the doctor, do not skip doses to be able to get rid of acne completely. Do not use cosmetic products containing alcohol or astringents, pores, peeling or abrasive skin as this can make irritation worse. In patients with dark skin, it is necessary to monitor the use of Azelaic acid to increase or decrease pigmentation during treatment. During the first week of use, patients may experience some of the above side effects but not serious. However, if the skin is excessively sensitive or the irritation is severe, discontinue use immediately and consult a dermatologist. Cosmetics containing Azelaic acid are for external use only, do not let this chemical come into contact with other mucosal surfaces, especially in the face, nose and mouth. Dosage may be reduced to once daily in patients with severe skin irritation or discontinued until irritation subsides. Azelaic acid is an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne, helping to kill acne-causing bacteria, clear and unclog pores, reduce skin inflammation, thereby preventing acne from appearing. For safe and effective use, it is best to consult a doctor.

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