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Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by Steal the Style
When a compound proves to be effective widely for skincare and there are demonstrable clinical benefits, it tends to become pretty popular quickly. Not only does it help a lot when dermatologists and scientific studies back the effectiveness of an ingredient, the ones that have the most widespread effects often treat a range of conditions, not just one. Azelaic acid is no exception.
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Treating Various Skin Conditions
Azelaic acid is one of a group of compounds called cosmetic acids that have a family of similar effects that are good for several skin conditions. The reason it has become the favored recommendation out of the group is that it is also gentle enough to be compatible with many skin sensitivities and conditions. That allows it to be used for long-term improvements in skin health with a smaller risk of short-term issues like irritation, making it useful for a wider range of patients.
Azelaic acid products help with acne reduction as well as hyperpigmentation, two very common conditions that affect millions. It also works in conjunction with zinc to stimulate hair growth, and it is compatible with other active ingredients like salicylic acid and retinol, making it useful in scalp health products as well as full-body skincare. To top it all off, azelaic acid is also a powerful antioxidant, which gives it a place in a daily skincare routine even when it is not treating an acute condition.
Look for Azelaic Acid 14% Concentration
If you’re trying to figure out how to reduce dark spots from acne, this active ingredient is one way to get results. Used alongside other ingredients that help lighten dark spots like vitamin C, you can sharply reduce the visibility of all kinds of blemishes, including acne spots and scars.
You can find products with azelaic acid in a range of concentrations, with some acute acne products containing 20% or more. The reason why a 14% concentration is recommended for daily use is because it is efficacious for hyperpigmentation and stronger than the 10% threshold used for twice-daily formulas, but not as strong as the high concentration formulas designed for short-term use. While azelaic acid is good for the skin, anything can irritate your skin if it is used too much. That’s why lower concentration levels are used for long-term applications than short-term ones.
Build Your Personal Skincare Routine
Getting the results that you want from your skincare routine is as simple as understanding which common active ingredients help you achieve your goals and how to best use them. Not every clinically proven skincare ingredient works well alongside every other one, though. Some are best used in separate products because of shelf stability issues when formulated together. Others are best used at different times of day. Knowing these ins and outs will help you understand when new products like vitamin C lotion are going to suit your needs.
Combining knowledge of compatible ingredients and their effects allows you to decide when you need to rotate in extra blemish reduction or sun protection. It can also help you dial up specific protections against weather hazards like seasonal dry skin from cold air. Start your research today and learn how to get the balanced complexion you have always wanted.