What Is Azelaic Acid?

Potential Uses

Azelaic acid may help treat acne. It seems that it works on mildly to moderately inflamed acne. This medication may help make acne less visible. It appears to do this by reducing skin irritation and redness as it lowers inflammation. Azelaic acid may destroy acne-causing bacteria in the patient's pores also. Some individuals seem to benefit from using this medication for acne scars as well. It may help because some reports indicate that it can boost the turnover rate of skin cells. This may result in faster healing. Some individuals appear to take this medication to lighten hyperpigmentation. It also seems to treat melasma.

Azelaic acid may help treat rosacea as well. It should reduce swelling and how visible a patient's blood vessels are under their skin. This medication may replace hydroquinone for some patients. However, patients may want to talk to their doctor about this medication first. This seems to be particularly important when it is being considered for 'off-label' use.

Discover the possible side effects next.