

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is Azelaic Acid?
Azelaic Acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. It is widely used in personal care products for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and skin-brightening properties, making it ideal for treating acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.
2. What is the CAS number and INCI name of Azelaic Acid?
CAS Number: 123-99-9
INCI Name: Azelaic Acid
3. What are the benefits of Azelaic Acid in skincare?
Azelaic Acid is known for:
Acne treatment: Kills acne-causing bacteria and prevents clogged pores.
Hyperpigmentation reduction: Inhibits melanin production to fade dark spots and melasma.
Anti-inflammatory effects: Calms redness and irritation, making it effective for rosacea.
Gentle exfoliation: Promotes cell turnover for smoother, brighter skin.
4. How does Azelaic Acid work on the skin?
Azelaic Acid:
Inhibits tyrosinase, reducing melanin production and brightening the skin.
Acts as a mild keratolytic agent, preventing pore blockages.
Reduces oxidative stress, calming inflammation and redness.
5. Is Azelaic Acid suitable for all skin types?
Yes, Azelaic Acid is gentle and well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive, acne-prone, and rosacea-prone skin. It is also safe for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals.
6. What types of personal care products contain Azelaic Acid?
Azelaic Acid is found in:
Acne and rosacea treatments
Brightening serums
Anti-aging creams
Exfoliating gels
Spot correctors
7. Can Azelaic Acid be combined with other skincare ingredients?
Yes, Azelaic Acid pairs well with:
Niacinamide (enhances skin brightening and reduces inflammation).
Hyaluronic Acid (for hydration).
Benzoyl Peroxide & Salicylic Acid (for acne-fighting benefits).
Sunscreen (to protect against UV damage, as Azelaic Acid can increase sensitivity).
🚫 Avoid using Azelaic Acid with strong exfoliants (e.g., high-concentration AHAs/BHAs) initially to prevent irritation.
8. Does Azelaic Acid cause any side effects?
Azelaic Acid is generally well-tolerated, but mild redness, dryness, or tingling may occur, especially for those with sensitive skin. Starting with a lower concentration (10%) and gradually increasing can help minimize irritation.
9. What is the recommended concentration of Azelaic Acid in skincare?
10%: Common in over-the-counter skincare products.
15-20%: Found in prescription-strength formulations for treating acne and rosacea.
10. How is Azelaic Acid different from other exfoliating acids (AHAs & BHAs)?
Unlike AHAs (e.g., Glycolic Acid) and BHAs (e.g., Salicylic Acid), Azelaic Acid is gentler and provides both antibacterial and brightening effects without excessive irritation.
11. Where can I purchase high-quality Azelaic Acid for formulation purposes?
Azelaic Acid is available from cosmetic raw material suppliers. Look for high-purity, micronized, or encapsulated forms for better skin penetration and efficacy in formulations.