Products That Contain Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is an ingredient in a number of products for a wide variety of skin conditions. It commonly treats acne and sometimes treats rosacea and some cases of skin discoloration. For patients of these skin conditions, products containing azelaic acid may be an alternative to harsher ingredients.
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Azelaic Acid
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Azelaic acid is a natural ingredient derived from grains like wheat or barley. It has an antibacterial effect and stops the spread of the bacteria that commonly causes acne and rosacea. It also helps the skin exfoliate and renew itself more quickly which can also prevent blemishes associated with these conditions from forming. It has been known to slow down the production of pigmentation. This means it treats discoloration disorders but may also produce a side effect of uneven skin tone in some people.
Reasons
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Azelaic acid is recommended for mild or moderate cases of acne. It has several benefits that may make it the right choice for many people's preferences. This ingredient is all-natural and does not appear to create bacterial resistance to treatment like some antibiotics. Unlike some acne treatment ingredients, azelaic acid is non-drying to the oils in the skin and is a less harsh option for those with sensitive or dry skin.
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Comparisons
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Azelaic acid compares favorably to other common skin treatment ingredients in term of side effects. Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and acetone are all common ingredients that can produce dryness, redness, or peeling. Retinol is another common acne treatment that has been known to make the skin more sensitive to the sun. Often, acne patients find that they may have an allergy or intolerance for one or more of these harsher ingredients. Azelaic acid may be a viable alternative.
Common Products
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Azelaic acid is becoming more common in a wide variety of skin treatment products, including gels, creams and cleansers. Stronger formulations are only available by prescription but azelaic acid is beginning to become more common in over the-counter products in strengths ranging from 5 percent to 15 percent. If you think azelaic acid might be the right alternative for your skin condition, consult with a dermatologist about your skin type and needs.
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References
Resources
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