Article: Azelaic Acid
Azelaic Acid
Category: Skin lightening agent, Keratolytic agent
Brief description: Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid produced by the yeast that lives on normal skin. It's used for its potent anti-inflammatory, anti-keratinizing, and skin lightening properties.
Benefits: It helps to lighten the skin, reduces the occurrence of breakouts and acne, diminishes the appearance of skin blemishes and helps improve skin texture.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types, particularly beneficial for acne-prone, rosacea-prone, and hyperpigmented skin.
Target audience: Those dealing with uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, acne, and rosacea.
Chemical composition: Azelaic acid is a saturated dicarboxylic acid with the formula HOOC(CH2)7COOH.
Physical aspect: It is usually a white powder.
Compatibility: Compatible with most skincare ingredients, but may cause irritation if used with other strong acids.
Concentration: In over-the-counter products, azelaic acid is often used at a concentration of around 10%. Higher concentrations (15-20%) are available with a prescription for treating acne and rosacea.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Some may experience mild skin irritation, such as burning, stinging, or tingling, particularly at higher concentrations.
Regulatory status: Over-the-counter concentrations are generally considered safe. Higher concentrations are regulated and require a prescription.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Synthetic azelaic acid is typically produced in a lab, reducing environmental impact. There are no significant ethical concerns associated with this ingredient.
Brief description: Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid produced by the yeast that lives on normal skin. It's used for its potent anti-inflammatory, anti-keratinizing, and skin lightening properties.
Benefits: It helps to lighten the skin, reduces the occurrence of breakouts and acne, diminishes the appearance of skin blemishes and helps improve skin texture.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types, particularly beneficial for acne-prone, rosacea-prone, and hyperpigmented skin.
Target audience: Those dealing with uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, acne, and rosacea.
Chemical composition: Azelaic acid is a saturated dicarboxylic acid with the formula HOOC(CH2)7COOH.
Physical aspect: It is usually a white powder.
Compatibility: Compatible with most skincare ingredients, but may cause irritation if used with other strong acids.
Concentration: In over-the-counter products, azelaic acid is often used at a concentration of around 10%. Higher concentrations (15-20%) are available with a prescription for treating acne and rosacea.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Some may experience mild skin irritation, such as burning, stinging, or tingling, particularly at higher concentrations.
Regulatory status: Over-the-counter concentrations are generally considered safe. Higher concentrations are regulated and require a prescription.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Synthetic azelaic acid is typically produced in a lab, reducing environmental impact. There are no significant ethical concerns associated with this ingredient.
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