Knowra Azelaic acid Azelaic acid Azelaic acid is a saturated nine-carbon dicarboxylic acid found in grains and produced by some yeasts on skin. Topical formulations are used to treat acne and rosacea.
Cutibacterium acnes : A bacterium commonly found in hair follicles and associated with inflammatory acne. Azelaic acid inhibits this acne-associated bacterium, though it is not an antibiotic.
Acne vulgaris : A chronic disorder of hair follicles and oil glands that causes comedones and inflammatory lesions. Topical azelaic acid treats mild to moderate acne by addressing clogged follicles and inflammation.
Benzoyl peroxide : A topical oxidizing agent used mainly to treat acne by killing bacteria and reducing follicular blockage. Unlike azelaic acid, it can bleach fabrics and is often paired with topical antibiotics.
Dicarboxylic acid : An organic acid containing two carboxyl functional groups. Azelaic acid belongs to this structural family, with carboxyl groups at both ends.
Skin irritation : A local skin reaction that can include burning, stinging, itching, redness, or dryness. These effects are common early adverse reactions to topical azelaic acid.
Keratinization : The process by which skin cells produce keratin and mature into the outer skin layer. Azelaic acid helps normalize follicular keratinization, limiting clogged pores.
Rosacea : A chronic inflammatory skin condition commonly involving facial redness, flushing, and inflammatory bumps. Prescription azelaic acid formulations reduce inflammatory lesions of papulopustular rosacea.
Topical retinoid : A skin-applied vitamin A derivative that changes gene expression and normalizes follicular cell turnover. Retinoids are stronger options for comedonal acne but may irritate skin more.
Nonanoic acid : A nine-carbon saturated fatty acid with one carboxyl group. Azelaic acid has the same nine-carbon chain, but a second carboxyl group.
Pregnancy : The period during which an embryo or fetus develops in the uterus. Topical azelaic acid is often considered a useful acne option during pregnancy, with clinician guidance.
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