Ingredient decoder

Azelaic acid: is it comedogenic? What it does in skincare

INCI name: Azelaic Acid

Acne verdict Acne helper

Helps acne-prone skin

  • ComedogenicNo published rating
  • IrritancyNo published rating

What it does

Calms bumps, fights acne bacteria and fades post-acne marks.

  • Anti-acne
  • Buffering
  • Masking

Azelaic acid in plain English

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid that helps keep pores clear, reduces acne bacteria and calms redness. It is also known for fading the dark marks pimples can leave behind. Prescription versions use 15 or 20 percent, while cosmetic products usually contain less. It is generally well tolerated, though some people feel mild stinging or itching at first.

Is azelaic acid bad for acne?

No. Azelaic acid is on the helpful side for acne-prone skin and is not known to clog pores. Our checker groups it with the anti-acne ingredients.

Clean routine and still breaking out? The cause may be internal. See what is driving it

Also called

  • Azelaic Acid
  • Nonanedioic acid
  • Azelaic

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Frequently asked questions

Is azelaic acid comedogenic?

There is no published comedogenic rating for azelaic acid, and it is not known to clog pores. It is used in products made for acne-prone skin.

What does azelaic acid do in skincare?

In short: calms bumps, fights acne bacteria and fades post-acne marks. In formulas it is used for buffering and masking.

What else is azelaic acid called on ingredient labels?

On ingredient lists, azelaic acid can also appear as Nonanedioic acid or Azelaic.

Sources