Getting the most out of your azelaic acid product requires using it properly in your skincare routine. Azelaic acid is very versatile and layers well with most other ingredients when used correctly.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to effectively layer azelaic acid with some of the most popular skincare actives:
Using Azelaic Acid with Retinol
Many choose to pair azelaic acid with retinol, a vitamin A derivative that tackles signs of aging. Simply apply your azelaic acid serum first to prime the skin. Allow it to fully absorb for 2-3 minutes before following with your retinol cream or serum. The azelaic acid helps gently exfoliate and boost skin cell turnover, which allows the retinol to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
Using Azelaic Acid with Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that exfoliates to clear pores, reduce breakouts, and smooth texture. Since both azelaic and salicylic are chemical exfoliants, it's best to use salicylic acid in the morning and azelaic acid at night. This avoids over-exfoliating or irritating the skin. Azelaic acid enhances the acne-fighting effects of salicylic while providing additional dark spot-fading benefits.
Using Azelaic Acid with Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that provides a deeper exfoliation to reveal a glowing, fresh complexion. As with salicylic, alternate glycolic acid and azelaic acid use - glycolic morning and azelaic evening works well. Avoid layering them together in the same routine as this can cause redness and irritation. Azelaic acid boosts the smoothing and pore refining effects of glycolic while tackling pigmentation concerns.
Using Azelaic Acid with Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant powerhouse ingredient that brightens and evens skin tone. The ideal combination is to use vitamin C serum in the morning before your sunscreen, and azelaic acid at night. This way, vitamin C works on existing dark spots and hyperpigmentation, while the azelaic acid prevents new discoloration from forming.
Using Azelaic Acid with Niacinamide
Niacinamide is another antioxidant that fortifies and hydrates skin while fading dark spots. Apply niacinamide before azelaic acid to maximize brightening benefits. This dynamic duo works together to moisturize skin while visibly diminishing areas of pigmentation.
Using Azelaic Acid with Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is a commonly used acne medication that works as an antibacterial. Apply benzoyl peroxide first as a targeted spot treatment on breakouts, then smooth on your azelaic acid serum. The combination is highly effective for treating active pimples and preventing future breakouts.
By properly layering azelaic acid with other proven actives, you can craft an effective regimen tailored to your unique skin’s needs. Our Azelaic Acid Serum combines perfectly with other products to enhance your skincare routine.