Azelaic Acid: Before & After Results

Monderma

Oliver Belcher

14 Apr 2025

Azelaic acid calms breakouts
It fades redness & marks
Results build over weeks
Pairs well with niacinamide
Personalised strengths with Monderma

Azelaic acid occurs in grains and is synthesised for skincare use. It has anti inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant actions that suit acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.

In this article, we outline how azelaic acid works, what results to expect, and how to use it. You will see ways to pair it with gentle care for clearer, brighter skin.

Benefits & Skin Goals

It tackles acne by limiting bacteria and calming inflammation, which helps prevent fresh blemishes and marks over time [1,2]. Redness often improves in sensitive skin [4,5].

Texture smooths as mild exfoliation clears pores [1]. Tyrosinase inhibition can lighten dark patches and even tone with steady use across weeks [3].

Azelaic acid is non comedogenic and suits many skin types. The gentle profile can reduce irritation when compared with stronger options [4].

Before & After Results

Condition or use	Measured outcome
Acne with 20 percent cream	Around 70 percent lesion reduction at twelve weeks [1]
Acne with 15 percent gel	About 70 percent lesion reduction at eight weeks [2]
Hyperpigmentation	Up to 50 percent improvement by sixteen to twenty four weeks [3]
Mild to moderate rosacea	Fewer inflammatory lesions and less erythema by eight to twelve weeks [4,5]

Table 1: Key outcomes from clinical studies

Purging & Tolerance

Mild purging can occur as turnover rises. This usually settles after a few weeks as the skin adjusts to regular use [5]. Start slowly and increase as tolerated.

How To Use

Cleanse with a gentle face wash. Apply a small amount of azelaic acid to clean, dry skin once daily, then increase to twice daily if comfortable.

Seal with moisturiser to support the barrier. Use daily sunscreen to protect gains in clarity and tone, since light can worsen marks [1,2].

Smart Pairings & Comparisons

Niacinamide pairs well for redness and tone support without extra irritation. Introduce actives gradually and balance with hydration.

Compared with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid offers a calmer route. It supports clarity with antioxidant benefits and fewer dryness issues for many users [1,2].

Conclusion

Azelaic acid can reduce blemishes, fade marks, and calm redness when used consistently. Results build across weeks, with good tolerance for most skin types [1 to 5].

By integrating pharmacist led care with evidence based formulations, Monderma can tailor gentle routines around your goals. Start your personalised skincare plan.

Content is for informational purposes only. Monderma treatments are prescribed following consultation. Results and timeframes can vary. Use as directed by your prescriber.

References

Haider A, Shaw JC. Treatment of Acne Vulgaris. JAMA. 2004;292(6):726 to 735
Thiboutot D. Versatility of azelaic acid 15 percent gel in treatment of inflammatory acne vulgaris. J Drugs Dermatol. 2008;7(1):13 to 16
Sangha AM. Dermatological Conditions in Skin of Color Managing Post inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Patients with Acne. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(6 Suppl 1):S24 to S26
Bjerke R, Fyrand O, Zaumseil RP. Double blind Comparison of Azelaic Acid 20 percent Cream and its Vehicle in Treatment of Papulo pustular Rosacea. Acta Derm Venereol. 1999;79(5):366 to 368
WebMD. Is Azelaic Acid Good for Your Skin. WebMD