Azelaic Acid: What It Is and What It Is Used For in Skin Treatment

Azelaic acid is a natural compound produced by a common yeast that resides in the epidermis, specifically Malassezia furfur (historically known as Pityrosporum ovale).

In New Zealand, this acid is available in a 20% formulation under trade names such as Skinoren™ Cream, , Lotion medicated Acne-Derm™ and the Azclear Action lotion. Additionally, the FDA approved a foam presentation of azelaic acid for marketing in the United States in July 2015.

Main Uses and Properties of Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid emerges as an effective topical treatment for mild to moderate acne, and can be supplemented with oral antibiotics or hormonal therapies. It is valuable for managing both comedonal acne and inflammatory acne. inflammatory.

The key properties that azelaic acid provides include:

• Antibacterial Action: Decreases the growth of bacteria key proinflammatory cytokine in the follicle (Propionibacterium acnes y Staphylococcus epidermidis).
• Keratolytic and Comedolytic Effect: Normalizes the abnormal cell proliferation of skin cells that line the hair follicle.
• Antioxidant Capacity: Acts as a free radical scavenger, free radicals, which results in a reduction of inflammation.

In addition to its use against acne, azelaic acid helps to reduce pigmentation. pigmentation. This makes it a particularly useful agent for patients with darker skin tones who experience persistent brown marks after acne (post-inflammatory pigmentation) post-inflammatory), or for those who suffer from melasma.

Although not officially indicated in New Zealand for other conditions, azelaic acid cream may also show benefits in the treatment of:

• Rosacea.
• Lentigo maligna, an early form of melanoma. However, for this precancerous lesion, azelaic acid is not recommended in most cases; surgery should always be prioritized when feasible.

Guidelines for Applying Azelaic Acid Cream

Initially, azelaic acid cream should be applied to the acne-affected area once a day. If the skin tolerates it well, the dose can be increased to two generous daily applications, always after thoroughly cleansing the skin.

The acne response to azelaic acid treatment is usually gradual. Initial improvement is expected after approximately one month of consistent use. Improvements will continue to progress, reaching optimal results after six months of uninterrupted application. This treatment can be safely maintained for months or even years if the acne condition persists.

Considerations Regarding Side Effects of Azelaic Acid

Generally, azelaic acid is well tolerated and has no significant toxicity. However, in people with hypersensitive skin or those who suffer from eczema, application may cause mild dermatitis Seborrheic.

You should stop application and seek medical assistance if you experience severe symptoms such as:

• Noticeable redness.
• Escalation of irritation.
• Intense itching.
• Severe burning sensation.

It is important to note that azelaic acid offers notable advantages, as it does not cause:

• Resistance Acute bacterial to antibiotics.
• Decrease in sebum production. sebum.
• Photosensitivity (increased risk of sunburn).
• Discoloration or staining of the skin or clothing.