23 Oct Azelaic Acid Singapore: Benefits, Products and How to Use It
Azelaic Acid in Singapore: Benefits, Popular Products and How to Use It
Updated August 2026
By Dr Rachel Ho, MBBS, Master of Medicine, Founder of The Skin Longevity Clinic
Azelaic acid has moved from being a relatively overlooked medical ingredient to one of the most popular active ingredients in skincare with brands like Anua, Purito, The Ordinary and Paula’s Choice launching azelaic acid serums and creams.
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Given azelaic acid’s multitasking benefits, its rising popularity in skincare, as a medication is understandable. In fact, a 2023 systematic review found that topical azelaic acid was more effective than placebo for acne, rosacea and melasma1. In the clinic, I used azelaic acid medication to treat acne, inflammation and dark spots or hyperpigmentation, in conjunction with in-clinic treatments like chemical peels, lasers, LDM therapy and LED light.
The effectiveness of azelaic acid products however, lies in its formulation. Factors such as concentration of azelaic, pH, dissolved fractions and vehicles play a major role in determining the efficacy of the product. These differences result in why users report different experiences and results with using azelaic acid skincare.
Azelaic acid at a glance
Azelaic acid summary
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is azelaic acid used for? | It is used mainly for acne, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, papulopustular rosacea and selected cases of melasma. |
| Can it treat acne and acne marks together? | Yes. It may improve active acne and flat brown post acne marks. |
| Does it treat acne scars? | It does not rebuild the lost collagen responsible for indented acne scars. |
| Is 20% always better than 10%? | No. Concentration, formulation, tolerability and consistent application all influence results. |
| Can sensitive skin use it? | Many people tolerate it well, but stinging, dryness and irritation remain possible. |
| Can it be used during pregnancy? | Medical reviews include topical azelaic acid among the options for acne during pregnancy and breastfeeding.[8] |
| How long does it take to work? | Clinical studies commonly assess improvement after approximately 12 to 16 weeks. |
| Which products contain it? | Popular examples include Anua, Purito, The Ordinary and Paula’s Choice, while Skinoren is a medicated 20% cream. |
Azelaic acid is particularly useful when active acne, inflammation and post acne pigmentation occur together.
For a wider overview of skincare active ingredients, read my guide to active ingredients in skincare. My article on the best skincare ingredients for acne prone skin explains how azelaic acid compares with retinoids, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
What is azelaic acid?
Azelaic acid is a saturated dicarboxylic acid. It is neither an alpha hydroxy acid nor a beta hydroxy acid, despite having the word acid in its name. It is also distinct from retinoids and topical antibiotics.
Its biological actions include anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, pigment regulating and keratinisation normalising effects2. These overlapping properties explain why it appears in products intended for acne, rosacea, redness and uneven pigmentation.
Azelaic acid generally causes less exfoliation than glycolic or salicylic acid. However, stronger concentrations and multi active formulas can still cause dryness, stinging and dermatitis.
Azelaic acid works through several pathways. It can calm inflammation, normalise pore-blocking skin-cell turnover and reduce excessive melanin production.
How does azelaic acid work?
Azelaic acid reduces inflammation
Azelaic acid influences inflammatory pathways and reduces the formation of reactive oxygen species in the skin. This behavior of azelaic acid supports its use in inflammatory acne and papulopustular rosacea2. Azelaic acid however, does not treat all causes of facial redness or sensitivity. Eczema, contact dermatitis, perioral dermatitis require different medical management.
Azelaic acid reduces acne associated microorganisms
Azelaic acid has antimicrobial activity against organisms associated with acne, including Cutibacterium acnes. Unlike topical antibiotics, topical azelaic acid also helps regulate the abnormal accumulation of cells inside the follicle2,3. Topical azelaic acid is recognised as an adjunct for acne treatment; alongside other medications such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide and in-clinic treatments like chemical peels, lasers, radiofrequency microneedling and LED light therapy3.
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Azelaic acid reduces blocked pores
Azelaic acid helps normalise abnormal keratinisation which contributes to blackheads, whiteheads and inflammatory acne. It can be also be combined with salicylic acid, oil soluble acid that removes trapped oil and dirt from the pores.
Related blogpost:
A Complete Guide to Exfoliating Acids in Skincare
Azelaic reduces excess pigment production
Azelaic acid inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production2. This makes it useful as a skincare active for hyperpigmentation such as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma2. However, more complex and deeper hyperpigmentation often require a combination of actives and treatments as pico laser treatments, chemical peels, PRX Plus, tranexamic acid therapy and radiofrequency microneedling.
Related blogpost:
Hyperpigmentation Disorders: Causes, Types, Treatments
Azelaic acid has its strongest clinical roles in acne, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and papulopustular rosacea. It may also form part of a broader melasma treatment plan.
What conditions can azelaic acid treat?
Azelaic acid for acne
Azelaic acid can help mild to moderate comedonal and inflammatory acne. It addresses inflammation, pore blockage and acne associated microorganisms without functioning as a topical antibiotic.
Its combination of acne and pigment regulating effects makes it especially useful when breakouts leave persistent brown marks. Moderate, severe or scarring acne usually requires a more comprehensive medical treatment plan2,3.
Azelaic acid can also improve active acne and brown post acne marks, but it is insufficient for more severe or inflammatory types of acne, which require further medical treatments.
The Skin Longevity Clinic’s guide to acne treatment in Singapore explains how active lesions, inflammation, barrier health and scarring risk are assessed together.
Azelaic acid for post acne marks
Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation refers to flat brown or grey marks left after inflammation. It is different from a depressed acne scar, which is caused by loss and remodelling of collagen.
A clinical study of 15% azelaic acid gel reported improvement in acne and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation over 16 weeks4. Another study conducted in 2024 also found improvement in post acne erythema and pigmentation, with relatively few adverse reactions in the study population5.
Azelaic acid can fade flat post inflammatory hyperpigmentation but it cannot treat depressed or atrophic acne scars.
Azelaic acid for rosacea
The evidence for azelaic acid is strongest for papulopustular rosacea, which causes inflamed bumps and pustules on a background of redness. 15% azelaic acid gel and foam formulations have been studied for this form of rosacea1,6.
Azelaic acid can improve rosacea.
Rosacea can resemble acne, irritated sensitive skin and perioral dermatitis. Read my guide to rosacea symptoms, triggers and treatments before assuming that persistent redness is acne.
Azelaic acid for melasma and hyperpigmentation
Azelaic acid has also been evaluated as a treatment for melasma. A 2023 systematic review and meta analysis found that azelaic acid MAY produce improvements comparable with hydroquinone in some studies, although the included trials varied in design and duration7.
My clinic guide to hyperpigmentation treatment for Asian skin explains why melasma, freckles, sun spots, PIH and deeper dermal pigmentation require different approaches.
Popular azelaic acid products differ in texture, concentration and supporting ingredients. Compare the complete formula rather than choosing solely by percentage or brand popularity.
Popular azelaic acid skincare products
Several 10% cosmetic formulations have become popular with skincare users due to their lightweight, serum like textures and accessibility. Their concentration may look similar, but their formulations are quite different.
The list of popular azelaic acid skincare from Anua, Purito, The Ordinary and prescription Skinoren cream explains these formulation differences.
Popular azelaic acid skincare product
Product name
Azelaic acid information
Other notable ingredients
Consideration
Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
Marketed with 10% azelaic acid
Hyaluronic acid, cica and blue tansy
Lightweight serum format aimed at blemish prone and redness prone skin
Purito Seoul Azelaic Acid 10 Kojic Tea Tree Serum
Contains 10% azelaic acid
Kojic acid and tea tree
Combines several acne and pigmentation focused actives
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Contains 10% azelaic acid
Silicone based suspension
Cream like, matte texture that may pill with some layered routines
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
Contains 10% azelaic acid
Salicylic acid and supporting extracts
Combines azelaic acid with a pore exfoliating active
Skinoren Cream 20%
Medicated 20% azelaic acid cream
Cream vehicle
Stronger medical formulation with more direct clinical evidence
| Product name | Azelaic acid information | Other notable ingredients | Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum | Marketed with 10% azelaic acid | Hyaluronic acid, cica and blue tansy | Lightweight serum format aimed at blemish prone and redness prone skin |
| Purito Seoul Azelaic Acid 10 Kojic Tea Tree Serum | Contains 10% azelaic acid | Kojic acid and tea tree | Combines several acne and pigmentation focused actives |
| The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% | Contains 10% azelaic acid | Silicone based suspension | Cream like, matte texture that may pill with some layered routines |
| Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster | Contains 10% azelaic acid | Salicylic acid and supporting extracts | Combines azelaic acid with a pore exfoliating active |
| Skinoren Cream 20% | Medicated 20% azelaic acid cream | Cream vehicle | Stronger medical formulation with more direct clinical evidence |
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% remains one of the most popular introductory azelaic acid products. It has a cream like, silicone rich texture and claims improve the visible appearance of uneven tone and texture.
Its smooth, matte finish may suit oilier skin, but it can pill when several serums, moisturisers and sunscreens are layered over it. I previously reviewed this product in my guide to The Ordinary skincare products. Four weeks of personal use did not produce a noticeable change in my skin though. For perspective, most medical studies showing improvement in acne, rosacea and pigmentation have used 15% or 20% formulations over longer treatment periods.
Azelaic acid 10% vs 15% vs 20%: higher strength does not automatically mean better results. Diagnosis, formulation, tolerability and consistent use all influence treatment response.
Does concentration matter? Azelaic acid 10% vs 15% vs 20%
Most clinical trials have examined azelaic acid at concentrations of 15% or 20%1. Ten percent formulations dominate cosmetic skincare, but they have not been studied as extensively for medical conditions2.
Azelaic acid 10% vs 15% vs 20%table
| Concentration | Common form | Typical role | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | Cosmetic serum, booster or suspension | Mild congestion, uneven tone and introductory use | Product texture and supporting ingredients vary widely |
| 15% | Medicated gel or foam in some markets | Acne and papulopustular rosacea | May sting when applied to sensitive or inflamed skin |
| 20% | Medicated cream | Acne and selected pigment concerns | Stronger concentration with more clinical evidence |
A higher concentration may cause more irritation and is not always easier to formulate elegantly. A well tolerated 10% serum can improve user compliance compared to a stronger cream that triggers irritation.
Azelaic acid can be used in the morning or evening. Apply it within a simple routine and introduce it gradually when the skin is sensitive or already using other active ingredients.
How to use azelaic acid
Azelaic acid is usually applied after cleansing and before moisturiser. Follow the instructions for the individual formulation because recommended application frequency can differ.
A simple routine may look like this:
Skincare routine with azelaic acid
| Morning | Evening |
|---|---|
| Gentle cleanser | Gentle cleanser |
| Azelaic acid | Azelaic acid or another active |
| Moisturiser | Moisturiser |
| Broad spectrum sunscreen |
Apply a thin layer rather than using a large amount. More product does not accelerate the result and may increase stinging or dryness.
How often should azelaic acid be used?
Many products are designed for daily use. Medicated formulations may be directed for twice daily application, while sensitive skin may need a slower introduction- always check with your doctor first!
Should azelaic acid be applied before or after moisturiser?
Azelaic acid is commonly placed before moisturiser. Applying moisturiser first can buffer the active when the skin burns or stings easily.
Can azelaic acid be used in the morning?
Azelaic acid can be used in the morning or evening.
How long does azelaic acid take to work?
Clinical trials that assess acne, rosacea and pigmentation outcomes after approximately 12 to 16 weeks show improved inflammation and hyperpigmentation4-6.
Can azelaic acid be combined with other ingredients?
Azelaic acid is compatible with many skincare ingredients. Here are some tips I share with my patients in the clinic:
Azelaic acid skincare combinations
| Combination | General guidance |
|---|---|
| Azelaic acid and niacinamide | Usually compatible and often found in the same serum |
| Azelaic acid and vitamin C | Can be used together, although separating them may reduce stinging |
| Azelaic acid and retinoids | Can form part of the same plan, often at different times or on alternate nights |
| Azelaic acid and salicylic acid | Can reduce clogged pores |
| Azelaic acid and benzoyl peroxide | Used in acne treatment, with separate applications |
| Azelaic acid and kojic acid | Both target pigmentation, but the combination is potentially irritating |
| Azelaic acid and tranexamic acid | May be combined for selected pigmentation concerns like melasma |
Purito and Paula’s Choice illustrate why this section process is important. Both contain 10% azelaic acid, but one adds kojic acid and tea tree while the other adds salicylic acid.
Is azelaic acid suitable during pregnancy?
Azelaic acid is a topical option for mild to moderate acne during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Topical absorption is low, although available pregnancy data remain less extensive than many consumers assume8.
Also remember to review the complete formulation rather than evaluating azelaic acid in isolation. A combination serum may contain salicylic acid, retinoids or other ingredients that are contraindicated in pregnancy.
Read my pregnancy skincare guide for a broader review of ingredients used during pregnancy.
Common azelaic acid side effects include temporary stinging, dryness, redness and itching. Persistent burning or worsening dermatitis suggests irritation rather than successful treatment.
What are the side effects of azelaic acid?
Common side effects of azelaic acid include:
• Stinging
• Burning
• Dryness
• Itching
• Redness
• Scaling
Does azelaic acid cause purging?
Purging is a phenomenon when increased cell turnover causes the microcomedones under the skin to be brought to the surface of the skin. Azelaic acid increases cell turnover, so it may cause purging in some users. For more about purging and examples of skincare ingredients that can cause this, please read Is Your Skin Purging or Breaking Out? Acne Purging Explained.
Azelaic acid may be especially useful when acne, inflammation and pigmentation overlap. It is also commonly considered within pregnancy-compatible acne routines after the full product is reviewed.
When azelaic acid may not be enough
Topical azelaic acid is useful, but it can be insufficient for the following conditions:
• Moderate to severe, inflammatory acne
• Persistent facial readiness or rosacea
• Allergic or irritant contact dermatitis
• Melasma
At The Skin Longevity Clinic, acne activity, pigmentation, inflammation, barrier health and the current skincare routine are assessed together. This helps determine whether azelaic acid should be used alone, combined with another topical or replaced with a different treatment.
Dr Rachel Ho’s clinical perspective on azelaic acid skincare
Azelaic acid is one of the more versatile ingredients for patients whose concerns overlap. I find this ingredient useful when acne, post acne pigmentation and sensitivity occur together.
The rise of products from Anua, Purito and other Korean skincare brands has made azelaic acid more accessible. However, the formulas in these products contain less than 15% azelaic acid, which has been well evidenced to treat rosacea, acne and hyperpigmentation. Further complicating analysis is that these popular azelaic acid skincare products also contain botanical extracts and other actives. The percentage of azelaic acid is only aspect of the formula that determines its effectiveness and safety profile. Azelaic acid performs best when it is matched to the correct diagnosis and used within a routine the skin can tolerate.
Takeaway for azelaic acid skincare review
15% and 20% Azelaic acid has credible evidence for acne, papulopustular rosacea and selected pigmentation concerns. Its usefulness is greatest when inflammation, breakouts and post inflammatory pigmentation occur together.
Popular products such as Anua, Purito, The Ordinary and Paula’s Choice contain 10% azelaic acid and make the ingredient easier to access. However, their formulas are not as extensively evidenced.
- References
King S, Campbell J, Rowe R, et al. A systematic review to evaluate the efficacy of azelaic acid in the management of acne, rosacea, melasma and skin ageing. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2023;22:2650 to 2662. PMID: 37550898. - Sauer N, Oślizło M, Brzostek M, et al. The multiple uses of azelaic acid in dermatology: mechanism of action, preparations and potential therapeutic applications. Advances in Dermatology and Allergology. 2023;40:716 to 724.
- Reynolds RV, Yeung H, Cheng CE, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2024;90:1006.e1 to 1006.e30. PMID: 38300170.
- Kircik LH. Efficacy and safety of azelaic acid gel 15% in the treatment of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and acne. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2011;10:586 to 590.
- Shucheng H, Zhou X, Du D, et al. Effects of 15% azelaic acid gel in the management of post inflammatory erythema and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation in acne vulgaris. Dermatology and Therapy. 2024;14:1293 to 1314. PMID: 38734843.
- Elewski BE, Fleischer AB Jr, Pariser DM. A comparison of 15% azelaic acid gel and 0.75% metronidazole gel in papulopustular rosacea. Archives of Dermatology. 2003;139:1444 to 1450.
- Albzea W, AlRashidi R, Alkandari D, et al. Azelaic acid versus hydroquinone for managing melasma. Cureus. 2023;15:e41796. PMID: 37457606.
- Ly S, Kamal K, Manjaly P, et al. Treatment of acne vulgaris during pregnancy and lactation. Dermatology and Therapy. 2023;13:115 to 130.
- Anua. Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum. Official product information, accessed August 2026.
- Purito Seoul. Azelaic Acid 10 Kojic Tea Tree Serum. Official product information, accessed August 2026.
- The Ordinary. Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%. Official product information, accessed August 2026.
- Paula’s Choice. 10% Azelaic Acid Booster. Official product information, accessed August 2026.
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