7 best azelaic acid serums to reduce acne and hyperpigmentation

Azelaic acid, a natural acid derived from grains, is packed with anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial benefits. This makes it one of the most popular beauty ingredients used to formulate several skincare products for skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and hyperpigmentation. One of the more popular ways to avail maximum benefits of this naturally occurring acid is by using serums for skin. Face serums not only provide moisture to the skin but also improve its texture and protect it from damage. Regular use of this acid can help reduce acne-causing bacteria and prevent future breakouts. If you want a glass-like clear and radiant skin, incorporate some of the best azelaic acid serums in your skincare routine.

What is azelaic acid?

Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid, which is derived from grains. It can also be found naturally on the skin. This acid helps address several skin concerns. It contains potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne. It also helps improve skin tone and reduce the signs of premature ageing. Additionally, this acid promotes gentle exfoliation, which contributes to smoother and softer skin.

7 best azelaic acid serums for skin

Try the best azelaic acid serums in India to get clearer and healthy skin:

1. Dr. Sheth’s Probiotics & Azelaic Acid Serum

If you are looking for azelaic acid serum for sensitive skin, try this one from Dr. Sheth’s. It is infused with 12 percent azelaic acid, red algae extract, probiotics and 1 percent arginine that helps enhance skin health. It promises to clear clogged pores, replenish skin’s barrier and enhance skin’s texture. Additionally, this acid also promotes cell turnover and strengthens the skin barrier. It claims to be dermatologically formulated, which makes it safe to use on skin.

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Also Read: Best glycolic acid serums for face: 6 top choices for you!

2. Plum 10% Azelaic Acid & Cica Face Serum

This azelaic acid serum for hyperpigmentation from Plum is suitable for sensitive and combination skin. It is infused with the goodness of 10 percent azelaic acid, cica extract and allantoin, which helps fight acne-causing bacteria, reduces roughness and soothes irritated skin. Regular use of this acid can unclog pores. Additionally, it also promises to prevent future breakouts, which leaves you with hydrated and smooth skin texture.

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3. Azeclear Serum

The Azeclear Serum contains azelaic acid, vitamin C and ferulic acid. This is one of the best azelaic acid serums because it claims to reduce the early signs of ageing. Additionally, it also promises to reduce pigmentation and scars. Regular use of this serum can help you get a clearer and smoother skin.

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4. The True Therapy Azelaic Acid Face Serum

The True Therapy Azelaic Acid Face Serum is suitable for skin type. This fragrance free serum contains 10 percent azelaic acid and witch hazel extract. It promises to control acne, reduce sebum production and tackle hyperpigmentation. Additionally, the clear skin serum also improves skin texture and reduces blemishes. Its mattifying properties make your skin look smooth.

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5. Derma Decode 10% Azelaic Acid Serum

Derma Decode 10% Azelaic Acid Serum is formulated by dermatologists, which makes it safe and effective to use. It is free from fragrance, paraben, PEG and allergens. Regular use of this serum may help reduce dark spots, acne marks and uneven skin tone. This serum may even help reduce redness and soothe and brighten your skin.

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6. BAKE 10% Niacinamide + Azelaic Acid Face Serum

BAKE 10% Niacinamide + Azelaic Acid Face Serum may help treat acne, reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Packed with niacinamide, azelaic acid and kojic acid, this serum may help promote clearer skin, lighten pigmentation, reduce melanin production and lead to radiant complexion. It may even exfoliate your skin, and prevent excessive oiliness and shine.

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7. Neemli Naturals Azelaic Spotless Concentrate Serum

Neemli Naturals Azelaic Spotless Concentrate Serum may help target blemishes, acne scars and hyperpigmentation. This serum is vegan, cruelty-free and non-comedogenic, which ensures that it can gently treat acne and promote clear skin without causing any harsh effects. Regular use of this serum may even help calm inflammation, address rosacea and refine skin texture.

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How to choose the best azelaic acid serums?

Here is a guide to help you choose the right azelaic acid serum for your skin:

• Check the concentration: The concentration of azelaic acid normally ranges between 10 per cent to 20 per cent according to the Brenner’s Encyclopedia of Genetics. For sensitive skin, use serums that contain 10 per cent of azelaic acid. To treat acne or hyperpigmentation, use serums that contain high concentrations of this acid.
• Ingredients: Pay attention to the formulation of the serum. Ensure that it contains niacinamide, salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C along with azelaic acid. Avoid serums that contain irritants like fragrances, preservatives or alcohols.
• Skin type: Opt for a lightweight and non-comedogenic serum for acne-prone skin. Go for serums that contain hydrating ingredients for dry skin and look for serums that contain lower concentrations of azelaic acid for sensitive skin.
• Reviews: Buy the product from trusted brands and look for customer feedback to gather information about the product.
• Price and value: Evaluate the price and the benefits of the product. Choose the product that can provide better results at reasonable prices.

How to use azelaic acid serums?

• Before applying the serum to your skin, perform a patch test. Start by cleansing your face and then drying it. Then take a few drops of the serum and apply it on a smaller area of your skin. Leave it for 24 hours to check if you experience any redness or burning sensation.
• If you do not notice any adverse effects, apply a thin layer of the serum to your face.
• Increase the frequency of the application if you notice any positive results.

Also Read: 6 best skin serums for a glowing and radiant look

How to treat acne?

The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests a few tips for treating different types of acne:

• If you have whiteheads and blackheads, consider using retinoids. You can also use a benzoyl peroxide wash to get rid of excess P.acne bacteria.
• To treat pimples, wash your face twice daily with a face wash that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
• If you have pus-filled pimples, wash your face with acne products that contain benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Consider visiting a dermatologist if you do not see any effective results in six to eight weeks.

Benefits of azelaic acid

1. Acne prevention: Azelaic acid prevents the growth of acne-causing bacteria. It also reduces the development of comedones and provides you with clearer and smoother skin.
2. Relief from rosacea: This acid provides relief from rosacea, a skin condition which causes redness on the face. The presence of anti-inflammatory properties that helps reduce redness and soothe irritated skin.
3. Tackles hyperpigmentation: It also reduces melanin production, the pigment which is responsible for hyperpigmentation. Regular use of this acid can provide brighter and even skin tone.
4. Gentle exfoliation: It also promotes gentle exfoliation which leads to shedding of the dead skin cells. Additionally, it helps enhance skin texture and leaves you with softer skin.
5. Promote skin health: Regular use of azelaic acid promotes overall skin health. It addresses acne, inflammation and hyperpigmentation.

Are there any side effects of azelaic acid for skin?

A better understanding of the side-effects of azelaic acid can help you prevent future skin damage. Consider the following points before using it on your skin:

• Irritation: A mild burning sensation, redness or itching may occur when you first use this acid.
• Dryness: This acid promotes gentle exfoliation which can result in mid dryness and peeling. So, using the best moisturisers for skin can help you maintain its moisture balance.
• Increase sensitivity to sunlight: Azelaic acid for skin may increase sensitivity to sunlight. They use the best sunscreen as a protection barrier.
• Allergic reactions: Consider doing a patch test before applying the product on your face as it may cause allergic reactions.
• Temporary hyperpigmentation: It helps exfoliate your skin, which may result in temporary hyperpigmentation if you have darker skin tone.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• Is azelaic acid good for the skin?

According to a study published in Drugs, a peer-reviewed medical journal states that azelaic acid can help treat comedonal acne and inflammatory acne. It can also treat hyperpigmentation and contribute to even-looking skin.

• Can I use azelaic acid serum daily?

It is safe to use azelaic acid serums daily but if you have sensitive skin, consider using it on alternate days. According to the Journal of Dermatology Treatment, azelaic acid contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help treat rosacea, acne vulgaris and other such skin-related conditions.

(Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we make a constant effort to break the clutter for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by the editorial team but use your discretion and an expert’s opinion before using them. Their price and availability may differ from the time of publication. If you buy something using these links in the story, we may earn a commission.)

Best azelaic acid serums

Top Features Compared	Skin type	Benefits
Dr. Sheth's Probiotics & Azelaic Acid Serum For Highly Sensitive Skin | Improves Skin Texture & Reduces Irritation | Lightweight & Non-Greasy | For Women & Men | 30 mL	All	Pores
Plum 10% Azelaic Acid & Cica Face Serum | Fights Acne | Calms Inflammation | Lightweight & Non-sticky | Fragrance-Free | 100% Vegan | 30ml	Combination, sensitive	Hyperpigmentation
The True Therapy 10% Azelaic Acid Face Serum with Witch Hazel Extract for Anti-inflammatory, Cystic Acne, Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation, Reduce Redness, Excess Oil & Breakout – 30 ml	Combination	Pores
Derma Decode 10% Azelaic Acid Serum for Acne and Marks with Kojic Acid for Glowing Skin | Soothing serum for Dark-Spots, Redness, Hyperpigmentation & Blemishes | Helps Inflammation, Rosacea (30ml X1)	All	Acne, rosacea, skin texture, clarity
BAKE 10% Niacinamide + Azelaic Acid Face Serum for Acne Marks, Dark Spots & Open Pores | Reduces Active Acne, Blemishes | 30ml	All	Acne mark, dark spots, pigmentation
Neemli Naturals Azelaic Spotless Concentrate Serum Moisturizes Skin, Unclog Pores, Combat Acne & Rosacea Suits All Skin Type, 15 Ml (Pack Of 1)	Oily, acne-prone skin, normal, combination	Anti-acne