Treating acne is no easy feat. For years, medical experts and dermatologists have been trying to find just the right ingredients to alleviate the uncomfortable and oftentimes unsightly symptoms of acne. Even though there is no cure for acne, there are certain ingredients that are proving effective. Azelaic acid is one of them.

Azelaic acid can be found in wheat, rye and barley but also forms as a natural substance in yeast-form that lives on normal skin. This acid works as a natural antiseptic that is very effective in killing bacteria on the skin. For this reason, Azelaic acid is used as a topical cream, usually at a concentration of 20%, to treat existing acne outbreaks and prevent future breakouts by killing bacteria. In addition to getting rid of acne causing factors, Azelaic acid also reduces redness and inflammation associated with acne. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, Azelaic acid is also used to treat the skin condition Rosacea as well.

Since there is more than one type of acne, Azelaic acid is only effective in treating acne conditions that are directly infected with bacteria. Some medical studies have been conducted that show Azelaic acid can be used in combination with other creams, such as benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, and tretinoin for more advanced results. Regardless of what form it appears in, the use of Azelaic acid for acne typically takes about one to two months of daily application before actual results show. When used as directed by a doctor, the symptoms of acne as well as the appearance of acne lesions will begin to fade and eventually disappear. While Azelaic acid is not the strongest acne-fighting ingredient on the market, it has not been approved for use on children younger than 12-years-old.

Just like any other acne medication, Azelaic acid is prone to side effects. The most common include stinging, redness, burning sensation and dry skin. For best results, it is important to apply the topical cream only to the areas that are affected by acne and breakouts. Be sure to keep the Azelaic acid away from your eyes, as well as the inside of your nose and mouth. After each application, wash your hands thoroughly. If you experience any other side effects, especially if they cause you any pain or make your skin uncomfortable, tell your doctor immediately.

It is important to remember that the effects of Azelaic acid may work better for some than for others. Because it can take a few months for results to show, you need to be patient. If your acne does not start to clear up or fade after a few months, you may need something stronger and your doctor will more than likely put you on a different type of medication.

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