Published By: Nirtika Pandita

What is Azelaic Acid and its benefits for skin

Another of a natural compound that heals skin effectively

A naturally found compound in some grains such as whey, barley, wheat, and rye, azelaic Acid is the latest trend in skincare treatment. Since the substance is found naturally, it has great benefits for the skin. Industrially azelaic acid is produced by the ozonolysis of oleic acid and naturally produced by Malassezia furfur also known as Pityrosporumovale, which is a yeast that lives on normal skin. And it is the bacterial degradation of nonanoic acid that gives azelaic acid.

The usage of azelaic acid is majorly done to treat mild to moderate acne, which includes both comedonal and inflammatory acne.

How does azelaic acid work?

The application of azelaic acid decreases the production of keratin, a natural substance that promotes the growth of acne bacteria on the skin. The acid works on the skin by removing or killing the acne bacteria, which infects the pores of the skin.

The use of azelaic acid is also done as a topical gel treatment for rosacea since it is a great natural anti-inflammatory. The acid clears the bumps and swelling caused by rosacea.Azelaic acid is also used for skin pigmentation treatments such as melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Azelaic acid is available in gel, foam, and cream form. It is used to treat common skin conditions such as acne and rosacea.

Know the various benefits of azelaic acid

Since it is a naturally found compound in plants and on the skin, it greatly helps in clearing the pores. Often the pores on the skin with over-exposure to the sun, dust, or harsh conditions will lead to the opening up of pores causing the dirt to settle in them. The application of azelaic acid further cleans the pores of the bacteria causing irritation or breakouts on the skin.

Thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, azelaic acid is highly helpful in reducing the inflammation on the skin caused due to harsh weather conditions or over-exposure to sun or dirt. The anti-inflammation further calms the acne on the skin and it tends to become less visible with time and irritates less.

Most importantly, the regular application of azelaic acid is a catalyst in smoothly encouraging the cell turnover on the skin. With the increase in skin cell turnover, the skin heals faster and more quickly.

But be careful with the usage and application, as it may vary depending upon the skin type. That is because acid also has some side effects. It can cause burning of the skin, dryness, and peeling.