Does azelaic acid cause purging?

“It is not as common to experience purging with azelaic acid as it is with ingredients like retinoids and exfoliating acids,” says Dr. Garshick. “Azelaic acid is considered gentle and well-tolerated, even for those with sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.” She explains that while some people may notice mild breakouts when first starting to use azelaic acid, this is often due to the skin adjusting to the product rather than a true acceleration of cell turnover, which typically causes purging.

Does azelaic acid help with acne?

“Azelaic acid can be a great option for someone with sensitive skin, as it tends to be more gentle than other active ingredients (like tretinoin) and is also safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding,” says Dr. Garshick. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tracy Evans primarily recommends azelaic acid for rosacea and melasma , noting that it’s not as effective as other acne-targeted ingredients. Azelaic acid is a versatile ingredient that can improve overall tone and texture, but if acne is your primary concern, we recommend products containing benzoyl peroxide , salicylic acid, or tretinoin.

What’s the best way to use azelaic acid?

Both Dr. Evans and Dr. Garshick recommend using azelaic acid 1-2x a day in your routine. “For those with sensitive skin , I recommend starting a few times per week and gradually increasing frequency as tolerated,” says Dr. Garshick. “Because it is relatively gentle compared to other actives, many people can incorporate it into both their morning and evening routines.” Generally, azelaic acid should be used for six to 12 weeks to see results. “Everything takes longer than expected in the skin, so I always tell patients to try it for three months,” says Dr. Evans. Be sure to give your skin an appropriate testing window to see the results.

Can you use azelaic acid with retinol? What ingredients should you not use it with?

It’s important to know incompatible ingredients before layering actives in your routine. Dr. Evans offers some guidance and says, “Azelaic acid can be drying, so using other drying agents such as vitamin C or retinoids can make the skin dry and flaky.”

The 8 Best Azelaic Acid Products of 2026, According to Dermatologists

A model applying skincare product Anfisa AnDew—the best azelaic acid products — Byrdie

TL:DR

Best Overall: Our top pick is the Shani Darden Skin Care Rescue Serum with 10% Azelaic Acid Complex. This soothing formula helps reduce redness and irritation while brightening skin.
Budget-Friendly: If you’re on a budget, we recommend The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% Cream. This product smooths uneven skin texture and works for all skin types.

Azelaic acid serves many different functions—it can help even tone, smooth skin, and even improve the appearance of rosacea and melasma. “Azelaic acid is often overlooked, but it can be a great option for someone who is dealing with uneven tone, whether it is related to redness or hyperpigmentation, and especially for those with sensitive skin,” reiterates board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick.

To determine the best azelaic acid products, we researched dozens of options online. We considered multiple factors, including ingredients, price point, packaging, and overall results. After reviewing all of the options and consulting with experts, we compiled this list of the best azelaic acid products for every skin type and budget.

Top Picks

Best Overall:

Shani Darden Rescue Serum at Amazon $68

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

The Ordinary Brightening Cream at Amazon $13

Jump to Review

Best for Mature Skin:

SALE

Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10% at Amazon ~~$40~~ $29

Jump to Review

Best for Acne-Prone Skin:

Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster at Amazon $42

Jump to Review

Best for Sensitive Skin:

Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum at Amazon $24

Jump to Review

Best Splurge:

ANFISA Skin ÂN-DEW 10% Azelaic Acid + PHA Serum at Dermstore $196

Jump to Review

Best Cleanser:

Skinfix Acne+ 2% BHA Cleanser at Amazon $35

Jump to Review

Best Toner:

Farmacy Brighten Up Dark Spot Toner at Amazon $34

Jump to Review

Best Overall

Shani Darden Rescue Serum

Credit: Shani Darden

$68 at Amazon $68 at Sephora $68 at Revolve

What We Like

Calms and soothes skin
Hydrating formula
Visibly brightens

What to Consider

Could irritate acne-prone skin

Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, oat kernel, aloe extracts, licorice extract | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

When it comes to dark spots and discoloration, this azelaic acid serum from Shani Darden is our top pick. “Combining the 10% Azelaic Complex with oat kernel and aloe extracts, this serum helps to brighten the skin and improve tone while also calming the skin,” says Dr. Garshick. Each ingredient has a true purpose in the formula, from hyaluronic acid that locks in moisture to aloe extracts that visibly reduce redness in the skin. We also love the simple packaging and easy-to-use pump that dispenses exactly the right amount of product.

Best Budget

The Ordinary Brightening Cream

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension Brightening Cream

Credit: Amazon

$13 at Amazon $13 at Sephora $13 at Ulta

What We Like

Under $15
Oil-free cream formula
Improves uneven skin texture

What to Consider

Can be a little drying

Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, vitamin E | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

When it comes to affordable skincare, it’s rare to find a brand that rivals The Ordinary. Known for their impactful formulas at a reasonable price, it’s easy to see why this product often receives top marks from reviewers online. This cream-like formula gently exfoliates for a soft, even complexion. Dr. Garshick likes that this formula is easy to layer, and she says it’s “great for someone looking for a simple and easy to use azelaic acid formulation that helps brighten and smooth the skin.”

Best for Mature Skin

Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10%

Credit: Amazon

$40

$29 at Amazon $20 at Ulta $20 at Target

What We Like

Smooths fine lines and wrinkles
A little goes a long way
Gently exfoliates without irritation

What to Consider

Strong smell

Key Ingredients: Glycinated azelaic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, coffee extract | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you want your skin to look supple and healthy, this azelaic acid from Naturium will do just the trick. In addition to the star ingredient, this product also contains other derm-recommended ingredients for mature skin types. “This is a great option for mature skin as it pairs a glycerinated azelaic acid complex with niacinamide, vitamin C, and coffee seed extract to improve the overall appearance of skin tone while still being gentle on the skin,” says Dr. Garshick. Reviewers also love that this product absorbs easily and even wears well under makeup.

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster

Credit: Amazon

$42 at Amazon $42 at Sephora $39 at Dermstore

What We Like

Fades blemish marks and dark spots
Fast-absorbing and non-pilling formula
Unclogs pores

What to Consider

May take time to see results

Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, licorice, salicylic acid | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Paula’s Choice is known for creating beloved and effective skincare products, and this azelaic acid formula is no exception. This serum helps even skin tone by reducing the appearance of blemishes and discoloration while clearing congested skin. It’s gentle enough to use twice a day in your skincare routine, and it also layers nicely with makeup and other skincare products. Another plus—it’s also fragrance-free and oil-free.

Best for Sensitive Skin

Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum

Credit: Amazon

$24

$22 at Amazon $22 at Ulta $24 at Anua.com

What We Like

Gentle and lightweight formula
Reduces redness and dark spots
Leaves skin supple and smooth

What to Consider

May take time to see results

Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, hyaluronic acid, blue tansy oil | Size: 1.01 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Anua’s 10% azelaic acid is here to help calm and hydrate sensitive, easily irritated skin. This serum feels weightless on the skin, and the dropper bottle makes for easy application. Plus, the formula features a gentle calming complex with soothing ingredients like green tea leaf water and aloe leaf juice, which are great for sensitive skin. It’s popular with reviewers who deal with rosacea and redness—it calms redness significantly without drying out or irritating the skin.

Best Splurge

ANFISA Skin ÂN-DEW 10% Azelaic Acid + PHA Serum

Credit: Dermstore

$196 at Dermstore $196 at Revolve $196 at Anfisaskin.com

What We Like

Luxe formula with effective ingredients
Minimizes redness and fades dark spots
Lightweight formula

What to Consider

May take time to see results

Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, licorice root extract, PHA gluconolactone | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This serum from Anfisa Skin is designed to help enhance and clarify your skin with gentle exfoliation. While it comes with a high price tag, the results speak for themselves. The comprehensive skin-brightening serum is formulated with azelaic acid and gluconolactone (a polyhydroxy acid) to target unwanted texture and reduce dark spots. You’ll also find licorice root extract and resveratrol—two ingredients that work to even the skin tone and provide antioxidant protection. We also love the sleek packaging, which will look super chic on your vanity.

Best Cleanser

Skinfix Acne+ 2% BHA Cleanser

Credit: Sephora

$35 at Amazon $35 at Sephora $35 at Skinfix.com

What We Like

Gently exfoliates while cleansing
Helps minimize pores and prevent clogging
Minimizes post-acne scarring

What to Consider

Contains multiple active ingredients, may cause irritation to sensitive skin

Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, salicylic acid, niacinamide | Size: 5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you struggle with acne of any kind, the cleanser you choose could help stop breakouts before they emerge. This SkinFix cleanser features azelaic acid, but salicylic acid (BHA) gives this product an added boost to help unclog pores beneath the surface. Simply take a pea-sized amount and lather, then rub into your skin in a circular motion, spending extra time in any irritated areas. Dr. Garshick gives this multitasking cleanser a nod of approval and calls it, “a great option for those dealing with breakouts and post-acne marks.”

Best Toner

Farmacy Brighten Up Dark Spot Toner

Farmacy Brighten Up 3% TXA Dark Spot Toner with Azelaic Acid

Credit: Farmacy

$34

$33 at Amazon $34 at Sephora $34 at Ulta

What We Like

Nondrying, lightweight formula
Reduces the appearance of dark spots
Works for all skin types

What to Consider

Finish is a little sticky

Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, PHA gluconolactone, upcycled tangerine peel | Size: 4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Struggling with dark spots is the worst—but whether that means melasma, sun spots or post-acne scarring, this toner from Farmacy can help treat all of the above. The Brighten Up Toner targets dark spots and evens the skin tone with azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, and vitamin C. Farmacy is also known for creating products inspired by natural ingredients, and this formula is no exception—it contains upcycled tangerine peel to hydrate and smooth skin.

What to Look for in Azelaic Acid Products

Ingredient Concentration: “When choosing an azelaic acid product, it is best to consider the concentration and formulation,” shares Dr. Garshick. “While prescription strengths are typically 15–20%, the highest over-the-counter options are often 10%.” Understanding the percentage of azelaic acid in the product you’re using can help you understand how effective it will be and how your skin may react.
Skin Type: Remember to consider your skin type when selecting an azelaic acid product to add to your skincare routine. As a general rule, Dr. Garshick suggests, “lightweight gels or foams may be better for oily or acne-prone skin, while creams can be more gentle and hydrating for those with dry or sensitive skin.”

FAQ

Does azelaic acid cause purging?

“It is not as common to experience purging with azelaic acid as it is with ingredients like retinoids and exfoliating acids,” says Dr. Garshick. “Azelaic acid is considered gentle and well-tolerated, even for those with sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.” She explains that while some people may notice mild breakouts when first starting to use azelaic acid, this is often due to the skin adjusting to the product rather than a true acceleration of cell turnover, which typically causes purging.
Does azelaic acid help with acne?

“Azelaic acid can be a great option for someone with sensitive skin, as it tends to be more gentle than other active ingredients (like tretinoin) and is also safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding,” says Dr. Garshick. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tracy Evans primarily recommends azelaic acid for rosacea and melasma, noting that it’s not as effective as other acne-targeted ingredients. Azelaic acid is a versatile ingredient that can improve overall tone and texture, but if acne is your primary concern, we recommend products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or tretinoin.
What’s the best way to use azelaic acid?

Both Dr. Evans and Dr. Garshick recommend using azelaic acid 1-2x a day in your routine. “For those with sensitive skin, I recommend starting a few times per week and gradually increasing frequency as tolerated,” says Dr. Garshick. “Because it is relatively gentle compared to other actives, many people can incorporate it into both their morning and evening routines.” Generally, azelaic acid should be used for six to 12 weeks to see results. “Everything takes longer than expected in the skin, so I always tell patients to try it for three months,” says Dr. Evans. Be sure to give your skin an appropriate testing window to see the results.
Can you use azelaic acid with retinol? What ingredients should you not use it with?

It’s important to know incompatible ingredients before layering actives in your routine. Dr. Evans offers some guidance and says, “Azelaic acid can be drying, so using other drying agents such as vitamin C or retinoids can make the skin dry and flaky.”

Meet Our Experts

To write this article, Byrdie consulted the following experts:

Dr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical Center.
Dr. Tracy Evans is a board-certified dermatologist, a fellowship-trained Mohs skin cancer surgeon, and the founder of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology.

Why Trust Byrdie

Austen Tosone is a beauty writer and content creator based in NYC. She has been writing about beauty online for a decade and tests dozens of products every month. Austen has interviewed beauty brand founders, celebrity ambassadors, and influencers about skincare, makeup, and hair. For this story, she compiled a list of top azelaic acid products and reviewed them based on their formula, price, efficacy, and results. She also consulted two dermatologists for this story to provide their professional insights.

Edited by Shannon Stubbs