Does azelaic acid cause skin purging? If you’re thinking about including azelaic acid in your routine then you need to understand how it works.

One popular concern among the skincare community is about this active ingredient’s potential to cause skin purging. There’s a lot of debate as to if this is true or if it’s just another skincare myth.

The good news is that azelaic acid is a gentle skincare product that can help clear up your skin from acne, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation. Now, the trick is, in the process of delivering these amazing results, it may trigger more breakouts (skin purging) at the initial stage.

But the positive transformative benefits it delivers are nothing compared to the initial breakouts you may experience. These breakouts are only an indication that the products work effectively.

Let’s explore skin purging, how azelaic acid works, and how you can use it effectively for beautiful, healthy skin!

Key Takeaways: Does Azelaic Acid Cause Skin Purging?

Yes, azelaic acid can cause skin purging, particularly for sensitive or acne-prone skin. This happens because azelaic acid speeds up skin cell turnover, pushing out impurities and clogged pores to the surface.

While these temporary breakouts may resemble regular acne, they are a sign that the product is working to clear out underlying issues. Skin purging typically lasts 4–6 weeks, after which the skin adjusts. If breakouts persist or worsen beyond this timeframe, consult a professional.

Understanding Azelaic Acid

This is an organic compound that’s effective for treating a variety of skin conditions, such as acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, and inflammation. It’s generally considered safe and gentle, with minimal side effects.

Little wonder it’s one, if not the only, skincare active recommended for treating hyperpigmentation in pregnancy. You’ll typically find it incorporated into products like gels, creams, serums, and face/body washes in concentrations ranging from 10-20%.

In all, when formulated well, this can be an effective product for achieving blemish-free and radiant skin.

Azelaic Acid Benefits

Below are the incredible benefits of this versatile compound;

• Improves the appearance of acne and reduces breakouts.
• Soothes irritation and redness caused by inflammation.
• Reduces hyperpigmentation caused by acne breakouts, and sun damage, and promotes even skin tone.
• Clears clogged pores and eliminates blackheads.
• Exfoliates and removes dead skin cells that dull the skin.
• Its antioxidant properties help protect the skin from free radicals that can cause damage.
• Improves skin texture
• Promotes overall healthy and radiant skin.

How Does Azelaic Acid Work For Your Skin?

Azelaic acid is a versatile and highly effective skincare ingredient that can help improve skin conditions like acne and rosacea. How?

It contains anti-inflammatory properties that combat free radicals that cause flare-ups. It also disrupts the production of acne-causing bacteria and reduces acne breakouts.

Azelaic acid stimulates the shedding of dead skin cells in hair follicles. This prevents clogged pores, which is crucial for reducing acne breakouts. Furthermore, azelaic acid reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production.

Overall, azelaic acid is generally well tolerated by all skin types. However, due to how it accelerates skin cell turnover, you may experience purging. Let’s dive a bit deeper into what skin purging is.

What is Skin Purging?

Skin purging occurs when the skin is in overdrive, pushing out unwanted elements underneath to speed up its recovery process. It’s almost as if the skin has a mind of its own and is on a break-out spree.

Don’t be alarmed! This may only last for 4-6 weeks.

So, what causes skin purging? Skin purging may occur when introducing a new skincare product (actives) such as azelaic acid, retinoids, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide etc.

It may manifest in the form of whiteheads, blackheads, and dry and flaky skin. This is quite different from regular breakouts which are mostly caused by factors like stress and hormonal change.

Overall, skin purging can be overwhelming but it’s typically a sign that your actives are doing the work of kicking the bad guys out from underneath your skin. However, if purging prolongs beyond 4-6 weeks kindly consult your skincare professional.

Does Azelaic Acid Cause Skin Purging?

The simple answer is yes. Azelaic acid may cause skin purging, especially for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Azelaic acid is a gentle exfoliant that works by stripping away dead skin cells that clog the pores and cause acne breakouts. According to this research PubMedCentral, the average human skin cell turnover rate typically ranges from 28 to 56 days.

Factors such as age contribute to the duration. For instance, for young individuals/teenagers, it would typically take 28 days whereas in older adults, it may be up to 50-84 days.

Now, azelaic acid as an exfoliant speeds up this natural exfoliation process, leading to a more rapid skin cell turnover. This pushes out existing clogged pores and impurities to the surface faster than normal (also known as skin purging).

These flare-ups may resemble the typical acne breakouts but they’re not. The breakouts indicate that the product is working to clear out impurities from underneath your skin.

How Long Does It Take for Azelaic Acid to Stop Purging?

Purging lasts for about 4 to 6 weeks after which the skin adjusts. If breakouts persist beyond this time frame or worsen and become painful please discontinue use and consult a professional as this may be a sign of an adverse reaction rather than purging.

Overall, when used right, azelaic acid can work wonders for your skin.

How To Use Azelaic Acid In Your Routine + Expert Tips

Here’s how to use this ingredient in your routine.

• Cleanse your face with a gentle face wash and follow up with the hydrating and non-exfoliating toner.
• Apply 2-3 drops of this azelaic acid serum and gently pat your face to blend it into your skin.
• Wait for 2-4 minutes for your skin to absorb this product fully before proceeding with other steps in your routine.
• Remember every good skincare routine ends with using sunscreen, especially in the morning.

By following this simple beginner-friendly skincare routine, you can reap the benefits of this serum and transform your skin.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when using azelaic acid or any new product in your routine.

• Always patch-test new products on the inside of your forearm 24 hours before using them fully.
• Introduce new products into your routine slowly. Start once a week, then increase the use frequency once your skin tolerates the ingredient.

Overall, skincare is a journey, not a sprint. So, use your products as recommended and be patient to follow through so you can reap the benefits.

Potential Side Effects of Topical Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is a gentle and effective active for the treatment of hyperpigmentation, acne and rosacea. However, it may have the following side effects;

• redness
• stinging
• irritation
• dryness and peeling
• changes in skin colour
• allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, hives, and dizziness

The bottom line, while azelaic acid is effective for many skin conditions, being aware of its potential side effects is crucial for safe use.

So, if you notice any adverse effects from your use of azelaic acid, kindly discontinue use and seek professional help.

Conclusion

In conclusion, incorporating azelaic acid into your skincare routine can be a transformative experience for achieving clearer and healthier skin. While it may cause mild skin purging in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, this reaction is temporary and a sign that the product is effectively working to clear out impurities.

As you embark on this skincare journey, prioritize gentle application and consistent use. With the right approach, azelaic acid can be your ally in achieving beautiful, blemish-free skin. Always consult with a dermatologist if you have concerns or if adverse reactions persist beyond the initial adjustment phase.

FAQs: Does Azelaic Acid Cause Skin Purging?

Does azelaic acid make you break out more?

Azelaic acid can cause a temporary increase in breakouts, known as “purging,” especially when you first start using it. This happens because it speeds up skin cell turnover, pushing out impurities and clogged pores.

However, this is usually a sign that the product is working, and the breakouts should subside within a few weeks.

Does acne come back after stopping azelaic acid?

Yes, acne may return after discontinuing azelaic acid, especially if the underlying causes of acne are still present. Azelaic acid helps manage acne by reducing inflammation and bacteria, so stopping its use might allow these factors to contribute to breakouts again.

What not to pair with azelaic acid?

Avoid pairing azelaic acid with other strong exfoliants like retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), as this can increase irritation and sensitivity. Overall, it’s best to keep your routine gentle when using azelaic acid

Does azelaic acid damage the skin barrier?

No, azelaic acid is generally considered safe and does not damage the skin barrier when used correctly. It is a gentle exfoliant that can help improve skin health by reducing inflammation and promoting clearer skin.

Is it bad to use azelaic acid every day?

Using azelaic acid daily is typically safe for most skin types. However, if you experience irritation or excessive dryness, consider reducing the frequency of application. Starting with every other day can help your skin adjust before moving to daily use.