What Is It?
Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains like barley, wheat, and rye. It helps clear acne by slowing the growth of acne bacteria and reducing inflammation in the skin.
It is usually applied twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. You may start seeing improvement in your acne after 4 weeks of treatment.
Efficacy
Strength of Evidence
Average 68% reduction in acne after 18 weeks
Side Effects
Low-Medium
Low-medium side effects and adverse reactions
Acne.org's Real World Take
At prescription strengths (15 - 20%) studies show it should help reduce mild-to-moderate acne by a significant and noticeable amount after 3 months or so of treatment, so that’s not too shabby. However, it is unlikely to completely clear the skin on its own.