Topical Antibacterial
Reviews
3.8
506 Reviews
Topical Antibacterial
Efficacy
68%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Topical Antibacterial
Side Effects
Low-Medium
Topical Antibacterial
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.
Topical Antibacterial
How to Get It
Azelaic acid is available in 15% - 20% by prescription. Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this medication. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one. Azelaic acid is also available over-the-counter in strengths 10% and lower. Here are some places you can find it online.
Read All About Azelaic Acid
Compare To Other Treatments
5
34.6%
4
30.8%
3
18.2%
2
8.9%
1
7.5%

Used Azelaic Acid? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
May 12, 2009

Pros:

I have used the product for only a couple of weeks. Have not experienced any stinging or burning. I am using it for brown spots and reddening on the cheeks.

Cons:

None

Will continue to use it for a couple of months to see if it lightens the discoloraton. So far, the product is easy to use and there appear to be no side affects.
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May 20, 2008

Pros:

I am on my 12th day using Finacea for acne.I noticed results within a couple of days. It cleared my blackheads,its lightening my scars and my skin texture is brighter.It also controlling my breakouts.

Cons:

very minor itching

I went to get laser treatment on an acne scar gone bad on my face(from squeezing/picking)at a Stanford skin clinic. The Dr's immediatly recommended Finacea and gave me samples and a prescription along with a topical bleaching cream to speed up the healing. I was hesitant and have been holding on to the prescription paper not filled yet. I have been using the samples. I am veryimpressed with the results I am now getting it filled. My face is clear and my dark scars have faded. I can give up my concealer.I plan to use this continually. I use a mild cleanser and remove makeup with witch Hazel and use Finacea under my moisturizer/sunscreen. I drink more water.I have used lots of prods,proactiv and antibiotics etc nothing compares to the gentle and fast results of Finaea. I have always had mild acne that always leaves dark scars in my teens,20s&30s. I am now 42. Everyone thinks I am 25 I always thought it was because I had acne.I now like what I see when I look in the mirror!w/insurance/$10
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September 20, 2017
Best treatment I've ever found
I have tried everything for my acne, including two rounds of roaccutane. I've tried supplements, antibiotics, contraceptive pills... you get the picture. Since my acne was now moderate rather than severe, my GP prescribed Skinoren. Within days my acne was nearly clear. I couldn't believe it! And almost as good, the scars are far less red and I feel more confident without makeup than ever before. The only downside is that when I came off it the acne came back after a couple of months and some of the redness in the scars came back too. However I was only on for 3 or 4 months so will try it for longer this time to see if it clears for good. If not I will just stay on it and apparently it's fine for long term use. Try it!
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April 7, 2016
L O V E
Magic cream!! I completely love this stuff, clears redness and improves texture of skin after one use, have been using this for months and will continue doing so, definitely recommend!
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December 9, 2016
are you still loving the finacea? have you noticed any sort of purging?
April 28, 2015
Just started four days ago
I'm one of those "tried absolutely everything you can think of" acne sufferers, and just began Finacea several days ago after seeing another dermatologist. It seems to clear up cystic pimples and whiteheads pretty quickly overnight, but I still have bad hyper-pigmentation and many blackheads under the skin. I'm hoping it will help but not sure of the best cleanser to use with this or any other tips... the dermo I went to said no cleanser (unrealistic considering I'm a chick and need to wear makeup to cover these mounds) and just SPF protection. It burns and stings a little after a minute of being on your skin but will go away in about 5 minutes or so, and worth it for the morning.
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January 4, 2015
Do not use. No stars.
Hi there, A specialist prescribed this as I have been recently diagnosed with rosacea and at a loss of which products and treatments to try. This product burnt my face. The next morning I woke up with more spots than before, redness and extremely sensitive, dry skin. Do not use or at least test on the inside of your elbow.
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October 21, 2014
LOVE it!
Birth-control pills made a HUGE difference in my cystic acne (life-changing), but I recently stopped taking it because I'm going to start trying to get pregnant soon. Before I was off the BC, I saw a dermatologist who recommended I try Azelex for some melasma as well as a way to treat the impending acne (it's baby-safe). I'm only two weeks off the BC, and so far I've had just 3 tiny bumps on my chin (which is my most problematic area). I realize it's still early days, but the Azelex has also made my skin so smooth and soft! It burned a little only the first time, and I've been applying it at night all over my face and then again on my chin in the mornings. I have GREAT insurance, and it still cost me $150/tube, but I think it might be worth it. If you can afford the price, DEFINITELY GIVE IT A TRY!
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July 6, 2015
Try ordering this cream online from Australia to save heaps!! I only pay AUD $12-$15 at my local Pharmacy. The brand I use is by ego and it's called AZ Clear Lotion from memory it's 20% Azaleaic. I stopped using mine after starting a new skin care range and my skin flared up so I'm back using it twice a day and my skin is perfect and clear.. good luck! HTH
July 28, 2012

Pros:

Reduces inflammation
Kills acne
Gets rid of blackheads
De-clogs pores

Cons:

Slight burning sensation for a few minutes after applying
Dryness

I used to get these clogged pores all over my cheeks and temples that would result in scar-forming acne. I also had a thick formation of blackheads on my nose that would become infected and turn into whiteheads. This is the only product that has cleared my pores and prevented this type of acne. When I first started applying Finacea, I immediately noticed reduced inflammation on my active acne. Thereafter I applied Finacea twice/daily after washing my face. I also applied moisturizer 5-10 minutes after applying Finacea. It took about 4 weeks before I was happy with the result - now my skin is smooth and bump-free. I ordered my Finacea from an online Australian pharmacy (which doesn't require prescription) for about $25. Note: I still suffer the occasional whitehead from shaving, as I don't think Finacea is as effective at preventing this type of acne.
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January 21, 2009

Pros:

Works! I mean seriously works. Great value for money.

I started having trouble with my skin when I turned 21... i was trying everything including expensive visits to the beautician every two weeks for a glycolic peals and topical tretinoin (which was soooo honorable). Anyways, I started to realize that my acne problem was associated with me having sensitive skin / rosacea. I'm now 28 and have found that skinoren is the best treatment for me... unfortunately if i stop using it I suffer breakouts again.... which only further illustrates how good this treatment is.
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January 8, 2009

Pros:

Coulndn't mention any

Cons:

Dries out skin. Burns and leaves skin itchy and red.

I've been using this product for nearly 3 months now and i'm giving up. My skin looks older and ragged due to the drying effect. This product has not been working for me at all!
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.