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
June 25, 2012

Pros:

I'm sorry but for me there just weren't any pros

Cons:

Initial stinging
Didn't prevent new breakouts
I don't think it affected my acne very much at all

I was prescribed this cream from my doctor, alongside deoxycycline antibiotic, and must say it just didn't work for me sadly. I atleast thought the cream could prevent further breakouts however I did breakout where I applied the cream. I used it for about 2 weeks religiously but it ran out quite quickly, so instead my doctor prescribed me Duac once daily gel, which i prefer as I have seen improvement on my skin with only a few days use. Maybe this will work for you too!
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March 16, 2012

Pros:

-Dries out pimples quickly.
-Makes your skin very soft.
-It works!

Cons:

-Itching/burning if your face is too dry before applying.

Best topical I have used. Awesome stuff. I feel like my breakouts heal quicker when using Finacea. Marks are vanishing. My skin feels awesome and honestly looked better after one use. I apply it twice a day, morning and night, which might be too much for some people. Make sure you rub it in well so you aren't left with white streaks on your face :) I would definitely recommend this to anyone ready for a change. It is AWESOME.
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March 11, 2012

Pros:

Effective in treating nodules and light acne.

Cons:

Burning/stinging of skin, sometimes lasting all day. Super expensive, even with insurance. Not effective on roseacea or whiteheads.

While this worked for some of my acne - especially stopping nodules - I saw very little difference with my roseacea or whiteheads. The burning sensation became intolerable so I stopped using.
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August 28, 2011
I have been using this item for 3.5 months now. I am not happy with the results. I still have acne. I have been using it inconjunction with Tetralysal antibiotics. The areas affected by acne has changed, before I started is was my t-zone, but now it has moved to my cheeks. Now, I have to start all over again and try a new product and hope that it works :(
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July 7, 2009

Pros:

Definitely clears up inflammatory acne. Results within two weeks!

Cons:

Itches like crazy!!

You only need a dab of this stuff to work and prevent the itchiness.
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June 5, 2009

Pros:

worked pretty fast, got rid of white heads, lightend blemishes significantly and made my skin look healthy and non oily.

Cons:

itches pretty bad for the first 15 minutes.

I really recomend this product to those with mild acne, it will do wonders for your skin.
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March 19, 2009

Pros:

Azelex absorbed quickly into my skin. It worked great for me. No side effects, not even the stinging everyone else seems ot experience. I loved it.

Cons:

The cost, if you don't have insurance is the #1 con for me. I've been out of work for two years, no health insurance, and my skin looks terrible. I'm extremley self conscious. Without health care coverage 20%, 50 grams, $85. I can't manage it.

For me Azelex works. There's nothing worse than walking around with a red face and acne, nothing.
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March 13, 2009

Pros:

affordable, works great, and doesn't leave skin oily like most creams

Cons:

itches for a short while, has to be prescribed

Anyone experiencing acne should give it a try!! Works Great!!
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February 24, 2009

Pros:

Keeps it manageable

Cons:

Doesn't really stop the once a month hormonal breakout.

After I had my daughter I had a horrible experience with cystic acne. I tried all sort of things but because I was BFing I didn't want to take medication. This did not clear it up either. I was getting depressed. I tried laser at my DR's office. Went several times and it worked!!!! But because of the monthly hormone cycle I still have a need for this. It does seem to help. I also wash with Proactive face wash once a day. The sting is very very mild for me so I don't really mind and don't even really notice it.
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January 18, 2009

Pros:

clears skin quickly unlike other products which takes weeks to see a slight difference. Also stays clear if used well

Cons:

Burns, itches, causes red effects, pins and needles effect.

WORKS AMAZING. if you dont mind a little pain to have clear skin buy this stuff.
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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.