Topical Antibacterial
Reviews
3.8
501 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
34.5%
4
31%
3
18.3%
2
8.9%
1
7.3%

Used Azelaic Acid? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
December 28, 2008

Pros:

Reduces amount of new acne, fades red acne scars, evens out skin tone, improves skin texture, controls shine from excess oil.

Cons:

Costly, stings/itches a bit for first 5 minutes after applying.

I stopped using birth control pills a few months ago after being on them for 9 years. My skin became an oil slick and now I have huge problems with blackheads and acne. This product has helped control the oil, hence clearing the acne. Using this product, along with regular washing, exfoliating and extracting has helped clear some acne so far, but I still get some new pimples. I've only used Azelex for 2-1/2 weeks and am planning to try it for at least 2 months.
December 26, 2008

Pros:

This stuff works pretty well. I've been using it for about 4 weeks. The trick is to put a lot on. Even though this might increase the stinging, putting a lot one will improve inflammation and redness a lot more (it worked this way for me at least).

Cons:

stings...that's about it though

very good at reducing all kinds of acne--but use a lot for maximum results
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November 19, 2008

Pros:

after one day my skin seemed a lot calmer and although i still had redness it wasn't as bad as it was the night before

Cons:

slightly itchiness

i have tried loads of different creams, gels and solutions in the past which have not made the slightest difference and my doctor said they were all the same types so he prescribed me this which is completely different and contains different ingredients. i have only been using it for one day so far however it has made a difference. i hope it continues to get better. also if your in full time education get it from your doctor it will be cheap or free
October 3, 2008

Pros:

nice consistency, no irritation, no refrigeration, no bleaching, no dryness or peeling

Cons:

a little pricey, but it's worth it

I have tried A LOT of acne medications. This is one of my favorites. I experience no irritation whatsoever and it seems to control my acne better than the topical antibiotics I was using prior. No drug works for everyone, but this has worked very well for me. I will continue to use it.
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September 16, 2008

Pros:

Doesn't dry the skin out and really works (for me at least!)

Cons:

Takes a bit of getting used to - it can sting if applied to damp skin or used too frequently.

I LOVE htis product. I have moderate acne and after a month of nightly use it really keeps my spots at bay. I stopped using it last month when I found out I was pregnant and immediately came up with horrible acne. I started it again this week after my doctor told me it was safe and they have already started to clear up - along with a reduction of scars. I know that everyone's skin is different - what works for me may not necessarily work for you - but Azelaic acid is natural, non-drying and has worked where nothing else has on my skin. Give it a go - be patient - only use it at night (any more will cause problems) and be patient!! best wishes
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July 12, 2008
i've been using skinoren for about a month.now i have not see big improvement.maybe 1 or 2 months later my acne wont be in my face.you just use it.maybe it will help u.of course beteer than nothing
July 12, 2008

Pros:

easily absorbed, seems to help

Cons:

slight itching. reduces healing of red spots.

it reduced the redish tone i had on my cheeks, keep using it consistently!!!! i missed using it once and i woke with a break out. i had about 3 major breakouts since using it but overall i think it really works.
June 17, 2008

Pros:

It appears to be working quite well on my skin and i am not nearly as oily asin times past.

Cons:

Burning/itching to the point that I have to wash it off

I like the product but may have to discontinue use if I cant stop the burning
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May 28, 2008

Pros:

Clears blackheads, smaller comedones, and cysts. Starts working immediately. One of the few products my skin isn't allergic to. Works on hormonal acne too!

Cons:

Stings a bit if your skin is still wet when you apply it. Steep price if you don't have insurance, but if you can come up with the money, and have stubborn acne like myself, it's totally worth it.

The best topical I've ever used. This in combination with Rosula, for my body acne, equals the closest thing to a normal complexion I've had since I was on Accutane. (I also highly recommend allergy tests for acne sufferers. I found I am allergic to dairy, since I've given it up I've noticed a huge difference.)
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May 20, 2008

Pros:

Finacea doesn't hurt your skin. I find it cosmetically elegant. I find my skin tone more even and it has helped to quickly heal "underground" cysts and whiteheads alike. I feel like I am finally able to use a product that is 'caring' for my skin.

Cons:

A little irritation at first around my eye area. Don't bring it too close up .

I feel this is a helpful topical. It was the only topical that my skin wasn't a raw, red flaky disaster. I think it reduced the number of blemishes and redness in my skin. It simply feels better to the touch and looks smoother overall.

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.