Can You Mix Azelaic Acid and BHA? A Complete Guide
Azelaic acid and BHA are two powerhouse skincare ingredients, each with their own benefits. But can you mix them? Let’s explore how they work and if it’s safe to combine these acids in your skincare routine.
What is Azelaic Acid and Why Is It Popular?
Azelaic acid is naturally found in grains like barley, wheat, and rye. Today, it’s synthesized for use in skincare due to its stability and effectiveness.
It gently exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. This helps reduce blemishes, spots, and blackheads.
Azelaic acid also targets uneven skin tone by fading dark spots, post-acne marks, sun damage, and melasma. It works to reveal a smoother, younger-looking complexion.
Unlike some acids, azelaic acid has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This means it calms redness and helps with rosacea, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Because of these benefits, azelaic acid has surged in popularity as a multifunctional ingredient for acne-prone and sensitive skin types alike.
If you want to dive deeper into azelaic acid, check out our dedicated blog post for the full scoop.
What is BHA and Why Is It So Effective?
BHA stands for beta hydroxy acid, and the most common BHA in skincare is salicylic acid.
Derived from willow bark, salicylic acid is oil-soluble, meaning it penetrates deep into pores to dissolve excess oil and impurities.
By exfoliating inside the pore lining, BHA helps prevent breakouts and reduces inflammation associated with acne.
It also works on the skin’s surface to shed dead skin cells, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath.
Salicylic acid is well-loved for treating oily, acne-prone skin due to these targeted effects.
If you’re curious about the differences between AHA and BHA, be sure to read our blog post explaining their unique roles.
Can You Use BHA and Azelaic Acid Together?
The short answer is yes, but with caution.
Azelaic acid and BHA each target similar skin concerns like acne, uneven tone, and congestion. Together, they can be a potent combo.
However, layering these two powerful acids directly on top of each other may cause irritation, redness, and increased sensitivity.
To avoid this, experts recommend spacing out their application times by about 30 minutes. This allows your skin’s pH to rebalance and reduces irritation risk.
Another approach is to alternate days or use azelaic acid in the morning and BHA at night.
This way, you get the benefits of both without overwhelming your skin.
We have a detailed blog post on safely using azelaic acid and BHA together — check it out for tips and tricks.
What Should You Avoid Mixing with BHA?
Some ingredients do not play well with BHAs like salicylic acid.
AHAs: Using too many exfoliating acids at once can strip your skin’s natural oils, damaging the skin barrier. This can cause dryness and lead to more breakouts.
Retinol: Both retinol and BHAs are potent actives. Combining them without careful management can cause severe irritation.
Niacinamide: Niacinamide has a neutral pH of 5-7, while BHAs require a more acidic pH to be effective. Mixing these can reduce the efficacy of the acids and cause redness.
Understanding these interactions helps you build a safe, effective routine.
Can You Mix Azelaic Acid and Salicylic Acid?
No, mixing azelaic acid and salicylic acid at the same time is not recommended.
Azelaic acid works mainly on the skin’s surface, while salicylic acid penetrates deeper into pores.
Applying both simultaneously can overstimulate your skin, leading to itchiness, redness, sensitivity to sunlight, and discomfort.
If you want to use both, alternate their use. For example, apply azelaic acid in the morning and salicylic acid at night, or use them on separate days.
Remember to always use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher during the day. Both acids can increase sun sensitivity.
Is Azelaic Acid an AHA or BHA?
Surprisingly, azelaic acid is neither an AHA nor a BHA.
It’s classified as a dicarboxylic acid, naturally produced by yeast on your skin and grains like wheat and barley.
Though not an AHA or BHA, azelaic acid still exfoliates dead skin cells and helps clear pores.
Its gentle nature and ability to improve texture and pigmentation make it a unique acid in skincare.
Where Does Azelaic Acid Fit in Your Routine?
If your skin tolerates azelaic acid well, you’ll find it in cleansers, toners, serums, and creams.
Starting with cleansers or exfoliating toners can be easier since they rinse off, lowering irritation risk.
Follow azelaic acid products with a serum containing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture.
Many prefer using azelaic acid at night, but it can be used in the morning if followed by sunscreen.
Avoid applying azelaic acid on wet skin, especially if using higher concentrations, to prevent irritation.
Can You Apply Azelaic Acid on Wet Skin?
Generally, no. Applying azelaic acid on damp skin can increase irritation.
This is because many azelaic acid products have prescription-strength concentrations.
Applying them on wet skin amplifies absorption, which may overwhelm your skin.
Instead, use azelaic acid on dry skin after cleansing and toning.
Tips for Using Azelaic Acid and BHA Safely Together
Space out applications: Wait 30 minutes between applying each acid to allow pH levels to stabilize.
Alternate days: Use azelaic acid and BHA on different days to avoid over-exfoliation.
Use sunscreen: Both acids increase sun sensitivity. Daily SPF 30+ is a must.
Hydrate well: Follow with moisturizers or hydrating serums to maintain skin barrier health.
Patch test: Always test new products on a small skin area before full-face use.
Final Thoughts
Azelaic acid and BHA are both effective, but combining them needs care.
They can’t be mixed directly, but by alternating application times or days, you can enjoy their full benefits without irritation.
Remember, the key is listening to your skin and adjusting as needed.
If you have questions or want personalized advice, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist.
For more skincare tips and updates, follow us on Instagram and chat with our experts!
