Can I mix AHAs with Azelaic Acid?
I wouldn’t be surprised if you don’t know exactly what azelaic acid is and what it does for your skin. The beauty industry is full of powerful, effective ingredients, so the idea of adding something else shouldn’t cause too much concern. After all, azelaic acid is a well-kept secret among skincare enthusiasts, which is why it’s usually only found in professional treatments or niche skincare brands.
If you’re wondering what the benefits of azelaic acid are, you can read our dedicated blog post about it and its effects on your skin. Today’s post, however, is about taking a closer look at whether or not you can mix AHAs with azelaic acid.
Can I take azelaic acid with AHAs?
Yes, you can, as it’s known to work well in combination with other skin ingredients, including stronger ones like popular AHAs like glycolic acid and lactic acid. Don’t let the name fool you, it’s not as hard as you think.
In fact, azelaic acid is safe and effective for nearly all skin types, including those prone to rosacea. Due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, azelaic acid is also very effective for treating acne-prone skin without stripping the skin of sebum, which often leads to excessive sebum production, which in turn causes persistent breakouts and a never-ending acne cycle.
However, using azelaic acid as a single ingredient is not considered the best way to treat acne and must be combined with other moisturizing and nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to counteract the drying effects commonly associated with azelaic acid.
What shouldn’t AHAs be mixed with?
To avoid unnecessary skin irritation, do not mix AHAs with the following skincare ingredients: BHAs, salicylic acid, etc. This is because applying any one acid to the skin can be too harsh. BHAs such as salicylic acid are oil-soluble and can penetrate deeper into the skin than AHAs such as glycolic acid.
AHAs work on the outer surface of the skin to dissolve accumulated dead skin cells, debris, bacteria, and other impurities. Still, there’s nothing wrong with using these ingredients in your daily routine. Simply switch up the ingredients at different stages of your skincare routine.
Retinol: Retinol has been shown to speed up the renewal cycle of skin cells, which can often make the skin feel dry and irritated. To prevent your skin from becoming more flaky, it’s best to use glycolic acid in the morning and an AHA-rich product like retinol in the evening.
Vitamin C: Since vitamin C has an exfoliating effect on the skin, combining it with products rich in alpha hydroxy acids and containing vitamin C can lead to excessive peeling and irritation.
If you want to learn more about what not to mix with AHAs, you can read a blog post that explains in more detail how to easily and effectively use these ingredients in your daily skincare routine.
Can I mix niacinamide with azelaic acid?
Absolutely! Azelaic acid and niacinamide are known to work well together. The moisturizing properties of niacinamide ensure that facial moisture is absorbed into the skin and remains there. You’ll also notice that niacinamide ensures that pores are refined and the protective skin barrier is strengthened and continues to function properly.
For best results, it’s best to use azelaic acid-rich product first and then follow up with a niacinamide-rich serum to reduce the risk of dryness and irritation caused by azelaic acid. Can I use Azelaic Acid with Glycolic Acid? Yes, you can
use Azelaic Acid and Glycolic Acid together. Many people find the combination of the two to be a great alternative to extremely powerful skin-active retinoids.
The combination of Azelaic Acid and Glycolic Acid can provide you with the same skin benefits as Retinoids, but in a gentler way. Using Azelaic Acid and Glycolic Acid together will make your skin younger, smoother, plumper,
more revitalized feeling and improve your overall skin appearance. If you want to learn more about combining these powerful ingredients, read the blog post Can Azelaic Acid and Glycolic Acid be used together?
Where is Azelaic Acid Commonly Used?
Azelaic Acid is commonly found in a variety of skincare products. The basic rule of skincare is to use products in the order of thinnest to thickest application. Products containing Azelaic Acid are typically serums and moisturizers that should be applied to the skin later in your daily skincare routine.
For best results, it is best to use Azelaic Acid after cleansers and exfoliating toners to remove all bacteria, residue, and dirt. This way, you will find that any formula you apply afterwards will be absorbed quickly and penetrate into the lower layers of the skin. Can Azelaic Acid be used daily? Even if you have a sensitive skin type and are prone to certain conditions like rosacea, you can use Azelaic Acid twice daily. Unlike some other acids, building skin tolerance is easily achieved and does not take too much time. Don’t take too long.
You can also choose how many days per week you can apply the acid to your skin.
Does Azelaic Acid Cause Rash? Yes, Azelaic Acid can cause acne because skin cells are rapidly turning over and the skin is cleansed.
Often confused with acne, decongestion is a clear sign that the skin is being thoroughly cleansed by pushing sebum, excess sebum, and dirt from the pores to the surface. Continue using your products and you will find that after 4 weeks, your skin will be clear and have a healthy glow.
