How long does azelaic acid last?
Azelaic acid, we’ve already discussed this unsung hero here on Beauty Insiders. It’s undeniably a favorite among skin experts and dermatologists. You’ll also notice that their popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, with many serums containing this powerful ingredient already incorporated into our daily skincare routines.
This acid is a natural compound found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley. It’s often used in products that help treat acne and rosacea. This is unusual because most anti-acne ingredients are too harsh for people with rosacea and other similar skin conditions. This is just one example of how this unique ingredient can repair, soothe, and restore your complexion without side effects. If you’d like to learn more about this ingenious ingredient and its effects on your skin, read our dedicated blog post.
Now let’s get straight to the point about how long azelaic acid lasts.
Can azelaic acid last long term?
How long you can use azelaic acid depends largely on the product formula you use. That’s because it’s important to understand how product diversity affects how much you can apply to your skin.
When it comes to the science behind azelaic acid, you’ll often find that most of the research has been conducted using prescription formulas. These products usually contain 15-20% azelaic acid, making them very effective and requiring you to use them as directed by your doctor or dermatologist.
As for over-the-counter products, the levels are much lower and can be used effectively in conjunction with other active ingredients you use on a daily basis. You can usually use these products twice a day or for as long as needed. Still, it’s important to consult your doctor, especially if you’re new to azelaic acid, to make sure this acid is right for you and your skin.
When should I stop using azelaic acid?
After consulting your doctor and performing a 24-hour patch test, you can be confident that azelaic acid will not cause skin irritation. However, there are some signs that azelaic acid is not right for you, such as:
Severe itching or stinging
Severe redness
Dryness
Peeling skin
Changes in skin color
Burn or warmth in the skin
Stinging
Difficulty breathing
These symptoms are signs of an allergic reaction and can cause permanent skin damage if you don’t act quickly. If you find yourself experiencing any of the side effects I’ve mentioned, rinse the product off your skin with cool water immediately. Avoid using other strong or irritating ingredients on your skin. Instead, apply a generous amount of hyaluronic acid to your skin to lock in moisture and improve hydration.
If you find yourself experiencing more severe side effects, it’s best to contact your doctor immediately and stop using products rich in azelaic acid until you can speak to a professional.
Is Azelaic Acid Harmful to the Skin?
Yes, it can, but only if you suffer from the allergic reaction I mentioned earlier. Azelaic acid won’t necessarily cause skin damage when used properly. However, you’ll find that when using AHAs in your morning skincare routine, it’s essential to wear a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher every day to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays.
Because azelaic acid exfoliates the skin, you’ll notice that it removes the top layer of dead skin cells and reveals fresh cells underneath. These new skin cells are very sensitive to UV rays. To avoid deeper damage, you’ll need to wear sunscreen to protect the new cells and keep your skin barrier strong and fully functional.
How Long Do Azelaic Acid’s Clearing Effects Last?
You’ll find that the clearing effects on your skin wear off after a month. However, for many people, the skin continues to show signs of clearing for up to 8 weeks. A lot depends on the condition of your skin when you first apply topical azelaic acid and the amount of acid in the formula. If you find that you are still not clearing after 8 weeks, you should consult a dermatologist or trained professional to find a better product or alternative.
If you are wondering what exactly is clearing, this term describes the appearance of your skin after adding a high-performance exfoliant to your skincare routine. Exfoliation goes deep into the pores to help remove excess sebum, bacteria, dirt and other deposits. This “oil” then makes its way to the surface of the skin, often causing breakouts such as blackheads and acne to appear on the surface of the skin. The trick is to continue your daily activities as usual, as this will speed up the clearing process and make the skin look brighter, smoother and healthier immediately.
Can I use azelaic acid for many years?
Evidence shows that it is completely safe to use azelaic acid in your daily life for many years. However, I would like to remind you that our skin changes over time. As we age, the skin often becomes drier, and hormonal changes can also affect the overall health and appearance of the complexion.
Many people like to use skincare products and often mix different ingredients and formulas together. This is what I personally recommend because it allows your skin to get the best results and reap the benefits of powerful active ingredients. Just make sure to follow the instructions and properly incorporate the new ingredient into your daily routine.
Here is more information on how long azelaic acid can be used. If you still have any questions, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more information.
