Azelaic acid and retinol are two skincare ingredients that have unique and impressive effects. No doubt you already know about the benefits of retinol and how it improves the overall look and feel of your complexion while aiding in skin clarity. Retinol is known as one of the most powerful skin ingredients out there, and it has a range of skin benefits, from reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to fighting blemishes and breakouts. Azelaic acid, on the other hand, has similar benefits but is gentler and can be used on sensitive and rosacea-prone skin.
With both of these powerful ingredients delivering such impressive, eye-catching results, it’s no wonder this question has been making the rounds in today’s blog post. So, let’s dive in to learn more about whether you can mix retinol and azelaic acid together. However, before we get started, let’s take a quick look at azelaic acid and retinol and how they benefit the skin.
What are the benefits of azelaic acid?
Azelaic acid can reduce skin inflammation and calm acne breakouts on the surface of the skin.
Azelaic acid has antimicrobial properties that help remove dirt, bacteria, debris, and sebum buildup from the pores.
Azelaic acid is known for its ability to improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, sun damage, and acne scars.
Azelaic acid gently exfoliates and removes dead skin cells from the skin, resulting in a smoother, more even texture and surface on the face.
Azelaic acid does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to UV radiation.
If you want to learn more about azelaic acid, you can read our dedicated blog post on Azelaic Acid on The Beauty Insiders.
What are the benefits of retinol?
Retinol is effective in fighting breakouts, spots, and acne.
Retinol works on the lower layers of the skin to help boost collagen and elastin production.
Retinol speeds up skin cell turnover and ensures that signs of hyperpigmentation and dark spots are significantly reduced.
Retinol improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and replenishes lost elasticity.
If you want to learn more about what retinol can do for your skin, be sure to read the blog post “What are the benefits of retinol for skin care?”
Can retinol be used with azelaic acid?
Yes, you can, but be careful if you have sensitive skin as too much exfoliation can be taxing on the skin. If your skin is oily and prone to blemishes, the combination of retinol and azelaic acid can be an effective combination. Azelaic acid helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots, especially scars caused by acne flare-ups. You’ll also notice that your skin feels clean as the retinol penetrates deep into the skin and clears out excess sebum, dirt, and bacteria from the pores.
Because each ingredient works both individually and as a team, you’ll notice an improvement in the overall appearance of your complexion. Signs of pigmentation are reduced and acne is treated.
An important thing to remember when combining these powerful ingredients is to apply SPF 30 or higher daily to protect your skin from free radical damage, such as pollution and harmful sun damage.
Which came first, azelaic acid or retinol?
This largely depends on the type of product the ingredients are formulated into. In previous blog posts, I’ve explained that the cardinal rule of skincare is to apply products in order of thinnest to thickest consistency. Azelaic acid is commonly found in products like exfoliating toners, serums, or face washes, all of which are used at different stages of your skincare routine. When it comes to retinol, this powerhouse is found in products like serums, face oils, and moisturizers, all of which are used later in your skincare routine.
If you’re still a little confused, an easy way to remember the order of application is to only use retinol at night. So it’s easier to remember if you apply it to clean skin before bed. You’ll also find that azelaic acid is an effective exfoliant for the skin, meaning it removes accumulated dead skin cells and debris, revealing fresh, more absorbent skin underneath, so any products you apply afterwards are quickly absorbed by the underlying layers of the skin.
Can Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid, and Retinol be used together?
Yes, you can, but not at the same time, as this can be too much for the skin. Niacinamide and retinol can easily be used together, as the hydrating properties of niacinamide can counteract the drying effects of retinol, keeping your complexion plump, hydrated, and comfortable.
To use all three ingredients together, you’ll need to alternate between azelaic acid and retinol with niacinamide. The most effective way to do this is to use an exfoliating toner with azelaic acid in the morning after cleansing. You can then apply retinol and niacinamide in the evening to ensure that enough time has passed and your skin’s pH has rebalanced from the morning onwards.
Is Azelaic Acid Better Than Retinol?
Both azelaic acid and retinol offer similar skin benefits, but both have their own unique beneficial properties. As a result, many people use both of these powerful ingredients together in their daily routine to reap the benefits in the quickest and easiest way possible. If your skin can tolerate it, use both ingredients together, and of course don’t forget to apply a daily SPF to protect against UV rays.
That’s it. Hopefully, I’ve answered most of your questions about mixing azelaic acid and retinol. If you have any additional queries, though, visit us on Instagram.
