{"id":3085,"date":"2026-09-19T01:11:07","date_gmt":"2026-09-18T17:11:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/2026\/09\/19\/theres-an-azelaic-acid-shortage-happening-right-now-heres-everything-to-know-about-the-buzzy-ingredient\/"},"modified":"2026-09-19T01:11:07","modified_gmt":"2026-09-18T17:11:07","slug":"theres-an-azelaic-acid-shortage-happening-right-now-heres-everything-to-know-about-the-buzzy-ingredient","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/2026\/09\/19\/theres-an-azelaic-acid-shortage-happening-right-now-heres-everything-to-know-about-the-buzzy-ingredient\/","title":{"rendered":"There\u2019s an Azelaic Acid Shortage Happening Right Now\u2014Here\u2019s Everything to Know About the Buzzy Ingredient"},"content":{"rendered":"

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If you\u2019ve struggled with inflamed, red or blemish-prone skin, you\u2019re probably familiar with the Big Three: salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and glycolic acid. But there\u2019s another one having a major moment right now: azelaic acid. <\/p>\n

The ingredient is popping up everywhere, from TikTok to your derm\u2019s office\u2014though, as New York dermatologist Dr. Kiran Mian notes, experts have been using it in practice for decades. The renewed demand has even led to a shortage of Finacea, the prescription-strength version of azelaic acid: Dr. Mian says suppliers are reporting that it\u2019s backordered, leading to delays for patients waiting on it. (Not to worry: the over-the-counter versions remain easy to find.)<\/p>\n

So what\u2019s the hype about\u2014and is it warranted? Ahead, everything to know about the ingredient dermatologists have quietly loved for decades as the rest of the internet is only now catching on.`<\/p>\n

What is azelaic acid?<\/h2>\n

Azelaic acid occurs naturally in barley, rye and wheat, and it belongs to the carboxylic acid family. New Orleans dermatologist Mary Lupo, MD calls azelaic acid \u201ca Swiss Army knife\u201d when it comes to skin care. \u201cI wish more people knew about azelaic acid,\u201d adds Rochester, MI dermatologist Mariana Atanasovski, MD. \u201cIt can help with acne and clogged pores, redness and inflammation, hyperpigmentation, melasma and overall uneven skin tone and texture.\u201d<\/p>\n

It\u2019s also FDA-approved for rosacea and acne, though dermatologists have used it off-label for decades on melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, too. Despite treating so much, it\u2019s not typically used alone: \u201cIt\u2019s a relatively gentle ingredient that’s often used as part of a broader regimen rather than a standalone solution,” says Washington, D.C. dermatologist Nina Hartman, MD.<\/p>\n

Does azelaic acid help fight acne?<\/h2>\n

In one word: yes. Azelaic acid is an effective treatment for acne due to its antimicrobial properties. Boston dermatologist Dennis A. Porto, MD, says it treats the hyperpigmentation that follows acne, too. Shenandoah, TX dermatologist Lana Hawayek, MD, recommends it for darker skin types dealing with blemishes and scarring.<\/p>\n

Columbus, GA dermatologist Tanda Lane, MD, says it also \u201cdecreases abnormal follicular keratinization so it helps with comedones much like tretinoin does, but without the peeling.\u201d As Laguna Hills, CA dermatologist Jennifer Channual, MD, puts it, \u201cazelaic acid is great for patients who have sensitive skin and have a hard time tolerating topical retinoids or other strong topicals.\u201d<\/p>\n

Does azelaic acid lighten\u00a0hyperpigmentation?<\/h2>\n

Azelaic acid \u201cinhibits tyrosinase, so it\u2019s helpful for pigmentary concerns without the irritation hydroquinone can cause,\u201d explains Dr. Lane. New York dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, says it can help even out skin tone and lighten melasma\u2014a benefit Miami Beach, FL dermatologist Melissa Lazarus, MD, has seen too. Dr. Mian agrees, using it frequently for both melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) left behind by acne.<\/p>\n

Does azelaic acid reduce redness?<\/h2>\n

Azelaic acid is effective at treating rosacea and reducing skin redness, says Wilmington, NC dermatologist Kendall Egan, MD. Miami Beach, FL dermatologist Melissa Lazarus, MD, has found it especially useful \u201cin patients with rosacea that will not tolerate some of the other bleaching agents.\u201d Dr. Mian points to another benefit for these patients: it \u201ccan help to decrease the reactivity of sensitive skin,\u201d making it a fit for anyone whose skin flushes or reacts easily\u2014not just those with the condition.`<\/p>\n

Azelaic acid vs. retinol<\/h2>\n

\u201cAzelaic acid and retinol are very different in their mechanism of action and thus their roles\u2014they\u2019re often paired rather than compared,\u201d says Dr. Hartman. Retinol increases cell turnover and stimulates collagen production, making it the better choice for fine lines, texture and long-term anti-aging. <\/p>\n

Azelaic acid, meanwhile, is more of a multitasker, with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that normalize keratinization and reduce pore-clogging.<\/p>\n

The biggest misconception about azelaic acid<\/h2>\n

Not every dermatologist is convinced, though. Take Algonquin, IL dermatologist Vic Khanna, MD, who calls the ingredient weak. <\/p>\n

Dr. Hartman hears this a lot, too: the idea that azelaic acid is too gentle to actually work. \u201cIt\u2019s true that azelaic acid is a gentler active, but there\u2019s strong evidence supporting its efficacy for rosacea, acne and pigmentation,\u201d Dr. Hartman says\u2014though she notes it\u2019s often used alongside other products for the best effect.<\/p>\n

The flip side of that misconception is just as common: Because the ingredient has \u201cacid\u201d in its name, people assume it must be harsh. \u201cIn reality, it\u2019s one of the best-tolerated actives we have, including for sensitive and reactive skin types,\u201d says Dr. Hartman.<\/p>\n

Can you use azelaic acid every day?<\/h2>\n

Azelaic acid is known to be easier than most acids to tolerate, so it can be used daily. As with any active ingredient, daily SPF is essential to protect skin and support results.<\/p>\n

The secret sauce to seeing results: consistency. \u201cIf patients follow the recommended regimen of using [azelaic acid] twice daily, along with a moisturizer and a sunblock, it is extremely effective,\u201d says Harrison, NY dermatologist Jennifer Silverman Kitchin, MD.<\/p>\n

Patience matters, too: Dr. Mian tells patients it typically takes at least four weeks to see visible changes, including \u201cimproved clarity of your skin, less redness and more even tone.\u201d<\/p>\n

Can you use azelaic acid while pregnant?<\/h2>\n

Both Dr. Mian and Dr. Channual say azelaic acid is their \u201cgo-to for pregnant or breastfeeding patients.\u201d Dr. Lazarus adds: \u201cI use it often in acne patients and melasma patients that are pregnant, as it is Category B and safe during pregnancy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Some doctors reach for azelaic acid specifically because their patient is pregnant, since other, stronger options\u2014like retinoids\u2014usually aren\u2019t an option during pregnancy. \u201cI recommend it mostly in the setting of pregnancy, since we know azelaic acid is quite safe in that setting, but it is not as potent as other options such as retinoids,\u201d says Orange County, CA dermatologist Daniel Chang, MD.`<\/p>\n

What percentage of azelaic acid should you use?<\/h2>\n

Azelaic acid comes in a range of strengths, and the right one depends on how your skin handles it. Over-the-counter formulas are typically 10 percent\u2014the concentration found in most drugstore, Ulta and Sephora buys\u2014and, per Dr. Mian, still \u201cvery effective\u201d for most people.<\/p>\n

Prescription options go higher: Finacea Gel is 15 percent (also available as a foam\u2014Dr. Lupo\u2019s favorite), while Skinoren Cream goes up to 20 percent. \u201c15 to 20 percent azelaic acid will give you the most robust results,\u201d Dr. Mian says, though the tradeoff is tolerability. Higher concentrations are more likely to sting, so Dr. Milan recommends easing in, starting every other day at a higher strength, or sticking with the 10 percent OTC version before working up to daily use.<\/p>\n

Dr. Hartman breaks down who each strength suits best: prescription azelaic acid is what she prefers for patients dealing with rosacea and acne, while OTC formulas\u2014typically 10 percent or under, often in serum form\u2014are a good fit for those chasing azelaic acid’s brightening and calming benefits, or for patients with reactive skin who are working their way up to a prescription strength.<\/p>\n

For anyone chasing faster results, Beverly Hills, CA dermatologist Natanel Jourabchi, MD, is more direct: \u201cIf you’re serious about results, I’d skip the lower strength OTC versions and ask your dermatologist about prescription-strength 15 percent azelaic acid.\u201d<\/p>\n

What to pair with azelaic acid\u2014and what to avoid<\/h2>\n

Niacinamide \u201cworks very synergistically with azelaic acid,\u201d says Dr. Mian\u2014it helps with redness and decreases oil production, a combination Vienna, VA dermatologist Brenda Dintiman, MD especially likes \u201cfor acne with pigment that develops after the skin is inflamed.\u201d Dr. Hartman suggests pairing with vitamin C for brightening and hyaluronic acid for hydration (\u201csunscreen, of course, is non-negotiable,\u201d she adds), while retinol is another strong partner\u2014some compounding pharmacies even combine tretinoin and azelaic acid into a single formula.<\/p>\n

What experts don\u2019t recommend: combining azelaic acid with high percentages of exfoliating acids\u2014salicylic, mandelic or glycolic\u2014as layering multiple acids can be irritating. Should you want to keep them in your routine, Dr. Mian’s advice is to alternate them\u2014one in the morning, the other at night.<\/p>\n

The Best Azelaic Acid Products to Shop in 2026<\/h2>\n

While prescription products such as Finacea Gel and Skinoren Cream are available from your dermatologist, over-the-counter products (commonly concentrations of 10 percent) can be found everywhere from Ulta to Sephora.<\/p>\n

Still waiting on a prescription, or prefer a gentler starting point? The OTC picks below are a great place to start.<\/p>\n

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1<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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Washington, D.C. dermatologist Sarika Snell, MD, says she recommends this formula to patients \u201call the time.\u201d What makes it so popular? Its ability to tackle multiple skin concerns (blemishes, redness, uneven tone and more) in one step and for under $13. <\/p>\n

Dr. Atanasovski is also a fan; Fort Lauderdale, FL dermatologist Matthew Elias, MD, agrees, calling it \u201cthe best and most cost-effective OTC azelaic acid.\u201d<\/p>\n

BUY ON AMAZON – $12<\/p>\n

BUY ON ULTA – $12<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"The<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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2<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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Also spiked with salicylic acid, this blemish-busting formula is beloved among users for being \u201cgentle yet effective\u201d at fading dark spots and quieting redness. Dr. Lane says her patients like this particular formula, calling it \u201cmore cosmetically elegant and less \u2018grainy\u2019\u201d than other options. <\/p>\n

BUY ON DERMSTORE – $42<\/p>\n

BUY ON SEPHORA – $42<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"Paula\u2019s<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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3<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dr. Mian is the the brand\u2019s director of clinical innovation, so it\u2019s no surprise this soothing serum from Alix Earle\u2019s skin-care line is her personal favorite\u2014but she says the impressive clinical trials back it up as one of the best options in the OTC space. Launches September 22.`<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"reale<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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4<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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What do you get when you combine peptides, azelaic acid, centella asiatica and mountain ghostberry? One silky, gentle serum that bolsters your skin barrier and gently fades the look of spots and lines.<\/p>\n

BUY ON ALPYN – $58 <\/p>\n

BUY ON SEPHORA – $58<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"alpyn<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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5<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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This sinks-right-in serum pairs 10 percent azelaic acid with three types of hyaluronic acid for one job only: quieting redness and irritation. Dr. Dintiman is a fan, calling it \u201ceffective but less drying\u201d than other OTC options.<\/p>\n

BUY ON ULTA – $22 <\/p>\n

BUY ON AMAZON – $24<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"anua<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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6<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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As its name suggests, this nighttime treatment does it all: azelaic acid targets blemishes, while powerhouse ingredients like peptides, hyaluronic acid, resveratrol, caffeine and bakuchiol work overtime to visibly transform skin.<\/p>\n

BUY NOW – $155<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"Barefaced<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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7<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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The ultimate morning pick-me-up, this multitasking serum is packed with vitamin C, niacinamide, azelaic acid and hyaluronic acid to usher in brighter, smoother, younger-looking skin.<\/p>\n

BUY ON SEPHORA – $85<\/p>\n

BUY ON YSE BEAUTY – $85<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"YSE<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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8<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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Designed for persistently red skin, this dual-chamber serum pairs instant relief with long-term results: a green color corrector neutralizes redness on contact, while a treatment serum\u2014powered by azelaic acid and peptides\u2014works beneath the surface to calm.<\/p>\n

BUY ON INNBEAUTY – $56<\/p>\n

BUY AT SEPHORA – $56<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"iNNBEAUTY<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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9<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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This high-potency azelaic acid serum balances oil, brightens tone and hydrates thanks to blend of ingredients including niacinamide, vitamin C and coffee seed extract. Reviewers call the results \u201cjaw-dropping,\u201d with some noting their skin was \u201cabsolutely transformed\u201d in just five days.<\/p>\n

BUY ON NATURIUM – $20<\/p>\n

BUY ON ULTA – $20<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"Naturium<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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10<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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A gentle blend of 10 percent azelaic acid, salicylic acid and glycerin works to fade the look of dark spots and smooth rough texture in one easy, accessible step.<\/p>\n

BUY ON BUBBLE – $17<\/p>\n

BUY ON ULTA – $17<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"bubble<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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11<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dull texture and hyperpigmentation begone! Azelaic acid pairs up with tranexamic, glycolic and lactic acids to brighten skin and smooth stubborn texture in this derm-developed serum.<\/p>\n

BUY ON LION POSE – $79<\/p>\n

BUY ON SEPHORA – $79<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"\"<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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12<\/span> \/ 12<\/span><\/p>\n

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Fancy yourself a peel instead of a serum? This swipe-on formula treats acne with glycolic and salicylic acid while keeping things calm with azelaic acid and zinc.<\/p>\n

BUY ON ULTA – $34 <\/p>\n

BUY ON PERSONAL DAY – $34 <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\"personal<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

If you\u2019ve struggled with inflamed, red or blemish-prone […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3086,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[55],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3085"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3085"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3085\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3086"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3085"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3085"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3085"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}