If you spend any amount of time in the skincare corners of TikTok or Reddit, chances are you’ve come across azelaic acid—a multitasking active that’s technically a dicarboxylic acid rather than the familiar AHA or BHA. With its ability to tackle everything from breakouts and redness to discoloration, it’s easy to see why so many brands have been launching azelaic acid products lately. Many think of it as the unsung hero of exfoliants.
According to board-certified dermatologist Michele Green, MD, azelaic acid is approved for acne, rosacea, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, thanks to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-melanogenic properties. It can help calm redness, clear breakouts, and fade discoloration without requiring a separate product for every concern.
Vogue’s Favorite Azelaic Acid Products
Not to mention, it also has a relatively gentle profile, making it a good option for people who want to address congestion and uneven tone without some of the irritation associated with stronger acne treatments. Esthetician Elizabeth Grace Hand adds, “It gives the skin such a great, even glow. It’s one of those ingredients that works for a really wide range of skin types, including tricky sensitive skin, which is probably why we’re seeing it everywhere right now.”
And back to Dr. Henry’s point, azelaic acid is a particularly appealing option for those with melanin-rich skin looking to treat hyperpigmentation. While some ingredients used to target discoloration can be irritating, azelaic acid is generally well tolerated. “It is gentle, and with repeated use, it can help to gradually even tone,” adds board-certified dermatologist Evan Rieder.
Ahead, our favorite azelaic acid products for every skin type and concern, plus expert tips on how to incorporate them into your routine.
