The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% treatment in squeezable tube
Strong choice for Acne
What Makes This Different

Most OTC azelaic acid products are formulated as simple creams or gels. This suspension format uses a silicone-rich base with dimethyl isosorbide as a penetration enhancer — addressing azelaic acid's notorious poor skin penetration at cosmetic concentrations. The matte finish doubles as a primer for oily skin types, and at $12.20, it costs a fraction of prescription azelaic acid (Finacea, Azelex) which run $150+ even with insurance.

The Ordinary

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% Review

Multi-Tasking Skin Clarifier
treatment cream clinical Paraben Free Cruelty Free Vegan

One of the most versatile and underrated actives in skincare — effective for acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation simultaneously — delivered at the highest OTC concentration with a penetration enhancer for under $13. The silicone suspension texture is polarizing, and pilling is a real issue, but for those who can work with the formula, this is prescription-grade efficacy at drugstore pricing.

$12.20
30 mL / 1 fl oz · other sizes available
4.2 ★★★★★
25,000 reviews
Made in Canada Launched 2017 All-year use PAO: 12 months
Buy at Amazon ♥
Run it through our tools Clashes with my routine? Pregnancy-safe? Find a cheaper dupe Patch-test it first
Verdicts

How well it fits each concern

Verdict by concern tap a concern for the case

Strong choicefor AcneAzelaic Acid is an approved or monograph active for acne; this cream carries it at 10%.Moderate evidenceStandard tolerability95% report improvement · n = 58

The case for it

  1. Azelaic Acid is a first-line active — approved, monograph-listed or named in current guidelines — for this concern.
  2. It is present at an effective concentration, declared or high in the ingredient list.
  3. The formula carries no trigger this concern is sensitive to, with the cautions noted.

Cautions: fungal-acne triggers.

Same rule for everyone. “Strong choice” is the verdict on 1,459 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule R2 decided 892 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.

Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →

Show the work
Rule
R2 — A regulator- or guideline-recognised first-line active, declared at an effective strength, in a form the claim supports. · the full register
Carrying active
Azelaic Acid
Standing
first line — a regulator recognises it for this use; trials support it · per AZELEX® (azelaic acid cream) 20% (US Food and Drug Administration prescribing information, via DailyMed (National Library of Medicine)), opened July 27, 2026
Form
adequate (declared 10%) — studied range 10%, from the OTC monograph or label; needs leave-on contact; judge it after ~12 weeks
Tolerability
standard — fungal triggers
Row checked
against its sources on July 27, 2026 (evidence table ev-2026.09-r228)

The studies behind the evidence row

All acne products →
Good choicefor RosaceaAzelaic Acid is an approved or monograph active for rosacea, but this cream carries it at 10% — below the 15% the evidence and approvals rest on.Strong evidenceGentle95% report improvement · n = 57

The case for it

  1. Azelaic Acid is a first-line active — approved, monograph-listed or named in current guidelines — for this concern.
  2. It is present below the studied range.
  3. The formula carries none of the triggers this concern is sensitive to.

What would change this: A concentration inside the studied range would raise this a step.

Same rule for everyone. “Good choice” is the verdict on 9,564 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule R4 decided 84 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.

Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →

Show the work
Rule
R4 — Right molecule, weak dose: still a reasonable choice, not the strong one. · the full register
Carrying active
Azelaic Acid
Standing
first line — a regulator recognises it for this use; trials support it · per FINACEA® (azelaic acid) Gel, 15% (US Food and Drug Administration prescribing information, via DailyMed (National Library of Medicine)), opened July 27, 2026
Form
sub threshold (declared 10%) — studied range 15%, from the row's cited source; needs leave-on contact; judge it after ~12 weeks
Tolerability
gentle
Row checked
against its sources on July 27, 2026 (evidence table ev-2026.09-r228)

The studies behind the evidence row

All rosacea products →
Good choicefor HyperpigmentationAzelaic Acid is a first-line active in current guidelines for hyperpigmentation; this cream carries it at 10%.Moderate evidenceGentle250 reviews collected

The case for it

  1. Azelaic Acid has trial-supported standing for this concern.
  2. It is present at an effective concentration, declared or high in the ingredient list.
  3. The formula carries none of the triggers this concern is sensitive to.

Same rule for everyone. “Good choice” is the verdict on 9,564 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule R5 decided 9,072 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.

Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →

Show the work
Rule
R5 — Trial-supported or guideline-supported active, adequately or plausibly dosed. · the full register
Carrying active
Azelaic Acid
Standing
supported — a current guideline names it; trials support it · per Treatment recommendations for acne-associated hyperpigmentation: Results of the Delphi consensus process and a literature review (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 2023;89(2):316-323 (PMID 36924935)), opened July 27, 2026
Form
adequate (declared 10%) — studied range 10%, from the OTC monograph or label; needs leave-on contact; judge it after ~12 weeks
Tolerability
gentle
Row checked
against its sources on July 27, 2026 (evidence table ev-2026.09-r228)

The studies behind the evidence row

All hyperpigmentation products →
Promisingfor Dark SpotsAzelaic Acid has trial-level evidence for dark spots but no guideline or regulatory standing yet — promising, short of a recommendation; the other actives here are not yet assessed for it.Moderate evidenceGentle250 reviews collected

The case for it

  1. Azelaic Acid has trial-level evidence for this concern but no guideline or regulatory standing yet.
  2. It is present at an effective concentration, declared or high in the ingredient list.
  3. The formula carries none of the triggers this concern is sensitive to.

What would change this: Guideline or regulatory standing for the active on this concern would move this from a promising bet to a recommendation.

Same rule for everyone. “Promising” is the verdict on 7,858 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule R9p decided 7,858 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.

Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →

Show the work
Rule
R9p — 0.5.0: 'Unproven' beside three filled dots read as one question answered twice with opposite words (7,018 rows). The chip measures standing, the dots measure trial volume; where the row carries at least one RCT or a tier-2 source (moderate dots) and the active is present at a working level, the honest word is Promising. Unproven is reserved for plausible-standing rows with limited or weak evidence, or an under-dosed form. Same rank as Unproven — a bet either way; the dots order them. · the full register
Carrying active
Azelaic Acid
Standing
plausible — trials support it
Form
adequate (declared 10%) — studied range 10%, from the OTC monograph or label; needs leave-on contact; judge it after ~12 weeks
Tolerability
gentle
Row checked
against its sources on July 17, 2026 (evidence table ev-2026.09-r228)

The studies behind the evidence row

All dark spots products →

Also listed for Dullness, Rough Texture, Blackheads and Excess Oiliness — the actives here (Dimethicone, Azelaic Acid, dimethyl isosorbide, Vitamin E) are in our research queue for those concerns; there is no verdict until their evidence rows are written. That is a gap in our table, not a mark against the product.

A verdict is DermApproved’s assessment of how well a product’s ingredients fit a concern — never a claim about what the product treats. Evidence dots and collected reviews sit beside it and are never blended in. Rules 0.5.1 · evidence table ev-2026.09-r228 · how we decide

Assessment

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Multi-pathway active that simultaneously treats acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation
  • ✓ FDA Pregnancy Category B — one of the safest effective acne treatments during pregnancy
  • ✓ Dimethyl isosorbide penetration enhancer addresses azelaic acid's poor OTC absorption
  • ✓ Matte, primer-like finish is a bonus feature for oily skin types
  • ✓ 25,000+ user reviews with consistently positive feedback on acne scar fading
  • ✓ Costs $12.20 versus $150+ for prescription azelaic acid products
  • ✓ Vitamin E provides complementary antioxidant support
  • ✓ No fragrance, no alcohol, no parabens in the formula

Cons

  • ✗ Thick, waxy suspension texture is heavy and divisive among users
  • ✗ Significant pilling when layered with other skincare products or makeup
  • ✗ Slightly gritty feel from undissolved azelaic acid particles during application
  • ✗ Can leave a noticeable white cast, especially on deeper skin tones
  • ✗ Contains silicones and polysorbates — not suitable for fungal acne
  • ✗ Initial stinging or burning sensation during the first week of use
Review

Full Review

There's a reason dermatologists reach for azelaic acid across conditions that would normally require entirely different treatment approaches. Acne? Azelaic acid kills C. acnes bacteria and normalizes the follicular keratinization that traps sebum. Rosacea? It's anti-inflammatory, reducing the erythema and papules that make rosacea miserable. Hyperpigmentation? It inhibits tyrosinase, fading dark spots without the bleaching risks of hydroquinone. It's the Swiss Army knife of topical dermatology, and The Ordinary sells the maximum OTC version for twelve dollars.

The formulation here is a suspension — meaning the azelaic acid particles are not fully dissolved in the vehicle, creating a slightly gritty texture that polarizes users from the first application. If you've ever used a silicone-based primer, the base will feel familiar: smooth, waxy, and surprisingly matte once dry. That matte finish is deliberate. The three silicones in the formula — dimethicone, dimethicone/bis-isobutyl PPG-20 crosspolymer, and polysilicone-11 — create a film that holds the azelaic acid particles against the skin for prolonged contact, maximizing the time the active spends where it can work.

The inclusion of dimethyl isosorbide as a penetration enhancer is a formulation decision that deserves recognition. Azelaic acid's biggest limitation at OTC concentrations is poor skin penetration — it's a relatively large, polar molecule that doesn't easily traverse the stratum corneum's lipid matrix. At prescription strength (15-20%), sheer concentration can compensate. At 10%, you need help getting it where it needs to go. Dimethyl isosorbide provides that assistance, and its presence in this formula is what separates it from simpler azelaic acid creams.

The clinical evidence for azelaic acid is among the strongest in topical dermatology. A 2023 systematic review published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology analyzed 20 rosacea studies and found significant improvement in erythema severity and inflammatory lesion counts versus vehicle at 12 weeks. Sixteen acne studies showed azelaic acid more effective than vehicle. Seven melasma studies demonstrated that 20% azelaic acid outperformed both vehicle and 2% hydroquinone. A 2024 randomized double-blind trial in Dermatology and Therapy confirmed that 15% azelaic acid significantly reduced both post-inflammatory erythema and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation at 8 and 12 weeks while maintaining skin barrier integrity.

At 10%, this product sits below the prescription threshold, and the results will be more gradual than what you'd get from Finacea (15% gel) or Azelex (20% cream). But there's an important context: those prescriptions cost $150+ even with insurance, require a dermatologist visit, and are often subject to prior authorization hassles. This delivers the same active ingredient at a meaningful concentration for under $13, available without a prescription, and with a penetration enhancer to partially compensate for the lower concentration.

The pregnancy safety profile is a significant differentiator. Azelaic acid is FDA Pregnancy Category B — one of the very few effective acne and rosacea treatments that dermatologists can recommend without reservation during pregnancy. Only about 4% of topically applied azelaic acid is systemically absorbed, and it's a naturally occurring acid already present in the body. For pregnant individuals dealing with hormonal acne or pregnancy-triggered rosacea, this is one of the few truly safe options with genuine clinical evidence.

The texture complaints are valid. The thick, waxy suspension requires a specific application technique — spread quickly over the target area before the silicone base begins to set. A pea-sized amount for the full face is sufficient. Going heavier leads to pilling, white cast, and the sensation of wearing a plaster mask. The product layers poorly over water-based serums and under water-based moisturizers; it behaves best when applied to relatively clean skin with a lightweight moisturizer on top. For oily skin types, the matte finish is a feature — it functions almost as a primer. For dry skin types, the mattifying effect and silicone base can feel uncomfortably tight.

The initial stinging deserves acknowledgment rather than concern. Transient stinging is the most-reported side effect in azelaic acid clinical trials, and it consistently resolves within the first week of regular use. Start with every other day application, and by day seven to ten, most users can transition to twice daily without discomfort.

For acne, results typically begin at 2-4 weeks, with peak improvement at 12 weeks. For rosacea redness, improvement can be noticeable within the first two weeks. For post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, expect 4-8 weeks for visible fading. The results are cumulative and sustained — azelaic acid doesn't cause the tachyphylaxis (diminishing returns with continued use) that some other actives do.

At $12.20, this product makes one of dermatology's most versatile and well-studied ingredients accessible to anyone who can handle the texture. The pilling issue is real, the white cast is real, and the formula isn't pleasant in the way that a good serum or cream can be. But effectiveness and aesthetics don't always overlap, and for those willing to work with the formula's quirks, this is clinical-grade skin clarifying at a price that makes prescription alternatives feel like highway robbery.

Formula

Key Ingredients

The hero actives that drive this product's performance.

IngredientFunctionEvidence
Azelaic Acid (10%) The primary active, suspended in a silicone-rich base for prolonged skin contact and gradual release. Functions through four distinct mechanisms: antibacterial activity against C. acnes, anti-inflammatory action that reduces rosacea redness, normalization of follicular keratinization to prevent comedones, and tyrosinase inhibition to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. At 10%, it's the highest OTC concentration available without prescription. Regulator-approved for Rosacea · well-established certainty
Dimethyl Isosorbide A penetration enhancer that helps the 10% azelaic acid — which has notoriously poor skin penetration at OTC concentrations — reach deeper into the epidermis where it exerts its anti-inflammatory and depigmenting effects. A critical inclusion that distinguishes this formula from simpler azelaic acid products. Not yet assessed
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Provides antioxidant support that complements azelaic acid's own antioxidant activity, scavenging reactive oxygen species generated by UV exposure and inflammation. Also helps stabilize the lipid components in this suspension formula. Not yet assessed
Dimethicone Forms the silicone base of the suspension, creating the matte, occlusive-lite layer that holds azelaic acid particles against the skin for extended contact time. Also provides a smooth, non-greasy finish and functions as a mild skin protectant that reduces TEWL. Not yet assessed
Full INCI List · pH 4.5

Aqua (Water), Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Dimethicone, Azelaic Acid, Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polysilicone-11, Isohexadecane, Tocopherol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Isoceteth-20, Polysorbate 60, Triethanolamine, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin

Safety & Formulation Facts
✓ Pregnancy Safe ✓ Fragrance Free✓ Alcohol Free✗ Oil Free✗ Silicone Free✓ Paraben Free✓ Sulfate Free✓ Cruelty Free✓ Vegan✗ Fungal Acne Safe
Potential Irritants
Azelaic acid (initial stinging/burning that typically subsides within first week)
Common Allergens
Tocopherol (rare contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals)
Compatibility

Skin Match

Best For
Works For
Not Ideal For
Routine Step

treatment

Time of Day

AM & PM

Layering Tips

Apply a thin, even layer after water-based serums and before moisturizer. The silicone-heavy base can cause pilling if layered over thick products — apply to relatively clean skin for best results. A pea-sized amount is sufficient for the full face.

Results Timeline

Immediate matte finish and skin smoothing. Reduced redness and inflammation within 1-2 weeks. Noticeable fading of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and improved skin clarity at 4-6 weeks. Full acne reduction, rosacea management, and skin tone evening at 8-12 weeks of consistent use.

Pairs Well With
Niacinamide serumsHyaluronic acidSqualaneCeramide-based moisturizersSunscreen (essential)Gentle cleansers
Planning a combo? Check it against what you already use
Conflicts With
Direct L-ascorbic acid vitamin C (same routine step)Copper peptidesEUK 134
See where it fits — layering order & night-splitting
Sample AM Routine
  1. Gentle cleanser
  2. Niacinamide serum
  3. THIS PRODUCT (thin layer)
  4. Moisturizer (if needed)
  5. Sunscreen
Sample PM Routine
  1. Cleanser
  2. Hyaluronic acid serum
  3. THIS PRODUCT (thin layer)
  4. Moisturizer
Evidence

Science & Expert Perspective

The Science

Azelaic acid's clinical evidence is among the most comprehensive in topical dermatology. A 2023 systematic review by King et al. in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology analyzed 55 studies across four indications. For rosacea (20 studies), azelaic acid produced significant improvement in erythema severity and inflammatory lesion counts versus vehicle at 12 weeks. For acne (16 studies), it was consistently more effective than vehicle, with clinical trials demonstrating comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% and tretinoin 0.05%. For melasma (7 studies), 20% azelaic acid outperformed both vehicle and 2% hydroquinone.

The multi-pathway mechanism is well-characterized. Azelaic acid's antibacterial activity against Cutibacterium acnes operates through disruption of bacterial protein synthesis. Its anti-inflammatory effects are mediated through inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by neutrophils and suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines — documented in a comprehensive 2024 review in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. The keratolytic activity normalizes the disordered keratinization in follicular infundibula that leads to microcomedone formation. The tyrosinase inhibition responsible for its depigmenting effects occurs selectively in hyperactive melanocytes, which is why azelaic acid does not cause hypopigmentation in surrounding normal skin — a significant safety advantage over hydroquinone.

A 2024 randomized double-blind trial by Shucheng et al. in Dermatology and Therapy tested 15% azelaic acid gel on 72 patients with post-inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation. The treatment group showed statistically significant reductions in both hemoglobin content (PIE) and melanin content (PIH) at 8 and 12 weeks versus placebo, while maintaining skin barrier integrity — confirming that azelaic acid's depigmenting activity does not come at the cost of barrier disruption.

At 10%, this product sits at the maximum OTC concentration. While prescription formulations (15-20%) provide higher bioavailability, the inclusion of dimethyl isosorbide as a penetration enhancer in this formula partially compensates for the lower concentration by improving stratum corneum absorption of the azelaic acid particles.

Dermatologist Perspective

Dermatologists consider azelaic acid one of the most versatile topical actives available, routinely prescribing it across acne, rosacea, and melasma — conditions that normally require different treatment strategies. Clinicians value its unique safety profile: FDA Pregnancy Category B status, no risk of bacterial resistance (unlike topical antibiotics), no photobleaching risk (unlike hydroquinone), and selective activity on hyperactive melanocytes that prevents the hypopigmentation seen with more aggressive depigmenting agents. Dermatologists commonly recommend this OTC 10% formulation as a starting point for patients with mild to moderate acne or rosacea, stepping up to prescription 15-20% formulations if needed. The dual role as both treatment and pregnancy-safe option makes it a staple recommendation in dermatological practice.

Guidance

Usage & Recommendations

How to Use

Apply a thin, even layer (pea-sized amount for full face) after cleansing and water-based serums, but before moisturizer. Spread quickly before the silicone base begins to set. Start with every other day application for the first week to allow skin to adjust to initial stinging. Once tolerated, increase to twice daily (AM and PM). Can be applied under sunscreen in the AM — the matte finish works well as a primer. Avoid applying over thick serums or creams, as this causes pilling.

Value Assessment

At $12.20 for 30 mL, this is arguably the best value azelaic acid product on the market. Prescription azelaic acid formulations — Finacea (15% gel) and Azelex (20% cream) — cost $150-300+ even with insurance, and often require prior authorization. A larger 100 mL tube is available in some markets for additional savings. The price-per-gram of active ingredient is remarkably low, and the inclusion of a penetration enhancer adds genuine formulation value that simpler alternatives at this price point lack. For a multi-pathway active that addresses acne, rosacea, and pigmentation simultaneously, the cost-effectiveness is exceptional.

Who Should Buy

Anyone dealing with acne, rosacea, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — or any combination of the three. Particularly valuable for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals who need an effective acne treatment. Oily skin types who appreciate a matte finish. Budget-conscious consumers who want clinical-grade results without prescription costs.

Who Should Skip

Those with dry skin who find silicone-heavy products uncomfortable or drying. Anyone who can't tolerate texture quirks — the gritty, waxy formula requires patience. Users with fungal acne should avoid this due to the polysorbate 60 and ester content. If you need prescription-strength results immediately, this 10% concentration may not deliver fast enough.

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Details

Product Details

Texture

Thick, cream-like suspension with a slightly gritty feel from the undissolved azelaic acid particles. The silicone-rich base gives it a waxy, almost primer-like quality. Dries down to a matte, powdery finish.

Scent

No added fragrance. Essentially odorless.

Packaging

30 mL squeezable tube with small opening for controlled dispensing. Standard The Ordinary minimalist white tube with black text. A larger 100 mL tube is available in some markets.

Finish
mattenon-greasylightweight
What to Expect on First Use

Expect mild stinging or tingling on the first few applications — this is normal for azelaic acid and typically subsides within the first week. The gritty texture takes some getting used to, and the product needs to be spread quickly before the silicone base sets. Start with every other day application to build tolerance.

How Long It Lasts

3-4 months with twice-a-day use (pea-sized amount per use)

Period After Opening

12 months

Opened yours? Track the toss-by date
Best Season

All Year

Certifications
Cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny)Vegan
Background

The Story Behind This Product

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid produced by Malassezia yeast on human skin — an irony given its antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties. Prescription-strength formulations (15-20%) have been FDA-approved for acne and rosacea since the 1990s. The Ordinary made this clinically validated ingredient accessible at the highest non-prescription concentration (10%) for under $15, and it quickly became one of the brand's most-reviewed products.

About The Ordinary Established Brand (5–20 years)

The Ordinary launched in 2016 under DECIEM and rapidly became one of the most recognized clinical skincare brands globally. Its ingredient-first, transparency-driven approach is backed by formulation science, though the brand does not conduct proprietary clinical trials on most products.

Brand founded: 2016 · Product launched: 2017
Myth vs. Reality

Common Myths

Myth

Azelaic acid is too gentle to actually treat acne — you need benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.

Reality

A 2023 systematic review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology analyzing 16 acne studies found azelaic acid significantly more effective than vehicle. Clinical studies have shown 20% azelaic acid comparable to benzoyl peroxide 5%, tretinoin 0.05%, and even outperforming metronidazole 0.75% for rosacea. At 10%, effects are more gradual but still clinically meaningful.

Myth

The stinging means the product is irritating your skin and you should stop using it.

Reality

Initial stinging is a well-documented and expected response to azelaic acid that typically resolves within the first 5-7 days of regular use. Clinical trials consistently report transient stinging as the most common side effect, with the vast majority of subjects successfully continuing treatment. If stinging persists beyond two weeks, reduce frequency.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Ordinary Azelaic Acid good for rosacea?

Yes — azelaic acid is one of the most well-studied topical treatments for rosacea. A 2023 systematic review of 20 rosacea studies found significant improvement in erythema and inflammatory lesions at 12 weeks. At 10%, this product provides meaningful anti-inflammatory effects for rosacea, though prescription 15% formulations may work faster for moderate to severe cases.

Is The Ordinary Azelaic Acid safe during pregnancy?

Yes. Azelaic acid is FDA Pregnancy Category B and is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology as safe during pregnancy. Only about 4% of topically applied azelaic acid is systemically absorbed, and it's a naturally occurring acid already present in the body. It's one of the few effective acne treatments that dermatologists can recommend without reservation during pregnancy.

Why does The Ordinary Azelaic Acid sting when I apply it?

Transient stinging is the most commonly reported side effect of azelaic acid and is well-documented in clinical trials. It typically resolves within the first 5-7 days of regular use. Start with every other day application and build up to twice daily. If stinging persists beyond two weeks, reduce frequency or consult a dermatologist.

How do I stop The Ordinary Azelaic Acid from pilling?

The silicone-heavy suspension base is prone to pilling when layered over thick serums or under water-based moisturizers. For best results: apply to relatively clean skin (after a lightweight toner at most), use only a pea-sized amount, spread quickly, and wait 1-2 minutes before applying moisturizer. Avoid rubbing or patting the area once the product has been applied.

Can I use The Ordinary Azelaic Acid with niacinamide?

Yes — standard niacinamide serums (like The Ordinary's 10% + Zinc 1%) are compatible with this azelaic acid suspension. Apply niacinamide first as a water-based serum, allow it to absorb, then layer the azelaic acid on top. The two ingredients work through complementary pathways for brightening and acne management.

Is 10% azelaic acid strong enough to work?

Yes, though results are more gradual than prescription 15-20% formulations. Clinical studies have shown azelaic acid at OTC concentrations is effective for acne, mild rosacea, and hyperpigmentation when used consistently for 8-12 weeks. This formula includes dimethyl isosorbide as a penetration enhancer to partially compensate for the lower concentration.

Reviews

What Reviewers Tend to Say

Recurring themes our editors read across retailer reviews of this product — summaries in our words, not quotations, and not a substitute for your own patch test.

Common Praise

Visibly fades acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation within weeks

Noticeably reduces redness and rosacea flares with consistent use

Creates a matte, smooth base that works well under makeup for oily skin

Extremely affordable compared to prescription azelaic acid products

Improves overall skin texture and clarity over time

Safe during pregnancy — one of the few effective acne treatments for expectant mothers

Common Complaints

Thick, waxy texture that feels heavy on the skin

Significant pilling when layered with other skincare products or makeup

Slightly gritty or grainy feel during application from undissolved particles

Can leave a faint white cast, especially on deeper skin tones

Initial stinging or burning sensation during the first week of use

Silicone-heavy formula feels suffocating for some skin types

Appears In
Best Treatments for BlackheadsBest Azelaic Acid TreatmentsBest Azelaic Acid for RosaceaBest Azelaic Acid for Acne
Featured in Routines
Skincare Routine for Oily, Acne-Prone SkinAcne Routine for Combination SkinSkincare Routine for HyperpigmentationPregnancy-Safe Acne Routine
Related Conditions
acnerosaceahyperpigmentationdark spotsrough textureblackheadsexcess oiliness
Related Ingredients
azelaic acidniacinamidesalicylic acidvitamin e