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15% Azelaic Acid Serum

15% Azelaic Acid Serum

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A multi-tasking Japanese balancing essence by KISOCare powered by 15% Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate (a water-soluble azelaic acid derivative), niacinamide, sodium ascorbyl phosphate (vitamin C), 4 types of hyaluronic acid and 8 botanical extracts including Centella Asiatica and Tea Tree. Targets blemishes, post-acne marks, redness, uneven tone and enlarged pores in a lightweight dewy formula that stays gentle on sensitive skin.

15% Azelaic Acid Derivative Fragrance-Free Alcohol-Free Pregnancy Safe Non-Comedogenic Cruelty-Free Sensitive Skin Friendly 8 Free-From Additives
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
Brand
KISOCare
Size
30ml
Type
Treatment Serum
PAO
12M
Origin
Japan
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

15% Azelaic Acid Derivative

Powered by Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, a water-soluble form of azelaic acid that fades dark spots, calms redness and balances oil without the grittiness or burning of pure AA.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery essence
Scent
Fragrance-free
Absorption
Fast (~30s)
Finish
Dewy

15% Azelaic Acid Derivative

Powered by Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, a water-soluble form of azelaic acid that fades dark spots, calms redness and balances oil without the grittiness or burning of pure AA.

Multi-Active Synergy

Combines azelaic acid derivative, niacinamide and stable vitamin C (SAP) in one bottle. Triple-action brightening for stubborn melasma, PIH and dullness.

Quadruple Hyaluronic Acid

Four molecular weights of HA (acetylated, crosspolymer, hydrolyzed and standard) hydrate every layer of the skin so the actives won't leave you tight or flaky.

8 Botanical Extracts

Centella, tea tree, licorice, green tea, rosemary, chamomile, scutellaria and Japanese knotweed deliver antioxidants and anti-inflammatory support for reactive skin.

Lab-Direct Pricing

KISOCare's "honest skincare" model skips middlemen and advertising so the cost goes into the actives. High concentration at a fair price.

8 Additives Avoided

Free from fragrance, colorants, mineral oil, alcohol, parabens, silicones, sulfates and UV absorbers. Designed for sensitive, reactive and acne-prone skin.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Azelaic acid and its derivatives are widely considered one of the safest active ingredients during pregnancy and nursing. No retinoids, salicylic acid or hydroquinone in the formula.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Free from problematic fatty acids, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients. Suitable for those prone to malassezia folliculitis.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Fragrance-free, alcohol-free and uses a gentle azelaic acid derivative instead of pure AA. Centella and licorice add a soothing buffer.

Tea Tree Extract Note

Contains low-level Melaleuca Alternifolia (tea tree) leaf extract. Patch test if you have a known essential oil sensitivity.

SPF Recommended

Vitamin C and brightening actives work best when paired with daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to lock in results and prevent new pigmentation.

Layers Well With Most Actives

Compatible with retinoids, BHA, AHA, peptides and moisturizers. Strong synergy when combined with vitamin C and niacinamide already inside.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate 15%Proven

The water-soluble derivative of azelaic acid combined with glycine. It inhibits tyrosinase (the enzyme behind melanin production), normalizes sebum and calms inflammation while staying gentler than pure AA.

  • Source (2023 study): 5% PAD combined with niacinamide significantly reduced melanin production after 6 weeks.
  • Source (clinical research): Successful results documented in studies on rosacea management and melasma treatment.
  • Formulation note: Water-soluble, so it spreads evenly without the grittiness or stinging of pure azelaic acid.
One of the few hyperpigmentation actives considered safe during pregnancy.

Niacinamide ~2%Proven

Vitamin B3, a multi-tasker that strengthens the skin barrier, regulates sebum, fades dark spots and reduces redness. Works synergistically with the azelaic acid derivative.

  • Source: Decades of clinical evidence support niacinamide for barrier repair, oil control and hyperpigmentation reduction.
  • Concentration analysis (whatsinmyjar): Estimated 1.40%–2.10%, an effective level for barrier support and tone evening.

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) ~1%Promising

A stable, water-soluble vitamin C derivative that brightens, supports collagen and has documented anti-acne benefits. Less irritating than L-ascorbic acid and oxidation-resistant.

  • Source (clinical study): 5% SAP lotion was effective in treating acne vulgaris by reducing acne-causing bacteria.
  • Source: SAP is the vitamin C form recommended for acne-prone and sensitive skin due to its stability and gentle profile.

4-Type Hyaluronic Acid Complex 2–4%Proven

Four molecular weights — Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-2, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate and Sodium Hyaluronate — hydrate from the surface to the deeper epidermis, preventing the dryness sometimes caused by actives.

  • Concentration analysis: Sodium acetylated hyaluronate estimated at 1.2–1.8% and sodium hyaluronate at 0.5–1.15% per whatsinmyjar.
  • Function: Acetylated HA has stronger surface adhesion than standard HA, giving longer-lasting hydration.

8 Botanical Extracts BlendPromising

Centella Asiatica (CICA), Tea Tree, Licorice Root, Green Tea, Rosemary, Chamomile, Scutellaria Baicalensis and Japanese Knotweed deliver antioxidants, anti-inflammatory action and soothing support.

  • Centella Asiatica: Rich in madecassoside and asiaticoside, well documented for soothing irritation.
  • Licorice Root: Glabridin is a known tyrosinase inhibitor that supports the brightening effect of azelaic acid and SAP.
  • Tea Tree Extract: Provides antibacterial benefits without the irritation of high-concentration tea tree oil.

25 ingredients

Water, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Niacinamide, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-2, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Silver Oxide.

FREE FROM: Fragrance, Essential Oils, Synthetic Colorants, Mineral Oil, Alcohol, Parabens, Silicones, Sulfates, UV Absorbers, Sulfates, Hydroquinone, Drying Alcohols.
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Essence
4
Azelaic Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
SPF (AM)

Apply after watery toners/essences and before heavier serums or creams. Suitable for both AM and PM use thanks to its gentle profile.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Tone

Start with a gentle cleanser, then pat in your usual hydrating toner or lotion to prep the skin.

2

Dispense 3–4 Drops

Drop 3–4 pumps of the serum onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way thanks to the watery, spreadable texture.

3

Press Onto Face & Neck

Gently press into clean skin, focusing on areas with dark spots, redness or active breakouts. Avoid the eye area.

4

Wait 30–60 Seconds

Let the serum fully absorb before sealing in with moisturizer. The finish is dewy, not sticky.

5

Use Twice Daily

Use both morning and night. In the AM, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to protect against new pigmentation.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You're dealing with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma or acne marks
  • You have rosacea-prone or redness-prone skin
  • You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a gentle brightening active
  • You have oily, combination or acne-prone skin and want a non-greasy treatment
  • You found pure azelaic acid (10–20%) too irritating
  • You prefer minimalist, fragrance-free Japanese skincare

Consider alternatives if:

  • You want clinical-strength pure azelaic acid (15–20%, prescription-grade)
  • You have very dry skin and prefer rich, balm-like textures
  • You have a confirmed allergy to tea tree or rosemary extracts
  • You expect overnight results — pigmentation takes weeks to fade
  • You need anhydrous (water-free) formulas for ferment-free routines
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Lightweight watery essence absorbs without adding shine. Azelaic acid derivative helps regulate sebum production.

Dry Skin
Good

4-type hyaluronic acid hydrates well, but you'll want a richer cream or facial oil layered on top.

Combination
Excellent

Balances oil in the T-zone while keeping dryer zones hydrated. Ideal all-rounder for combination skin.

Sensitive
Good

Fragrance-free and uses gentle azelaic derivative instead of pure AA. Patch test first if you react to tea tree.

Acne-Prone
Excellent

Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe and contains three actives (azelaic, niacinamide, SAP) shown to help breakouts.

Mature
Good

Brightens age spots and supports collagen via vitamin C, but pair with retinol or peptides for full anti-aging coverage.

08

Results timeline

WEEKS 8–12+
Week 1

Hydration & Calm

Skin feels softer and noticeably more hydrated thanks to the hyaluronic acid blend. Mild redness and irritation start to subside.

82% noticed
Weeks 2–4

Smoother Texture & Fewer Breakouts

Active blemishes calm down faster, pores look refined and skin feels smoother. Oil production starts to feel more balanced.

71% noticed
Weeks 4–8

Visible Brightening

Post-acne marks (PIH) begin to fade and overall tone looks more even. Niacinamide and SAP synergy becomes more visible.

64% noticed
Weeks 8–12+

Significant Pigmentation Fading

Stubborn melasma and dark spots show meaningful lightening. Best results when paired with daily SPF.

58% noticed
09

Ratings by platform

1K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
600+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 30ml bottle finishes quickly with twice-daily use
YesStyle
4.5
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Glass dropper packaging not the most travel-friendly
Brand Website
4.7
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Results on deep melasma require patience (8+ weeks)
Stylevana
4.4
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: A few users wished for a higher concentration of pure azelaic acid
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Effectively fades post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation over 6–8 weeks
  • Visibly reduces redness without irritation
  • Lightweight, fragrance-free, dewy finish that layers well
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
  • Triple-active synergy (azelaic, niacinamide, vitamin C) in one bottle
  • Strong value vs prescription azelaic acid alternatives
  • Made in Japan with strict cosmetic safety standards

Criticized

  • Small 30ml size empties faster than larger competitor serums
  • Uses azelaic acid derivative, not pure AA — less potent for severe melasma
  • Not widely stocked in Western retail (mostly online)
  • Glass dropper feels fragile for travel
  • Can pill if layered with heavy silicone-rich products
  • Subtle stinging possible on very compromised skin barriers
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
75% Match
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
$12.00
Budget Pick

Uses pure azelaic acid at 10% rather than the gentler PAD derivative. Thicker silicone-rich texture with a typical pilling risk. More potent on stubborn pigmentation but less elegant to layer.

82% Match
Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
$22.00
Similar Texture

Korean dupe with a similar lightweight watery texture, hyaluronic acid blend and redness focus. Slightly lower active concentration but easier to source.

68% Match
Azelaic Topical Acid 10%
$22.00
Similar Vibe

Cream-gel texture with 10% azelaic acid plus niacinamide. Targets the same concerns at a similar price but feels heavier on oily skin.

55% Match
10% Azelaic Acid Booster
$39.00

Higher-end booster with 10% pure azelaic acid plus salicylic acid. Stronger but pricier and not pregnancy safe due to BHA content.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Key Active 10% Pure Azelaic Acid
Size 30ml
Texture Thick silicone cream
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Origin Canada
Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
Key Active 10% Azelaic Acid Derivative
Size 30ml
Texture Lightweight serum
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Origin Korea
10% Azelaic Acid Booster
Key Active 10% Pure AA + Salicylic Acid
Size 30ml
Texture Cream-gel
Pregnancy Safe No (contains BHA)
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Origin USA
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Replace if texture, color or smell changes.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is optional but can prolong vitamin C stability.

Packaging

Glass bottle with dropper applicator — hygienic and easy to dispense, but handle with care.

Travel Friendly

Yes — at 30ml, it fits within TSA carry-on liquid limits. Wrap the glass bottle for protection.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. Azelaic acid and its derivatives are widely considered one of the safest active ingredients during pregnancy and nursing — dermatologists routinely recommend them as alternatives to retinoids and hydroquinone. This formula contains no retinol, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. As always, check with your OB/GYN if you have specific concerns.

Yes. The serum is free from problematic fatty acids, esters, polysorbates and ferments that feed malassezia yeast. Its core actives — azelaic acid derivative, niacinamide and sodium ascorbyl phosphate — are all considered safe for fungal acne sufferers. Azelaic acid itself has antifungal properties that may help calm malassezia folliculitis.

Yes. Azelaic acid is one of the most layer-friendly actives. Pair it with retinol at night (apply azelaic first, wait 5–10 minutes), use it alongside vitamin C and niacinamide (already in the formula) without issues, and alternate AM/PM with AHA/BHA exfoliants if your barrier feels strong. If you're new to actives, start by using it twice a week and build up.

It's best suited for oily, combination and acne-prone skin, and works very well on rosacea-prone or redness-prone skin. The lightweight watery texture absorbs quickly without greasiness. Sensitive skin types tend to tolerate it well thanks to the gentle azelaic acid derivative, but should still patch test for the tea tree extract. Dry skin types should layer a richer cream on top.

Hydration and calmer redness are usually visible within the first 1–2 weeks. Smoother texture and fewer breakouts develop over weeks 2–4. Brightening of post-acne marks typically takes 4–8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, and stubborn melasma may require 8–12 weeks or longer. Pair with daily SPF 30+ to keep new pigmentation from undoing your progress.

Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizer. The standard order is: Cleanser → Toner → Hydrating Essence → KISOCare 15% Azelaic Acid Serum → Treatment serums (retinol, peptides) → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). It can be used both morning and night.

No. We rate it 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. The formula is water-based and free from comedogenic oils, heavy silicones and pore-clogging waxes. The actives — azelaic acid derivative, niacinamide and SAP — actually help reduce sebum and refine pores rather than block them.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. With twice-daily use of 3–4 drops, a 30ml bottle typically lasts around 2–3 months, so you'll generally finish well before expiration. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the vitamin C stability.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: KISOCare 15% Azelaic Acid Serum delivers a clinically thoughtful Japanese formula that pairs a generous 15% potassium azeloyl diglycinate with niacinamide, stable vitamin C, four hyaluronic acids and eight calming botanicals. It's lightweight, fragrance-free, pregnancy-safe and fungal-acne friendly — making it one of the most well-rounded options for hyperpigmentation, redness and acne-prone skin. The 30ml size and dropper packaging are minor inconveniences, but at this price-to-active ratio it's an easy recommendation for anyone seeking a gentle yet effective brightening serum.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate Centella Asiatica Extract Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Niacinamide
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate Niacinamide
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate Sodium Hyaluronate Centella Asiatica Extract Niacinamide
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
52% 48%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 25 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
0 Unknown
Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate
Skin Conditioning
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
1 Unknown
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
1 A
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS