Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Product Description
A cream-like brightening formulation with 10% high-purity azelaic acid that visibly improves uneven skin tone, reduces textural irregularities, and targets the look of blemishes. This multifunctional antioxidant is gentle enough for daily use and suitable for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin.
โจ Texture & Feel
Brightening Formula
Inhibits tyrosinase to reduce melanin production, fading dark spots and post-acne marks over time.
Anti-Inflammatory
Calms redness and irritation, making it ideal for rosacea-prone and sensitive skin types.
Antibacterial Action
Targets P. acnes bacteria and inhibits Malassezia yeast growth to prevent breakouts.
Gentle Exfoliation
Promotes cell turnover and unclogs pores without causing photosensitivity like other acids.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Only 3-4% is absorbed topically. Recommended by ACOG and dermatologists for pregnancy acne and melasma treatment.
Low systemic absorption makes it safe during lactation. Avoid applying to breast area. Use water-based formulas only.
Azelaic acid actively fights Malassezia yeast by reducing free fatty acid content that feeds the fungus.
Unlike AHAs and retinoids, azelaic acid does not increase sun sensitivity. Still recommended to use SPF daily.
Mild stinging or itching for 2-4 weeks is normal when starting. Reduce frequency if irritation persists.
Apply small amount to inner arm 24 hours before first use to check for sensitivity reactions.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
โ๏ธ Azelaic Acid 10% Proven
A naturally-occurring dicarboxylic acid derived from grains. Multifunctional ingredient that targets acne, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and provides antioxidant protection.
- Mechanism: Inhibits tyrosinase (melanin production), kills P. acnes bacteria, reduces keratin buildup
- Clinical Studies: 20% concentration shown effective for melasma in 16-24 weeks (Journal of Dermatological Treatment)
- OTC Strength: 10% is the maximum non-prescription concentration in the US; 15-20% requires Rx
๐งด Dimethicone Base Carrier
A silicone-based emollient that creates a smooth, silky finish and helps fill in fine lines. Forms a protective barrier without clogging pores.
- Function: Provides slip, smooths texture, creates protective film on skin
- Benefits: Non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, helps with scar healing
- Note: May cause pilling when layered with water-based products or makeup
๐ฟ Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Trace Antioxidant
A powerful antioxidant that helps protect skin from free radical damage and supports skin barrier function.
- Function: Antioxidant protection, moisturizing, formula stabilization
- Synergy: Enhances the antioxidant effects of azelaic acid
17 ingredients
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
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after water-based products but before heavier creams. Can be used AM and/or PM. Many users prefer PM only to avoid pilling under makeup.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. Apply any water-based toners or serums first and let them absorb completely.
Apply Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze a small amount onto fingertip. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Gently Massage
Apply to entire face, focusing on areas with uneven tone, blemishes, or redness. Avoid eye area and lips.
Wait Before Layering
Allow 1-2 minutes for full absorption before applying moisturizer or SPF to prevent pilling.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate acne or blemishes
- You struggle with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- You have rosacea or facial redness
- You want a pregnancy-safe acne treatment
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You want to brighten dull, uneven skin tone
- You need a gentle alternative to retinoids or strong acids
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have severe nodulocystic acne (may need prescription)
- You dislike silicone-based textures
- You need a product that layers well under makeup
- You want faster, more dramatic brightening results
- You are sensitive to silicones or experience breakouts from them
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Matte finish helps control shine. Regulates sebum production and prevents clogged pores without stripping skin.
Silicone base provides some occlusion. Layer with hydrating serum underneath and rich moisturizer on top.
Balances oily T-zone without over-drying cheeks. Addresses multiple concerns simultaneously.
Gentler than most acids. No photosensitivity. Patch test first; initial tingling is normal and subsides with use.
Non-comedogenic formula. Antibacterial and anti-keratinizing properties target acne at multiple levels.
Clinically proven for rosacea. Anti-inflammatory properties calm redness and reduce papulopustular symptoms.
๐ Results Timeline
Initial Adjustment Period
Mild tingling or purging may occur as skin adjusts. Some users notice immediate reduction in redness and calmer skin.
40% noticed initial tinglingVisible Texture Improvement
Skin begins to feel smoother. Existing blemishes start healing faster. Inflammation and redness visibly reduced.
65% noticed smoother textureBrightening & Evening
Dark spots begin to fade. Overall skin tone appears more even and radiant. Fewer new breakouts.
75% noticed brighter skinFull Results
Significant improvement in hyperpigmentation. Clearer, calmer complexion. Best results with continued consistent use.
85% satisfied with resultsโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Exceptional value at under $10 for clinical-grade formula
- Safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal acne
- Effective for multiple concerns: acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation
- No photosensitivity unlike retinoids and AHAs
- Gentle enough for daily use on sensitive skin
- Matte finish great for oily skin types
- Visible results within 4-8 weeks
- Fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free
โ Criticized
- Silicone base causes pilling with some products
- Thick, paste-like texture not everyone enjoys
- Can feel heavy or waxy on skin
- Doesn't layer well under makeup
- Initial tingling/stinging for sensitive users
- Results slower than prescription 15-20% formulas
- 30ml tube runs out quickly with regular use
- Some experience initial purging
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Lighter gel-cream texture with added Centella Asiatica (CICA) and Passion Fruit Oil for extra soothing. Less silicone, better layering under makeup. Same 10% concentration.
Contains glycinated azelaic acid plus niacinamide and vitamin C for enhanced brightening. Lightweight serum texture absorbs faster. More ingredients overall.
K-beauty option with water-based serum texture. Includes niacinamide and witch hazel. Less occlusive than The Ordinary but may be less potent delivery.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10%
$8.00Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
$39.00Good Molecules 10% Azelaic Acid
$10.00Finacea Gel 15% (Prescription)
$200+๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Use within this time for optimal efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine; no refrigeration needed.
Opaque squeeze tube protects formula from light and air oxidation. Hygienic dispensing.
Yes, 30ml is under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit. Solid cream-gel won't leak in luggage.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Azelaic acid is FDA Pregnancy Category B and recommended by ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) as a safe acne treatment during pregnancy. Only 3-4% is absorbed systemically when applied topically. For breastfeeding, it's considered low-risk by the NIH LactMed database. Avoid applying to the breast area and ensure baby doesn't contact treated skin directly.
Yes! Azelaic acid is one of the best ingredients for fungal acne. It actively fights Malassezia yeast by reducing the free fatty acid content on skin that feeds the fungus. Unlike many acne treatments, it doesn't contain oils or fatty acids that can worsen fungal acne. It's frequently recommended by dermatologists for pityrosporum folliculitis.
The Ordinary recommends avoiding use in the same routine as strong direct acids, pure/ethylated vitamin C, retinoids, and peptides to prevent irritation. However, you can alternate: use azelaic acid in the morning and retinol at night, or use them on different days. Many people successfully combine azelaic acid with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and gentle vitamin C derivatives.
This formula works for all skin types but is especially excellent for: oily/acne-prone skin (antibacterial, oil-regulating), sensitive/rosacea-prone skin (anti-inflammatory, gentle), and those with hyperpigmentation concerns. The matte silicone finish is particularly beneficial for oily skin. Dry skin types should layer with hydrating products underneath.
Most users notice initial texture improvement within 2-4 weeks. Significant brightening and hyperpigmentation fading typically occurs at 4-8 weeks. Full results for stubborn dark spots and acne scars may take 8-12+ weeks of consistent use. Clinical studies often show best results at 16-24 weeks. Patience and consistency are key!
Apply after cleansing and any water-based serums/toners, but before heavier creams and oils. The general order: Cleanser โ Toner โ Water-based serums โ Azelaic Acid โ Moisturizer โ Sunscreen (AM). Due to its silicone base, applying it as the last treatment step (before moisturizer) helps prevent pilling.
No, this formula is non-comedogenic according to The Ordinary. Azelaic acid itself has anti-keratinizing properties, meaning it actually helps prevent clogged pores by reducing the buildup of dead skin cells. The silicones used (dimethicone) are also non-comedogenic and don't penetrate pores. However, some individuals may be sensitive to silicone-heavy formulas.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The opaque tube packaging protects the formula from light and air degradation. If using twice daily as directed, a 30ml tube typically lasts 1-2 months depending on how much you apply. The 100ml size offers better value for regular users.
Verdict: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% delivers exceptional value for a clinically-proven, multi-tasking treatment. Its combination of pregnancy safety, fungal acne compatibility, and effectiveness for acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation makes it a skincare staple. While the silicone texture may cause pilling issues for some and results take time, the sub-$10 price point makes it an accessible entry to azelaic acid. Best used at night or as the last treatment step to avoid layering issues. Highly recommended for beginners and anyone seeking a gentle yet effective brightening and anti-acne solution.
Product Overview
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.
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.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinโs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
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 ยซpromisesยป 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.
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
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
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.
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!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
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.
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isodecyl Neopentanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Azelaic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Isododecane
Solvent, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer
Emollient, Viscosity Controlling
|
|