Aziderm 10% Gel
Aziderm 10% Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-recommended topical gel containing 10% Azelaic Acid for the treatment of acne, rosacea, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This lightweight, fast-absorbing pharmaceutical-grade formulation kills acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, unclogs pores, and fades dark marks without photosensitivity.
Antibacterial Action
Kills P. acnes bacteria by inhibiting microbial protein synthesis, reducing inflammatory acne lesions at the source.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial Action
Kills P. acnes bacteria by inhibiting microbial protein synthesis, reducing inflammatory acne lesions at the source.
Anti-Inflammatory
Reduces redness, swelling, and irritation associated with acne and rosacea through reactive oxygen species scavenging.
Tyrosinase Inhibitor
Fades post-acne dark spots and hyperpigmentation by competitively inhibiting melanin production in abnormal melanocytes.
Comedolytic & Keratolytic
Normalizes keratin production to unclog pores, preventing whiteheads, blackheads, and new comedone formation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAzelaic acid is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category B. Only 3–4% is absorbed systemically after topical application. No teratogenic effects found in studies. Considered safe by the American Academy of Dermatology for use during pregnancy.
Azelaic acid occurs naturally in food and breastmilk. With less than 4% topical absorption, it poses low risk to nursing infants according to the NIH LactMed database. Avoid applying to the breast area.
Azelaic acid is inherently antifungal — it reduces free fatty acids on skin that feed Malassezia yeast. Contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that trigger fungal acne.
Unlike AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids, azelaic acid does not increase sun sensitivity. Safe to use in both AM and PM routines without additional photo-protection concerns.
Mild stinging or burning is common in the first 1–2 weeks of use. Start with once-daily application in the evening to build tolerance. Discontinue if irritation persists.
Reports of asthma worsening with topical azelaic acid use exist. If you have asthma, keep your rescue inhaler accessible and inform your dermatologist.
Can be used alongside retinoids, niacinamide, and vitamin C. Avoid layering with strong exfoliants (AHA/BHA) on the same night to minimize irritation risk.
Not recommended for children under 12 years for acne treatment, or under 18 years for rosacea. Always consult a dermatologist before use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAzelaic Acid 10% w/wProven
A naturally occurring C9 dicarboxylic acid produced by the yeast Malassezia furfur and found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley. It is a multi-functional active with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, comedolytic, and depigmenting properties. At 10%, it offers a gentler entry point compared to prescription 15–20% concentrations.
- Mechanism: Inhibits microbial protein synthesis (bactericidal against P. acnes), competitively inhibits tyrosinase for depigmentation, and scavenges reactive oxygen species.
- Clinical Data: Studies show 20% azelaic acid comparable to 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne with fewer side effects. 10% provides supplemental benefit for mild-to-moderate acne.
- Absorption: Only 3–8% of topically applied azelaic acid is absorbed systemically, depending on formulation (gels absorb ~8%).
- Resistance: Unlike topical antibiotics, azelaic acid does not promote bacterial resistance, making it suitable for long-term maintenance therapy.
2 ingredients
Azelaic Acid 10% w/w, Gel Base (aqueous vehicle)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning on clean, dry skin. Follow with serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Can be used both morning and evening. Wait 1–2 minutes before layering next step.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Wash the affected area with a gentle cleanser and plain water. Pat the skin dry completely before application.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze a pea-sized amount onto your fingertip. Dot the gel onto the affected areas of the face — avoid eyes, lips, mouth, and nostrils.
Massage Gently
Spread a thin, even layer over the affected skin. Do not rub vigorously. A slight tingling sensation is normal and temporary.
Wash Hands & Follow Up
Wash your hands after application. Wait 1–2 minutes, then apply moisturizer and sunscreen (AM). Use once daily initially, building to twice daily as tolerated.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
- You struggle with post-acne dark spots or hyperpigmentation
- You have rosacea with redness and bumps
- You need a pregnancy-safe or breastfeeding-safe acne treatment
- You have fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe active
- You want a gentle active that does not cause photosensitivity
- You want long-term maintenance without antibiotic resistance
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severe nodulocystic acne (may need oral medication)
- You have active eczema or sunburned/broken skin
- You are under 12 years of age
- You are allergic to azelaic acid or any gel base components
- You need deep wrinkle treatment (retinoids may be more effective)
- You have asthma that is poorly controlled
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. The lightweight gel absorbs quickly with a matte finish, controls oil without adding shine, and reduces pore congestion.
Balances oily T-zone while being gentle enough for drier cheeks. Non-greasy gel texture adapts well across zones.
Non-comedogenic (rating 0/5), anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and fungal acne safe. Targets acne from multiple angles without resistance.
Generally well-tolerated for sensitive skin. Start once daily to build tolerance. Initial tingling is common but subsides with continued use.
May cause mild dryness or peeling. Always follow with a rich moisturizer. Consider the cream formulation (Aziderm 10% Cream) for added hydration.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–6Adjustment Period
Mild tingling or stinging upon application is normal. Skin is adapting to the active. Some may experience minor purging as clogged pores are cleared. Redness may temporarily increase before improving.
70% experience initial tinglingVisible Improvement Begins
Active acne lesions begin to reduce in size and number. Redness and inflammation start to calm. Skin texture begins to feel smoother as pores are being unclogged.
60% notice fewer breakoutsSignificant Clearing
Noticeable reduction in papules and pustules. Post-acne dark marks begin to lighten. Skin tone appears more even. If no improvement by week 4, consult your dermatologist.
75% see significant acne improvementFull Results & Maintenance
Ongoing improvement in hyperpigmentation and skin clarity. Continued use maintains clear skin without building bacterial resistance. Consistent use over several months yields the best long-term outcomes.
80% report clearer, more even skinRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Highly affordable compared to Western azelaic acid products
- Lightweight gel formula absorbs fast with no greasy residue
- Effective at reducing acne, redness, and dark marks
- Safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding (FDA Cat. B)
- Fungal acne safe — no triggering ingredients
- Does not cause photosensitivity or sun sensitivity
- No bacterial resistance with long-term use
- Minimal ingredient list — very low irritation potential
Criticized
- Very small tube size (15g) — runs out fast with full-face use
- Initial tingling or burning sensation for first 1–2 weeks
- Results take 4–8 weeks of consistent use to appear
- 10% concentration may not be strong enough for severe acne
- May cause dryness or peeling on very dry skin types
- Prescription status varies by country — may need Rx
- Faint medicinal scent not universally liked
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 10% azelaic acid concentration in a silicone-based suspension. Slightly grainier texture with a more matte, silicone finish. Cosmetic-grade (OTC) rather than pharmaceutical. Widely available internationally without prescription.
Same 10% concentration in a gel-serum vehicle with a green tint designed to colour-correct redness. Smoother application texture compared to The Ordinary. Cosmetic-grade formulation without prescription requirement.
Same concentration with added salicylic acid, allantoin, and licorice root for extra soothing and brightening. Richer emulsion texture. Significantly higher price but includes complementary actives in one product.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEAziderm 10% Gel
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place at a temperature not exceeding 25°C. Do not freeze. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
Aluminium tube with screw cap (15g)
Yes — 15g tube is well under 100ml TSA liquid limit. Compact and lightweight for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Azelaic acid is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category B, meaning no teratogenic effects have been observed. The American Academy of Dermatology considers it safe during pregnancy. Only 3–4% of topically applied azelaic acid is absorbed systemically. For breastfeeding, the NIH LactMed database confirms it poses low risk as azelaic acid naturally occurs in food and breastmilk. Avoid applying to the nipple or breast area. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist for personalized guidance.
Yes. Aziderm 10% Gel is fungal acne safe. Its minimalist formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. In fact, azelaic acid actively helps treat fungal acne by reducing the free fatty acid content on the skin surface, creating an inhospitable environment for Malassezia overgrowth. It also has antimicrobial properties effective against both aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms.
Azelaic acid is generally compatible with most actives. It pairs well with niacinamide, vitamin C (on separate applications or layered), and retinoids. However, avoid using it at the same time as strong AHA or BHA exfoliants to minimise irritation risk. A good approach: use azelaic acid in the morning and retinol/AHA/BHA at night, or alternate nights. If combining multiple actives, introduce them gradually and monitor your skin's response.
Aziderm 10% Gel is most suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The lightweight gel formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. It also works well for sensitive skin (start with once-daily use). Dry skin types can use it but should always follow with a rich moisturizer. It is ideal for anyone dealing with acne, rosacea, fungal acne, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Most users begin noticing improvement within 2–4 weeks of consistent daily application. Significant results in acne reduction and skin texture typically appear by weeks 4–8. Hyperpigmentation may take 2–3 months to visibly lighten. If you see no improvement after 4 weeks, consult your dermatologist. For best results, continue use for several months as directed.
Apply Aziderm 10% Gel after cleansing and toning, on clean, dry skin. It goes in the treatment/active step — before serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Wait 1–2 minutes for it to absorb before layering the next product. In an AM routine: Cleanser → Toner → Aziderm → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen. In a PM routine: Cleanser → Toner → Aziderm → Serum → Moisturizer.
No. Aziderm 10% Gel has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5 — it will not clog pores. In fact, azelaic acid is comedolytic, meaning it actively works to unclog pores by normalizing keratin production and reducing dead skin cell buildup. The gel base is free from oils, fatty acids, and other pore-clogging ingredients, making it safe for acne-prone and breakout-sensitive skin.
Aziderm 10% Gel has an unopened shelf life of 24 months from the date of manufacture and a recommended period-after-opening (PAO) of approximately 6 months. Store it below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Always check the expiry date printed on the tube before use. Once opened, use consistently within the PAO window for optimal efficacy.
Verdict: Aziderm 10% Gel is an exceptionally affordable, dermatologist-trusted pharmaceutical-grade azelaic acid treatment that punches well above its price point. Its minimalist, fungal-acne-safe formulation with zero comedogenic risk makes it a standout choice for acne-prone, oily, and combination skin types. The pregnancy and breastfeeding safety profile gives it a major edge over many popular alternatives. While the 15g tube size is small and initial tingling can be off-putting, the multi-functional benefits — antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, depigmenting, and comedolytic — make it a versatile cornerstone for any acne-focused skincare routine. Ideal for those seeking an effective, no-frills active without the premium price tag.
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 skin’s 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 «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.
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
Brightening 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 |
Azelaic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Texture
Pores
|