How To Transform Your Skin with Azelaic Acid: The Secret to Clear, Glowing Skin! | Dr Sam Bunting

[@karenmariewagstaff5746]

Very useful thank you! Here’s another tip as a veteran user: apply your AZ to dry skin to avoid stinging never on wet skin.

[@roseboogie75]

Thank you for this. I have been buffering it with the Aveeno Calm + Restore serum thinking that would help. Damp skin, serum, AA immediately after. Woooo the burn. Lol

[@dr.uzmamajeed1885]

Thanks

[@maureenwanyama6766]

At what point do you use toner if AZ has to be applied onto dry skin?

[@TlangiBaloyi]

@@maureenwanyama6766Use your toner after the cleanser, and let your skin dry before applying AZ.

[@melatiastarisoewondo2211]

OMG 💡💡that’s why it’s stinging after AZ, moisturiser and thermal spray!! Should aside the spray. Thaanksss

[@justicepower1255]

I use 20% azelaic acid in the morning and Tretinoin at nightime. Gamechanger❤

[@anisahayes]

Can you use azalaic acid on a very red, inflamed rosacea flare-up?

[@tamaraholler6870]

thank you so much! i’m giving my skin a break now bc i’ve overdone it with active ingredients so barrier reparations are necessary 🥲 but once i’m back to normal i will try it again with your tips!

[@SirSerents]

I just love this guides, they are so resourceful and clearly explained; Even though I have been using azelaic acid 20% for months (no prescription needed here in AU) 😍

[@terrirojas]

Nice! Here in the US, I couldn't even get it because it was $800! Are you kidding me?! So I had to settle for metronidazole .75% cream for my rosacea. Does little.

[@secretagentfilms]

Azclear for the win

[@lululuchita]

Hi Dr Sam Bunting, thank you for the informative video! What are your thoughts on azelaic acid vs potassium azeloyl diglycinate? Mainly, is it as effective for rosacea management? I find that azelaic acid (especially prescription strength) over time adds to my skin dehydration issue, and I hear that PAD is a more hydrating alternative though not much research is yet available on it...

[@taniathakur8000]

Love your videos. They are so informative. It's like probably 2 months I am applying Azelaic Acid 15% in my routine. My skin is so much better than before but I have to use it everyday. I followed your 13 dot and Goggle eyes technique and my skin doesn't sting or burn anymore after applying it.

[@MaruMartinezOK]

Hi Dr Sam, . Great guide to getting started with azelaic acid, thanks. Just one question: is azelaic acid compatible with vitamin C and tretinoin? I am currently using vitamin C daily in the morning and tretinoin 3 times a week at night and would like to know if it is ok to add azelaic acid to my morning or evening routine, considering my skin is not sensitive,

[@leenamenon8089]

Can one use salicylic acid cleanser (cerave acne cleanser) before applying ordinary azelaic acid ? Or is it to be done on alternate days? Thank you

[@DahHar117]

I'm 68 and have suffered from rosacea all my life and now have age spots to boot. So, is azelaic acid the only exfoliator that I need?

[@michellede8105]

Just started using The Ordinary 10% in AM &PM good so far!👏

[@CherylRockliffe]

Ze3

[@Maverikki96]

Hi Dr. Sam, great video as always. 26yo male here. I was using Adapalene 0,1% nightly and AzA 15% every morning but it was way too much for my skin. Caused more acne and irritation. Im now repairing my skin barrier with no actives for 2 weeks and my skin is the best it has been for years. My question is: When introducing actives again: Should I prefer Azelaic acid 15% or Adapalene 0,1%? Using both might be too much...

[@WebStoryME]

i do think you need to let your skin adapt for one active first. After you set and already have no irritation, go for another active. Well, for me retinoid is the go to active and the longest to adapt. in my case even, I don't have any problem with azelaic. Maybe what irritates you is retinol not the azelaic. So yeah, go to for retinoid first with basic skincare in the morning until your skin already adapt for retinoid.

[@DrSamBunting]

Focus on introducing one active at a time slowly back into your routine. Go slow and steady with a pea sized about every 2-3 nights. A lower strength OTC Aza product might be a better place to start than 15%

[@saniyasajidyt]

Hey i ust wanted to ask is redness normal after applying azelic acid

[@tiffanysalgado6803]

I started using azelaic acid about a year ago (thanks to you!) during a time that I could not figure out what was going on with my skin. I’d love to know how it’s different to metrogel. Reason being, before I visited a derm, I was using PC azelaic acid booster which I felt was the only thing helping with my skin concerns. But after visiting the derm about two weeks ago I was diagnosed with papulopustular rosacea and prescribed metrogel. I’m worried it won’t have the same great benefits but was told to give it at least two months before reassessing prescription azelaic if metrogel doesn’t show results.

[@terrirojas]

me too. i just commented elsewhere that i asked for azelaic acid rx, and it was outrageously expensive. we have an hmo insurance. i went to another derm a year later and she educated me that because my skin is dry metro gel makes things worse, so i need metro cream. i've not noticed much difference and sometimes, not sure why, i break out on my cheek bones. i'm so frustrated because i'm so red i look drunk all the time AND i have distended pores that are congested with blackheads and sebaceous filaments and i can't use anything to help clear stuff up! I'm 47. sucks. keep us posted as to how it works for you.

[@terrirojas]

@@annahart521 wow, thanks!

[@bluben1]

7:16

[@Amelie-dk9nd]

Hi Dr. Sam, I am very glad to see you speaking a lot about azelaic acid. I've been using it for over a year now and and overall I am very satisfied with the results. But this winter, since a couple of weeks, I've been having extremely dry skin and it looks to be related to the azelaic acid, because when I interrupted using it, the dryness disappeared. I wonder why is that? I've been using it exactly the same way also last winter and had no issues. I use it in the evenings: first azelaic acid (15%, prescription) and after some minutes moisturizer.

[@DrSamBunting]

If you’re experiencing dryness or irritation, try buffering with a thin layer of moisturiser before applying your active ingredients, or reduce frequency to every other night until the dryness has gone down ❤

[@Amelie-dk9nd]

@@DrSamBunting thank you for the advice. I will try and see which one works better for me. 😊

[@Martina9323]

I use Paula's Choice Azelaic Acid 10% , I suffer with redness and rosacea

[@sophiebarker5460]

I've been using every other day for a month and every time l wake up my cheeks are red and sore .. I want to keep using it because its helping with my acne but I don't know what I'm doing wrong

[@olgakonanova1455]

I just bought AA from Ordinary and used it twice to help my rosacea: it made it much-much worse, I got red bumps all over my cheeks. Should I stop using it? Does it not work for everyone?

[@vc6393]

Thank you for this! I started with Azaleic Acid 10% then graduated to 20% recently. I made the switch after not wanting to be on Hydroquinone 4% for too long for my hyperpigmentation from acne scarring. Getting pretty discouraged with how many months I’ve been using it and the slow progress on my skin and I’d love to see some tips / information on Azaleic Acid for discoloration and how long I should continue with it 🙂

[@DrSamBunting]

keep an eye out for our upcoming videos, we have a dedicated azelaic/pigmentation one coming very soon!

[@lisagardner4814]

@@DrSamBunting could you tell me if you’ve ever tried or reviewed the geek and gorgeous a pad which is a derivative of azelaic acid I wanna try it I purchased it because I heard it’s a lot more soothing. I have dry flaky skin but I also have a lot of hyperpigmentation and I don’t think I can use niacinamide every time I use anything like on my hand to test it burns.

[@soubiakhalid2738]

​@@DrSamBuntingplease.let me know how will i layer tretinoin acid with Azelic Acid.. my doctor prescribed me both but i am not using azelic acid..can i put on top of tretinoin ? Will be thankful if u reply

[@favourokoli_]

Go for cerave resurfacing retinol serum, it’s perfect for post acne marks

[@flaneur8858]

@@soubiakhalid2738 hi...I am using both tretinoin 0.01% and azelaic acid 20% for my hyperpigmentation. It's a powerful combo. Tretinoin should be used only at night while azelaic acid can be used during the day or night. But when used together it's very effective. Wash your face and let it dry. With clean hands first apply tretinoin on your face. Wait for half an hour then apply azelaic acid and then moisturizer. Use this method only at night and once a week in the beginning. Azelaic acid stings a bit in the initial days. So try using it alone first over your serums (vitamin c/niacinamide) or moisturizer to reduce the burning sensation. I have been using tretinoin for 3 years now. And azelaic acid for 6 months. I use azelaic acid daily at night as it still stings a bit. And once a week I use tretinoin and azelaic acid together. If your skin is sensitive don't use them together. Use tretinoin at night once or twice a week and azelaic acid daily. When you use the combo (treat+AA) it peels your skin a lot for two days. And makes it a little sensitive. But I am okay with it as peeling has reduced my hyperpigmentation a lot. I use 5% niacinamide serum at night to repair my skin. Incase u find AA a bit itchy use it over niacinamide serum 5% and it will not sting or sting for few seconds only. Use sunscreen daily as both tret and AA exfoliates the skin. Goodluck

[@doaametal1935]

Thank you. I am a beginner. I put it this week, but it caused me severe redness, stinging, pain, and terrible peeling, so I will put it once a week at night for an hour, and then wash it. Thank you again, Doctor.

[@saniyasajidyt]

hey please tell me how long the redness was? please reply girl

[@mabonugget6685]

What about laser hair removal can we use this

[@florian117]

Dr. Sam, what do you think about Metroruboril cream with 15% Azelaic Acid for type 1 rosacea?

[@DrSamBunting]

Not a product I've come across.

[@HannahSahi]

Using it for a month, hvnt seen any results till now but my skin is smoother.

[@KazHampson]

Hi Dr Sam I use all your products and they have really helped my rosecea. My question is this, now that I am using and tolerating well flawless nightly which has taken the place at night of my finacea which really helped and mostly got my rosecea under control. Can I use finacea and put nightly on top of it. Slightly disappointed nightly is only 5% Azelaic acid?

[@josephburrell43]

Love this, so helpful 🤩 I’ve been using Dermatica’s OTC 20% Azelaic Acid as another great option 😊

[@jmac4622]

I started using this active on your recommendation and I also now wouldn't be without it. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@andreawardle9460]

Love your videos! Can I use azelaic 15% with my tretinoin at night and if so, what do I put on first?

[@DrSamBunting]

Caution is advised with prescription retinoids, try using azelaic acid in the morning instead!

[@jenniferkrupka9674]

does it not purge your skin??

[@bhuvanachowdhary8257]

Dr Sam..so lovely to hear your expert suggestions …Grateful ! Have a q abt an issue I have..exfoliated and applied vit c immediately ( mindlessly as daily part of routine skin prep before makeup , forgot that I had exfoliated just 30 mins before 😢 ) and got 2 half pea sized burns on my cheek immediately..I actually felt the burn and cud see the discoloration happening simultaneously… how do I get rid of those 2 spots ? Pls help….Thanks a lot and looking fwd to more such awesome videos !!

[@carolking1065]

Hi, Dr Sam. 20% Azelaic has fixed my rosacea. I use it religiously every night. Love it.

[@StrangeSpookyStories]

Do u just use it at night?

[@carolking1065]

Yes, I do. Every night

[@serendipity6410]

I have been using retinol for almost 4 years and my acnes keep going and coming..i was prescribed azelaic acid for my dark spots before but now i'm going through a very bad breakout so stopped using azelaic.. should i continue retinol or stop it and start azelaic acid again?

[@cristinaheredia2640]

1. Gentle cleanser 2. Barrier support moisturizer 3.sunscreen How often? 1. Every other day 2. In two weeks, increase twice a day 1. Pea sized or half of the finger tip 2. 13 dot technique 3. Not around the house 4 moisturizer goggles

[@morenaglow]

How Can I combine 15% azelaic acid with 0.05% tretinoin?

[@DrSamBunting]

Caution is advised with prescription retinoids, try using azelaic acid in the morning instead!

[@leahsanders798]

Ask your doctor about a compound perhaps? I have an rx for a compound of those two ingredients at those exact concentrations. Granted, I started off more slowly with the tret. But if you're accustomed to that dose, your Dr. may be open to this.

[@whitneybrown4067]

This is Gonna b so Informative🔥🔥🔥👍n Happy Thursday😀….

[@Nonyabiz370]

Very helpful video! In an upcoming video(s), please address whether of not we can introduce it while our skin is pink and dry (burning ceased, pink still there). Also. Whether or not it can be used along with topical Soolantra? If yes, which should be applied first? Can Azaleic Acid be refrigerated? Can Spoolantra be refrigerated? Can mineral sunscreen be refrigerated? Also, is it okay to use cold water when you have Rosacea? Thank you.

[@calypso2565]

Hi Dr Sam! I saw you answered to many questions about compatibility of azelaic acid with other active ingredients. If I am actually on isotretinoin 20 mg and ivermectin 1%, would it be a good idea to introduce azelaic acid and can it be applied at the same time as ivermectin (for residual redness)? Thank you!

[@nusratahmeddiza2824]

Can it be used along with Salicylic acid cleanser and Niacinamide serum? As I use Cosrx salicylic acid cleanser, and The ordinary niacinamide serum everyday and salicylic acid serum every other day (at night time) . So can I use the azelaic acid serum for better results?

[@Eclectic_RN]

Sure, it occurs in barley and rye but it is not derived from barley or rye, it's produced for cosmetics by ozonolyzing oleic acid. The concept of taking a ton of barley and squeezing azelaic acid out is appealing, but not in the slightest--real.

[@hinabokhari7520]

I have a very delicate, sensitive, dehydrated, tight combination acne prone skin aging as 41 but still can't tolerate harsh ingredients .. I wish to find ideal am/pm skincare simple and easy for a glowy beautiful complexion without the acne scars that are hormonal at that time of month breakouts & t zone , hydrated so I can smile comfortably. I prefer flawless light lovely and your cleanser in summers but has Flawless Light been discontinued? I didn't like the neutralising gel it didn't help the blackheads and blemishes , Brightly & Nightly caused sensitivity and FM was too heavy . Please help Dr Sam Bunting 🙏

[@ravenstar-kv2ks]

Id say that la-roche-posay range is good for sensitive skin and rice water, ceramides etc. based. Products can help, avoid. Anything harsh. On the skin.

[@jilliansmith8080]

I use 15% at night 10% in the morning but my skin is still red. I've never experienced any irritation from this ingredient. I started right off the back using it twice a day..

[@shaliah6827]

Was hoping to get a more in depth explanation about what azelaic actually does to the skin on a chemical level, bc this person is a doctor. Instead it felt like a giant plug for products in general for people to shop….

[@syedakther6900]

Thank you, Dr. Sam. You have been very helpful. My face was severely damaged by a chemical skin peel, and I am now using azelaic acid and waiting to see what happens. Thanks.

[@MyLoVeLyMaN]

I have been back to Finacea in the past days and I can see the difference, it's so brightening! I have to say it doesn't help my acne as much as I was hoping for. But definitely nice for redness and scarring. I apply it over a moisturiser since I find it a bit drying/itchy otherwise.

[@Monotone64]

Can you use the PanOxyl foaming face wash and then the Peach slices azelaic acid red relief serum after?

[@iolandatavares4189]

Very informative and helped me a lot deciding which %, when and how!

[@pammalin9188]

Great info! I have just started adding it back into my routine to deal with hyperpigmentation and bumps.

[@rhoz5191]

I’m not exactly clear on how this is better, or just different, than retinoids. I’m 66 and don’t have acne though I do have some “age” spots.

[@timetable5601]

Which is better for rosacea; azelaic or mandelic acid?

[@athenamaurer9404]

Azelaic

[@alexdergacheff8135]

I've been regularly using The Ordinary AA and my redness is way down, and I haven't had one breakout! I love how this formula is mattifying. I use it day and night, also using tret at night. It's absolutely a superstar ingredient. Cleanser, brightening serum, AA, tret, sunscreen! ❤

[@bhoomikayadav3783]

Can I apply it at night before applying my tretinoin cream? I mean can it be paired with a tretinoin cream?

[@DrSamBunting]

Caution is advised with prescription retinoids, try using azelaic acid in the morning instead!

[@PlumHorizon]

Any thoughts on the Geek and Gorgeous aPAD one ?

[@jcstevegigs]

I’m a 57 year old male with Rosacea. Dermatologist prescribed 15% once a day. I’ve probably been using too much. Great tips here. Thanks!

[@favourelechi4406]

Please how do you layer, azelaic acid, niacinamide, tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide wash in a routine

[@yamiralizarroyo255]

Caution

[@destinychild4659]

I wouldn't use acids and tretinoin in the same routine. It can really irritate your skin.

[@audrenaIine]

thats too many actives and will damage your skin barrier

[@melatiastarisoewondo2211]

Hi dr. Sam! Thank you for the videos, I live in Indonesia and not so many AA combination products like your brightly or nightly are available. Can you please educate us how to buffering or how to combine AA suspension or Paula’s Choice AA booster with moisturiser? Because with how I use it my redness became more red than after I wash my face… thank you ❤

[@cynthiamejia2163]

It is normal i been using skinoren azelaic acid for a week and itz itching and redness?should i need to continue the product?it is normal?

[@joegoldberg1543]

I have fore hard Melasma patch , I tried tretinoin but no help, is it recommended to replace tretinoin with Azelaic acid ?

[@melissarieger4266]

Hi Dr Sam, I suffer from Rosacea, I am in ivermectine when I have flare ups and then, because of what I’ve heard about AZ, I started using 10% of the ordinary. If I wanted to use vit C serum… can I use both at night? Which one first? Thank you!

[@yamiralizarroyo255]

Can i used AA and vitamin c in the am 20 minutes apart first vitamin c then after 20 minutes AA then moisturizer and sunscreen

[@Jenny_Guerrier]

Have I been applying Azelaic acid on a dark spot under my eye for no reason, then? 😔 It might not be useful to build collagen, but I'm not using it for anti-aging. And it doesn't cause any irritation around my eyes. 😕

[@evgtikh3567]

This is the best video abut azelaic acid I have ever seen. Not too long, very informative , with lot's of recommendations, which are very helpful and were really useful for me. Like the ones about introducing aa to your skin, going at pace - long marathon, applying techniques, avoiding eye area, and choosing a brand. Thank you!

[@reneeorfali1468]

Do you like the naturium Azelaic Acid Emulsion?

[@schanychamemphis1327]

so many commercials ,but not enough info on how to use and what it is for.

[@babygirl15326]

Hi Dr Sam. I’ve been going through your videos trying to find your thoughts on toner, but can’t find anything. I have rosacea and was told by my facial tech that I need to use toner to repair my skin barrier. If you could do a video or short on toner that would be very helpful 😊

[@DrSamBunting]

I don't use them in my practice - I find them unnecessary.

[@babygirl15326]

@@DrSamBunting thank you so much for the response 🙏😊

[@richrich2307]

Thanks much. This active is amazing

[@bubblegum7994]

Can I ask about your opinion Doc?? I'm planning to use toner (soothing & hydrating type of toner) before applying moisturizer and tretinoin, because i feel like my skin feels dry & dehydrated. Do you think i need to use the toner or not? Thanks 😊

[@funnypeopleswim]

If you are using aselaic acid do you need vitamin C? I've been trying to cut down on my products, and I am wondering if I can skip vitamin C.

[@sushmasinghsingh4875]

Mam can I use simple micellar water boost cleaner....with this

[@angelinebiswas7611]

I was recently prescribed Azelaic acid 15% by my derm for rosacea as well as upping my tretinoin from .025% for over a decade to Altreno .05% which I’m having no issues with. But I am scared to start the 15% because I started a 10% AZelaic acid cream from a Korean company called zealsea recently and it caused some irritation, very prickly feeling with a slight rash. There’s nothing in the inci list that I’m sensitive to I do know the feeling of azelaic acid from previous use, so it was definitely the AA. I know I need to use it for rosacea flare ups but 10% seemed so intense on my skin that using the 15% prescription gel scares me!

[@prakashp2450]

Hi! I use 20% and the stinging/ itchy feeling is normal in the beginning, I use it with 0.1% tretinoin gel and have no irritation. Give it time

[@DrSamBunting]

Some initial staining is quite normal (it goes with use), a rash isn't. Try buffering with moisturiser first to reduce intensity.

[@lisagardner4814]

@@DrSamBunting by buffering do you mean put moisturizer on first? I’m new to the skin care game and I want to try the geek and gorgeous a pad azelaic acid derivative. I’m a little bit nervous cause I have a dryer skin I’m not sure if that will be beneficial, but I have a lot of hyper pigmentation.

[@vincechristiantan2556]

Hi dr, can I use la roche posay effaclar foaming cleanser with the ordinary azalaic acid?

[@pokerwiz101]

She's trying to get us with the glasses off trick. You got me.

[@frozengamer3030]

Is this good for acne prone skin?

[@LoveToday8]

Yes. Sure has videos on it

[@jasimmondal4850]

Hello ma'am, from how many years it can be given

[@priyadarshanikandikatla4579]

Hi does it work for textured skin?

[@ellay4514]

This is great. Brightly is amazing 🙂

[@القدسعربيه-ظ3س]

هل يجب وضعه في الظلام وهل يجب وضع واقي الشمس داخل المنزل ايضا شكرا دكتوره

[@xr29-72]

Can u use tretionojn with azalaic acid ? Or alternate days with them

[@sarahRA86]

I’m still not clear where in the skin routine do you apply it? And is it best to be on dry skin or damp skin??

[@raquelt5342]

I’ve heard ONLY on dry, wet burns people

[@seraphim_fatale]

How does the pea sized amount work if its a serum type?

[@CEO.Of.Money.Machine.]

Just a question, does it cause purging?

[@ashgemini867]

How would you use it in combination with tretinoin? Before or after?

[@haven_from_me]

I use 15% AA with naicinamide for my rosacea and it has helped smooth my skin. I use it with OTC retinol 2% and no irritation. I use a gentle facewash and moisturizer.

[@darkant3260]

This is gold material. Thank so much Dr Bunting.

[@simonac688.]

Thank you this was utterly interesting madame ✌️

[@wildcatslife686]

Can I use it in body and underarms butts shoulders?

[@rachelwhite1702]

Helpful video but really disappointing you say from the outset that grains in food get a bad rap without correcting this misinformation. Fibre intakes in the UK are way below what they should be and whole grains are a great food to include as part of a healthy balanced diet.

[@jennycasanova]

Hi Dr Sam. I live in Norway. Not sure if we can get your product here and if so there will be a very expensive additional importing fee. What do you think about the 10% by Paula Choice ? Thank you in advance for your feedback

[@LoveToday8]

She has recommended that product. Is Geek & Gorgeous an option in Norway? I've heard good things about it

[@sallywilliams9380]

Hi I have emailed the website twice via the contact page as I would like to try your skincare but just needed some advice. No one has replied. Is there a way of speaking to someone?

[@DrSamBunting]

Please email our customer service team on [e-mail] or DM us on instagram

[@Ranrish]

Don't have pimple so I will use this

[@amiiee016]

I have used The Ordinary azelaic acid during this week but my face appears a lot of new acne. is this normal dr. Sam?

[@bell4898]

Azeliac acid does cause purging (more pimples to come up) but it should go away in 4 to 6 weeks. How is your skin doing now?

[@jenniferdecker1424]

❤❤❤❤

[@princesscharlyprincess3763]

Is making my face dark

[@Shazminahabib]

Can we use vitamin c serum with azealic acid at night to treat melasma...??

[@destinychild4659]

Vitamin C is usually best used at morning.

[@n1kk1cathar1ne]

Can I use this under makeup?

[@StrangeAeons13]

Can Azaleic acid be taken orally?

[@MAK0948]

I love the Paula’s Choice Azaleic Acid

[@roseboogie75]

Yes, series Please!

[@Alice-oe4kd]

If you can use azelaic acid morning and evening can you sill use a retinoid product at night

[@DrSamBunting]

Our Flawless Nightly 2% Granactive Retinoid serum also contains azelaic acid! It’s 4 serums in one to take the guesswork out of layering ❤

[@nicolegramse826]

So I imagine it's ok to exfoliate with traditional acids prior to applying?

[@DrSamBunting]

No real need to do this in my view.

[@mammiadodo7067]

What about the moisturizer

[@Sky10811]

You look fascinating in glasses