Can You use Azelaic Acid and Vitamin C At the Same Time?
When it comes to layering skin ingredients at the same time you need to first have a clear understanding that you are using the best performing duo. Azelaic acid and vitamin C are both highly effective ingredients that each deliver notable and impressive results. Wanting to use these two powerhouses together makes perfect sense, after all, why wouldn’t you want to reap the rewards?
But I understand why you’d be feeling hesitate, so that is exactly why today we will be looking into how to use azelaic acid and vitamin C at the same time in your routine.
Which one is better vitamin C or azelaic acid?
Both azelaic acid and vitamin C provide impressive skin results, some are similar, and others are unique to each ingredient. You can either decide to use these ingredients separately or teamed together once you have built your skin’s tolerance.
Skin benefits of Azelaic Acid
Exfoliates the outer surface ridding it from a build-up of dead skin cells
Unclogs the pores from excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, and impurities
Combats acne causing bacteria from developing active spots, blemishes, and acne flare-ups
Reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots caused from sun damage and post acne breakouts
Contains anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce redness, swelling and inflammation on the skin caused by rosacea and acne
Skin benefits of Vitamin C
Contains antioxidant properties ensuring it can protect the skin from daily exposure to free radical damage
Boosts collagen production in the lower layers of the skin combating signs of skin sagging
Repairs and reduces the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation
Helps to brighten the skin leaving you with a glowing complexion
Minimises redness or inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea
Both azelaic acid and vitamin C are safe to use for almost all skin types, excluding those with who are prone to severe sensitivity. If you are unsure about introducing either of these ingredients into your routine consult with a dermatologist to avoid any unwanted reactions.
Do you put vitamin C before azelaic acid?
Yes, many skincare experts suggest applying vitamin C before azelaic acid. Depending on your skin type this may mean firstly applying a vitamin C enriched serum, waiting 10 minutes, and then applying an azelaic acid product. If you wanted my advice, even if you had a skin type that can tolerate these ingredients try using vitamin C during your morning routine followed by azelaic acid in your evening routine. This not only results in you reaping the rewards of both ingredients, but you also avoid any risk of skin irritation or dryness to the skin.
If you are wanting to know more about using azelaic acid and vitamin C together check out our dedicated blog post.
Can you apply moisturiser after azelaic acid?
Indeed, you can, you may find that azelaic acid is formulated into skincare products such as serums, face wash or cleansers. Due to the correct order which you should apply skincare products, from the thinnest consistency to the thickest, a moisturiser would be one of the last products applied to the skin.
You will also find that by applying moisturiser after azelaic acid will result in the skin feel comfortable, hydrated, and healthy with any mild signs of irritation from the exfoliation calmed and soothed.
Does azelaic acid damage the skin barrier?
Yes and no, the reason for this is because azelaic acid provides chemical exfoliation to the outer surface of the skin. As beneficial as azelaic acid is at keeping your skin clear of any impurities it can also reduce the thickness of the outer layer of the skin which overtime will lead to irritation and dryness.
To counteract any risk of you experiencing any of this irritation or surface damage to the skin you can team your azelaic acid product with another that contains hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, both of which are hydrating and effectively lock moisture into the skin barrier. When the skin barrier is functioning and healthy with the correct levels of water in it you will find it is able to protect itself from exposure to free radicals, such as pollution, UV rays and other environmental aggressors.
How do you use azelaic acid on your face?
This is very dependent on the product that contains azelaic acid. As I have already mentioned there is a selection of skincare products that can be enriched in azelaic acid, from face wash to topical gels. Due to azelaic acid being prescription only usually results in the percentage of the acid in the formulation is quite high so a little goes a long way. All you need to do is apply a thin layer of the product and gently work it into the skin, focusing on the areas of concern. You can then rinse it off if needed or leave it on the face, don’t forgetting of course that you need to apply a daily SPF of 30 and above to ensure you remain protected from further sun damage.
Does azelaic acid help wrinkles?
Not really, there is no evidence that suggests using azelaic acid will help combat signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles. The main anti-ageing benefits you can expect to see when using azelaic acid is how it is able to combat any signs of hyperpigmentation and dark spots. With the areas of pigmentation reduced and you will find the skin tone becomes more even, glowing, and youthful looking thanks to the antioxidant benefits.
I hope that you now have a better understanding of how azelaic acid and vitamin C can be used at the same time. As I have already suggested if you ever have any concerns when using these powerhouse ingredients together, consult with a doctor or dermatologist. It is also important to remember that if after you introduce a product into your routine, if it causes any irritation or dryness stop using it and seek the help from a medical professional. Come and follow us on Instagram for more skincare tips, exclusive offers, and product launches!
