Is Azelaic Acid Safe? What You Need to Know
Safety Score
Concern Level: low
Azelaic Acid is generally considered safe for use in household and personal care products.
What Is Azelaic Acid?
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid produced by yeast. Effective for acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.
Commonly found in: acne treatment, rosacea treatment, brightening serum, anti-aging
Safety Research & Evidence
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid produced by yeast. Effective for acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.
Regulatory status: FDA prescription (15-20%) and OTC (<10%); EU available OTC
Health Concerns
mild stinging on initial use
Evidence: ModerateResearch indicates mild stinging on initial use may be associated with exposure to Azelaic Acid.
Safer Alternatives
| Alternative | Safety Score |
|---|---|
| Niacinamide | 9/10 |
How to Avoid Azelaic Acid
- Read ingredient labels carefully for "Azelaic Acid" or its chemical synonyms
- Choose products with third-party certifications (EWG Verified, Made Safe)
- Consider alternatives like Niacinamide
- Check the EWG Skin Deep database for product ratings
- Look for "Azelaic Acid-free" labels on product packaging
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Azelaic Acid safe for babies?
Azelaic Acid is generally considered acceptable for use around babies at typical concentrations in consumer products.
What are the safest alternatives to Azelaic Acid?
Safer alternatives include Niacinamide (safety score: 9/10).
Is Azelaic Acid banned in other countries?
Regulatory status: FDA prescription (15-20%) and OTC (<10%); EU available OTC
How do I know if my product contains Azelaic Acid?
Check the full ingredient list on the product label. Azelaic Acid may also appear under different chemical names. Using apps like EWG Healthy Living or Think Dirty can help identify it.
Related Safety Guides
References
- Thiboutot D et al. (2008). Azelaic acid: evidence-based update on mechanism of action and clinical application PMID: 18491931