Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Product Description
Product overview
A multifunctional cream-gel formula featuring 10% high-purity azelaic acid that visibly brightens skin tone, improves uneven texture, reduces the appearance of blemishes, and provides antioxidant support. Gentle enough for daily use with lower irritation potential than many direct acids.
Brightens Skin Tone
Azelaic acid inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin production, visibly evening out skin tone and fading dark spots over time.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBrightens Skin Tone
Azelaic acid inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin production, visibly evening out skin tone and fading dark spots over time.
Refines Texture
Gently exfoliates to smooth rough texture, reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, and promote a more refined skin surface.
Fights Blemishes
Antibacterial properties target acne-causing bacteria while anti-inflammatory action helps calm existing breakouts and reduce redness.
Antioxidant Protection
Provides antioxidant benefits to help neutralize free radicals and protect skin from environmental stressors and oxidative damage.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAzelaic acid is considered safe during pregnancy. Only ~4% is absorbed topically, and it's naturally found in foods and human breast milk. Approved by dermatologists for use during pregnancy.
Low systemic absorption makes topical azelaic acid safe while breastfeeding. Avoid applying to breast area and ensure infant skin doesn't contact treated areas.
While azelaic acid itself is antifungal and helps fight Malassezia, this formula contains Polysorbate 60 and esters that may potentially feed fungal acne. The azelaic acid may counteract these effects, but it's not 100% FA-safe.
Unlike AHAs and retinoids, azelaic acid does not significantly increase sun sensitivity. However, daily SPF is still recommended for overall skin health.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAzelaic Acid 10%Proven
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley. Multi-functional ingredient that addresses acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, and uneven texture with a gentler approach than many other acids.
- Antibacterial: Kills P. acnes bacteria that cause acne breakouts
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and inflammation associated with acne and rosacea
- Tyrosinase inhibitor: Reduces melanin production to fade hyperpigmentation
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals and protects against oxidative stress
Dimethicone BaseEmollient
A silicone-based emollient that creates a protective barrier on the skin, helps fill in fine lines temporarily, and gives the product its smooth, primer-like texture.
- Protective barrier: Locks in moisture and protects skin from environmental irritants
- Non-comedogenic: Does not clog pores despite its occlusive nature
- Smooth finish: Creates a silky texture that works well as a makeup primer
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) TraceAntioxidant
A powerful antioxidant that helps protect skin from free radical damage and supports the skin's natural healing process. Also helps stabilize the formula.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution
- Moisturizing: Helps strengthen skin barrier function
- Stabilizer: Helps preserve formula integrity
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
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based products and before heavier treatments. Can be used AM and/or PM. Allow to absorb before layering to prevent pilling.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. Complete your water-based serums first (hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, etc.).
Apply Pea-Sized Amount
Warm a pea-sized amount between fingers. The thick texture spreads better when warmed. Apply to slightly damp skin for easier application.
Spread Evenly
Gently spread across face, avoiding eye area and mouth. Can be used as spot treatment on problem areas or all over.
Wait & Layer
Allow 1-2 minutes to absorb before applying moisturizer. In AM, follow with SPF. Wait time helps prevent pilling with subsequent products.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate acne or blemish-prone skin
- You're dealing with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots from acne)
- You have rosacea or facial redness
- You want a gentle acid that won't increase sun sensitivity
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe active
- You have oily skin and want a mattifying treatment
- You're on a budget but want clinical-grade results
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin (silicone formula may feel drying)
- You dislike thick, primer-like textures
- You experience pilling with silicone products
- You have confirmed fungal acne (consider prescription or FA-safe alternatives)
- You want a serum that layers easily with other products
- You need higher concentration (15-20%) for stubborn concerns
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESMattifying silicone base controls shine. Helps regulate sebum production and minimize appearance of pores. Ideal skin type for this formula.
Balances oily T-zone while gentle enough for drier areas. Can be applied to problem zones only if needed.
Non-comedogenic formula fights breakouts, reduces inflammation, and fades acne scars. One of the best choices for acne-prone skin.
Gentler than AHAs/BHAs. Some initial tingling is normal. Patch test first. Great option for rosacea-prone skin.
Silicone base may feel drying. Layer over hydrating serums and follow with rich moisturizer. May prefer cream-based alternatives.
Antioxidant benefits and skin-brightening properties help with age spots. Pair with hydrating products for best results.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Adjustment Period
Initial tingling or mild stinging is normal as skin adjusts. Some may experience temporary purging. Skin starts to feel smoother.
85% tolerate wellVisible Improvement
Reduced redness and inflammation. Existing breakouts start clearing. Skin texture feels more refined. Oily skin notices mattifying effect.
70% see improvementSignificant Results
Dark spots and hyperpigmentation begin to fade. Clearer, more even-toned complexion. Fewer new breakouts forming.
80% notice clearer skinOptimal Results
Maximum brightening benefits achieved. Significant improvement in hyperpigmentation. Consistent use maintains results.
75% report satisfactionRatings by platform
24K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly affordable for a 10% azelaic acid product
- Effective for acne, redness, and hyperpigmentation
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Does not increase sun sensitivity like AHAs
- Works well as a makeup primer
- Mattifies oily skin effectively
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Available in value size (100ml)
Criticized
- Thick, silicone texture can be hard to spread
- May pill when layered with other products
- Can feel drying on dry skin types
- Initial tingling/stinging for some users
- Takes 8-12 weeks for pigmentation results
- Not 100% fungal acne safe
- Primer-like finish not for everyone
- Lower concentration than prescription options
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Gel-serum texture that's easier to layer and doesn't pill. Contains green pigments to color-correct redness. More hydrating formula but slightly higher price point.
Watery serum texture with added niacinamide and vitamin C. Uses azelaic acid derivative (potassium azeloyl diglycinate) which is gentler but may be less potent.
Similar concentration at an even lower price point. Lighter serum texture. Contains niacinamide. Less research on efficacy compared to established brands.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine; refrigeration not required.
Squeeze tube with screw cap. Opaque packaging protects formula from light degradation.
Yes, 30ml size is under 100ml TSA limit. Tube packaging is leak-resistant and durable for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes! Azelaic acid is considered one of the safest active ingredients during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It's FDA Category B, meaning animal studies have shown no risk and there's no evidence of harm in humans. Only about 4% of topically applied azelaic acid is absorbed into the bloodstream, and it's naturally found in foods like wheat and barley, as well as in human breast milk. Dermatologists frequently recommend it as a safe option for treating acne and hyperpigmentation during pregnancy.
This requires caution. While azelaic acid itself has antifungal properties and can help fight Malassezia yeast, this specific formula contains Polysorbate 60 and ester emollients (Isodecyl Neopentanoate) that could potentially feed fungal acne. The azelaic acid may counteract these effects, but if you have confirmed fungal acne, you may want to consider prescription azelaic acid or other FA-safe alternatives like The Inkey List version.
The Ordinary recommends avoiding use in the same routine as direct acids (AHAs/BHAs), retinoids, pure or ethylated vitamin C, and peptides to minimize potential 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. If you want to use vitamin C, apply it in the morning and azelaic acid at night, or use vitamin C derivatives rather than pure L-ascorbic acid.
This product works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The silicone-based formula has a mattifying effect that helps control excess oil and creates a smooth, primer-like finish. It's also excellent for those with rosacea or facial redness. Those with dry skin may find it drying and should layer with hydrating serums and rich moisturizers. Sensitive skin types generally tolerate it well, though some initial tingling is normal.
Results timeline varies by concern: For acne and redness reduction, many users see improvement within 3-4 weeks of consistent use. For hyperpigmentation and dark spots, expect 8-12 weeks for noticeable fading, as skin cell turnover takes time. Texture improvement is often noticed within the first 2-3 weeks. Initial tingling typically subsides after 2-4 weeks of use. Consistency is key—use daily for best results.
Apply in the "Treat" step of your routine, after water-based serums (hyaluronic acid, niacinamide) and before heavier treatments and moisturizer. The general order is: Cleanser → Toner → Water-based serums → Azelaic Acid → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Due to its silicone content, allow 1-2 minutes absorption time before layering to prevent pilling. Can be used morning and/or evening.
No, this product has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. Despite its silicone-based formula, dimethicone and other silicones used are non-comedogenic and won't clog pores. In fact, azelaic acid helps prevent clogged pores through its gentle exfoliating action and antibacterial properties. The product is oil-free and suitable for acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. With twice-daily use of a pea-sized amount, a 30ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months. The 100ml value size offers better cost-per-ml and lasts 6-8 months with regular use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the formula from degradation.
Verdict: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% offers exceptional value for a clinically-proven ingredient at an unbeatable price point. It's particularly effective for acne-prone and oily skin types, delivering visible results for blemishes, redness, and hyperpigmentation. The thick, silicone texture may be polarizing—some love its primer-like finish, while others struggle with pilling. If you can work around the texture (apply to damp skin, allow absorption time), you'll get professional-grade results without the prescription or premium price tag. For those who prefer easier layering, alternatives like Paula's Choice or The Inkey List offer smoother textures at higher price points. Overall, this remains one of the best entry points into azelaic acid skincare.
Browse related
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Azelaic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer
Emollient, Viscosity Controlling
|
|