Name

Azelaic Acid

Has some considerations

Description

Azelaic acid is a naturally-occurring dicarboxylic acid found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. It is commonly used in dermatology for its skin benefits, particularly in treating conditions like acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. Azelaic acid is commonly manufactured by oxidative cleavage of oleic acid (obtained from grease or tallow) with chromic acid, nitric acid or by ozonolysis. Azelaic Acid is considered an active drug ingredient in most products and usually only available by prescription.

Benefits

Azelaic acid has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and keratolytic (exfoliating) properties. It works by preventing the growth of skin bacteria that cause acne and by keeping pores clear. It can also be used as a treatment for rosacea and eczema, due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Some research suggests that it can fight cancerous cells, including melanoma cells.

Considerations

• Skin Irritation Can cause skin irritation under certain conditions. • Eye Irritation Can cause eye irritation or damage at high concentrations. • Skin Penetration Known to be able to penetrate skin and enter the bloodstream. 2.2% of a 20% azelaic acid formula was found in urine after dermal application. • Blood-Brain Barrier Azelaic acid can cross the blood-brain barrier. However, dietary intake accounts for most azelaic acid levels in the body. And it may offer antioxidant benefits. • Skin Photosensitivity Exposure to the sun after application of azelaic acid treatments may result in accelerated sunburn.

Synonyms

Azelaic acid NONANEDIOIC ACID Anchoic acid Lepargylic acid 1,7-Heptanedicarboxylic acid Skinoren 1,9-Nonanedioic acid Heptanedicarboxylic acid n-Nonanedioic acid azelate acide azelaique acidum azelaicum Acido azelaico Azelainic acid 1,7-Dicarboxyheptane Azelaic acid, technical grade Acidum azelaicum [Latin] Azelainsaeure Nonandisaeure Azalaic Acid Acide azelaique [French] Acido azelaico [Spanish] heptane-1,7-dicarboxylic acid Nonanedioic acid Azelaic acid Water-soluble azelaic acid Dicarboxylic acid C9 Nonanedioic acid AZA

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32730109/ https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/2266 https://www.cir-safety.org/ingredient/azelaic-acid

Summary

Naturally-occurring in many foods, azelaic acid is generally safe as used in cosmeceuticals, phototoxicity and skin irritation being the main risks.