What you can find in this article:
- Introduction
- Understanding Azelaic Acid
- Benefits of Azelaic Acid
- How to Use Azelaic Acid
- About Niacinamide
- Benefits of Niacinamide
- How to Use Niacinamide
- Azelaic Acid vs. Niacinamide: The Key Differences
- Tips of Use for Azelaic Acid and Niacinamide
- The Best Combos to Work On
- Main Problems and How to Solve Them
- Conclusion: Picking the Best Ingredients for Your Skin
- Final Tips for Best Results
- FAQ
Introduction
You have seen all those ads right? Niacinamide and Azelaic acid in this product and that product. It is literally in almost every product since both these have become famous. Azelaic acid and niacinamide are two giant cosmological monads that make a promise of skin that is clearer, healthier, and younger-looking. These two ingredients are well known for dealing with different problems a person faces, from acne and hyperpigmentation to reduction of fine lines and tone irregularities. But how do they compare, and which one is the better choice for your skincare routine? In the blog below, we will talk about the difference in both these acids and how you can use them to get the best results.
Understanding Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is an acid classified under dicarboxylic acid. It is a naturally occurring substance existing in grains such as barley, wheat, and rye, among others. Although multiple functions are associated with the use of azelaic acid in skin care. Its anti-inflammatory properties that fight against bacteria causing acne emerge as the major benefits.
Benefits of Azelaic Acid
Acne Treatment
Azelaic acid decreases the number of bacteria that cause acne and decreases the growth of keratin, which then clogs up the pore. This makes it a very good active to include in formulations for acne-prone skin.
Reduction of Hyperpigmentation
Since its initial discovery, azelaic acid has been known for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation treatment. It is great at evening out the skin tone by curbing melanin production.
Rosacea Relief
Azelaic acid reduces skin redness and, therefore, relieves people with rosacea-prone skin, making it one of the choices preferred in the management of this chronic skin condition.
Anti-Inflammatory
Azelaic acid is additionally anti-inflammatory, benefiting sensitive skin and significantly reducing inflammation associated with acne and rosacea.
Exfoliation
Azelaic acid performs a very mild exfoliating function in increasing the turnover of dead skin cells to produce an improved skin texture.
How to Use Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid comes in different forms like cream, gel, or serum. However, most products you find are usually just a plain cream or gel. All three can work well if made correctly. Besides the active ingredient, the full formula can provide extra benefits. It’s best to start with a lower strength, usually around 10%, and then gradually increase it. Always apply a thin layer, never too much, and follow it up with sunscreen.
About Niacinamide
Niacinamide is another name for nicotinamide, a particular form of vitamin B3. It is useful for every skin type and is highly sought after by most skincare product developers.
Benefits of Niacinamide
Oil Control
Very helpful for skin that is too oily, as it regulates the production of sebum, a decrease in the size of pores, and potential outbreaks of acne.
Barrier Function
Niacinamide actually helps in synthesizing ceramides, which maintain a healthy skin barrier. Well, this should be a star ingredient for those with dry skin or those who are applied environmental protection.
Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots
Niacinamide, like azelaic acid, slightly reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots for the skin to have an even tone
Anti-Aging
It is a great help in reducing fine lines and wrinkles and enhancing skin flexibility. It does these roles by raising collagen production in the skin.
Help in Reducing Inflammation
It brings down inflammation, making it a good anti-inflammatory agent. This makes it appropriate for any kind of skin, especially highly sensitive skin.
How to Use Niacinamide
Niacinamide is mainly found in serums but can also be added to moisturizers, toners, and cleansers. It’s a gentle yet effective ingredient that works daily to improve your skin. You can easily layer it with other products like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, or retinoids. It’s a good choice for beginners, especially if you want to even out skin tone or control excess oil.
Azelaic Acid vs. Niacinamide: The Key Differences
Such strong actives as Azelaic acid and niacinamide in the world of skincare are amazing yet work differently and are best suited for different skin concerns.
Mode of Action
Azelaic acid targets on killing acne-causing bacteria, exfoliating the skin, and reducing the levels of pigmentation. On the other hand, niacinamide targets the regulation of sebum production and the strengthening of the skin barrier while reducing inflammation.
Better Suited For
Azelaic acid is more geared toward people with active acne, rosacea, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide, on the other hand, fairs better in the management of oily skin, barrier strengthening, and reduction of fine lines or texture concerns in skin.
Skin type considerations
Azelaic acid is relatively well-tolerated by most, though it can cause some skin irritation in sensitive people, particularly in higher concentrations. On the other hand, niacinamide is not related to direct side effects and is generally safe for all skin types, from normal to sensitive.
Combine with Other Actives
Both niacinamide and azelaic acid can be used with most other actives in the skin care toolbox. Azelaic Acid, for instance, combined with beta-hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid could exfoliate the skin gently, and niacinamide ‘plays well with’ ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and hyaluronic acid.
Tips of Use for Azelaic Acid and Niacinamide
- Patch Testing: It is significant to patch-test your skin for either azelaic acid or niacinamide before adding them to your skincare routine.
- Go Slowly: If these ingredients are new to you, use them once every few days and build up the usage over time.
- Sunscreen is Non-negotiable: Both azelaic acid and niacinamide have the potential to sensitize your skin to the sun. Always make sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the skin.
- Layering tips: When you are using azelaic acid and niacinamide, apply the thinnest product first. For example, if you are using a niacinamide serum and an azelaic acid cream, you would apply the serum first and then the cream.
- Skin Type: Decide whether to use a serum, cream, or gel based on your skin type. For example, a person with dry skin might derive more benefit from an azelaic acid cream than from a person with oily skin using a niacinamide serum.
- Just Be Patient: Azelaic acid and niacinamide both require consistent use over the course of weeks in order to see results. Be faithful to the routine and just be patient.
The Best Combos to Work On
- If you have acne: Start with a niacinamide serum, which helps to balance natural levels of oil, thereby reducing the appearance of acne. Follow with your azelaic acid serum to put a stopper on both the acne and its aftermath; it prevents dark spots from forming. Use a gentle cleanser with salicylic acid to help keep pores clean.
- Sensitive Skin: Use a low-concentration product of azelaic acid and further pair it with a niacinamide cream to soothe and protect the skin barrier. Added hyaluronic acid will increase hydration.
- For Hyper-pigmentation: This will be where combining azelaic acid with vitamin C is going to be very valuable in the skin-brightening process.
- more brightening effects. Start with niacinamide serum to get an even tone then use azelaic acid cream to apply locally over hyperpigmented spots and dark marks. Regular use of sunscreen is a must to prevent further pigmentation.
- For Anti-Aging: Add niacinamide into your routine to decrease the visibility of fine lines and improve skin elasticity. Next up is an azelaic acid product to maintain the softness of your skin and even out skin tone. You may add other anti-aging ingredients like retinoids or glycolic acid to see better results.
- For Those With Rosacea-Prone Skin: If you have skin that tends to get rosacea, opt for prescription strength or lower strength to decrease redness and inflammation. Use it along with niacinamide in order to soothe skin and protect its barrier. Stay away from harsh exfoliants and other skincare acids that are just going to exacerbate rosacea.
Main Problems and How to Solve Them
1. Skin Irritation
In case of irritation from azelaic acid, reduce the frequency or switch to a lower concentration. Niacinamide is usually well-tolerated, but if you face irritation, use less active product and avoid mixing too many actives in one routine.
2. Uneven Skin Tone
For uneven skin tone, work with niacinamide in a base that contains other actives such as ascorbic acid and hyaluronic acid. The addition of azelaic acid helps to concentrate the intervention on dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
3. Overproduction of oil
In case of oily skin, try using a niacinamide serum to check the production of sebum and visibly show some reduction in sebum. Azelaic acid supports the skin’s process of exfoliation and cleaning up the pores from excess oil and dead skin, making them appear clearer over time.
4. Pore Size and Texture
Niacinamide works fantastically in reducing pore size and, at the same time, generally improving the texture of skin. Azelaic acid, on the other hand, can go a little further in the promotion of skin smoothness by causing an exfoliative action and thus reducing the inflammation on the skin.
Conclusion: Picking the Best Ingredients for Your Skin
Powerful ingredients like squalane, azelaic acid, and niacinamide can tackle various skin issues, from acne and hyperpigmentation to fine lines and rosacea. Choosing the right one depends on your skin type and specific concerns. If you’re dealing with acne, rosacea, or stubborn dark spots, azelaic acid is a strong option. It’s very effective, almost as strong as a prescription, especially for acne-prone or rosacea-prone skin. Start with a low concentration to see how your skin reacts.
Niacinamide is great for controlling oil, reducing pore size, and strengthening your skin barrier. It has few side effects and is gentle enough for all skin types, even sensitive skin. Plus, you can easily mix it with other skincare ingredients to enhance your routine. Using both azelaic acid and niacinamide in your routine can be even more effective since they work well together and target different skin concerns. Whether you want to clear up acne, fade dark spots, or keep your skin healthy and glowing, these ingredients are valuable additions to your skincare routine.
Final Tips for Best Results
Note: Azelaic acid and niacinamide should be used regularly for a few weeks before the changes are mostly seen. Stick with it and be patient as your skin calms down.
Patch Test New Products: Always perform a patch test before introducing a new product into your routine, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Shield Your Skin from UV Rays: As both azelaic acid and niacinamide can make your skin a little more sensitive to the sun, daily use of sunscreen is non-negotiable.
Keep an Eye on Your Skin: Observe your skin’s response to these ingredients and adjust accordingly. In case of irritation that persists, consult a dermatologist.
With the right mix of skincare and a well-rounded skincare routine, azelaic acid and niacinamide will both help you achieve that more even, clearer, and healthier complexion. Either alone or in combination, these ingredients can be among the good choices for addressing common skin issues and reaching your goals.
P.S. We are not experts on skin. The information provided above is from personal experience and what we found on the internet. Please see a doctor before using any products on your skin.
FAQs about Niacinamide and Azelaic Acid
Can you combine azelaic acid and niacinamide in one skincare routine? They would actually work really complementarily, since azelaic acid takes care of the acne and hyperpigmentation, and niacinamide regulates the oil production and skin barrier strengthening.
Both are good ingredients for skin that is prone to acne, but azelaic acid is closer to a bull’s-eye because of its antibacterial properties. On the other hand, niacinamide can help stop the acne process because it regulates oil production and can calm inflammation.
Azelaic acid is mostly considered superior in giving treatment to dark spots due to inhibition of melanin synthesis. Niacinamide works rather well here too but more on preventing new dark spot formation.
Yes, azelaic acid can be used in conjunction with niacinamide and vitamin C. Niacinamide plays well with vitamin C to stabilize the antioxidant and brightening effects.
While generally well-tolerated, azelaic acid may slightly cause skin irritation, redness of the skin, or even have a burning sensation, mostly if you use it in a higher concentration. Niacinamide is broadly well-tolerated, and side effects are less often taken into account, although some at times tend to create very mild irritation.
Author: Shivangi
Edit: Kinga
