This is probably one of our favorite multi-therapy acne treatment combinations. The primary function of Azelaic acid is to kill the bacteria that cause inflammation and zits. Aside from killing bacteria, Azelaic acid also normalizes the disordered shedding of keratin inside the pores. This action reduces the formation of whiteheads and blackheads on the face. The primary side effect of using Azelaic acid is the annoying itching and burning sensation that you would feel. This itching and burning sensation usually occurs 2 to 5 minutes after the initial application of Azelaic Acid. The itching sensation is temporary and usually subsides after about 30 minutes. For people with very sensitive skin, Azelaic acid can cause dryness, redness and flaking of the skin.

Azelaic acid is best combined with topical niacinamide to counteract the side effects of azelaic acid. Topical niacinamide is a very good anti-inflammatory agent which reduces the chances of skin irritation from Azelaic acid. Thus, by using topical niacinamide we can avoid the dryness, redness and skin flaking that could arise from azelaic acid use. Since Niacinamide is a vitamin, it also moisturizes the skin and makes it healthier. Topical niacinamide has been shown in one study to have an ability to reduce facial oiliness.

Materials:

20% Azelaic Acid cream ( Azelex, Skinoren )
5% Topical Niacinamide Gel ( Metazene ) or 5% Topical Solution ( Homemade )

Procedure:

1. Wash your face with ordinary soap and water then dry it using a face towel.
2. Apply a thin layer of azelaic acid cream on the face. Allow the azelaic acid to penetrate the skin for 2 hours or more.
3. Remove the azelaic acid cream by washing it with soap and water. If you have sensitive or dry skin, you can remove the trace residues of azelaic acid cream using water alone. Dry your face using a towel.
4. Apply the topical niacinamide gel using your fingertips. Use a cotton ball to if you are using a topical niacinamide solution.

Notes:

This acne treatment method needs to be done twice daily for maximum effect. If you have very sensitive skin, use this method once daily for the first week and then twice daily for the succeeding weeks.

Precautions:

Consult your doctor first if you are pregnant, lactating or could become pregnant during the use of this type of acne treatment. This acne medication is not intended to be used on children.

References:

1. Using Aldara, copper peptide, and niacinamide for skin care. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 24, Issue 1, Pages 83-84 J. Carraway
2. W Gehring (2004) Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 3 (2), 88–93.
3. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a603020.html ( Last update - 10/01/2003 American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. )
4. Br J Dermatol 1988 Nov;119(5):627-632 Inhibition of 5 alpha-reductase activity in human skin by zinc and azelaic acid. Stamatiadis D, Bulteau-Portois MC, Mowszowicz I , Laboratoire de Biochimie B, Hopital Necker-Enfants-Malades, Paris, France.

Last update: December 31, 2008