Azelaic acid vs Salicylic acid: What’s The Difference?

Skincare ingredients are the foundation of any good skin care routine. These two powerful compounds which can help reduce acne-prone skin— salicylic acid and azelaic acid — have been used by ancient healers since Hippocrates’ time. Both substances exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects; however, crafting an effective skincare product requires extensive market knowledge. This article shines a spotlight on two key ingredients that offer powerful solutions to those struggling with acne and other skin issues. Read further to gain insight into understanding each substance’s unique qualities!

How does Acne works?

Acne is a skin condition caused by an accumulation of oil, dead cells and bacteria that become trapped in hair follicles. This blockage can cause inflammation leading to the formation of papules, pustules, nodules or cysts accompanied with discomfort and pain. To manage acne effectively it’s important to understand what’s behind its development; sebaceous glands secreting excessive amounts of sebum provide the perfect platform for this combination to form within our follicles when left unchecked. By understanding these properties we are able unlock powerful ways such as salicylic acid and azelaic acid which have proven effective at treating symptoms related with acne-prone skin conditions.

What Is Salicylic acid?

Salicylic Acid, a naturally derived benzoic acid derivative, is an effective exfoliant that helps to clear the skin of debris and plugs blocking pores. This leading skincare treatment offers powerful solutions for those with acne prone skin by dissolving sebum buildup in order to prevent pimples and blemishes. Additionally it can reduce scaling on dry or rough patches caused by conditions like psoriasis as well as treat warts, corns and calluses while also managing melasma, photodamage freckles & lentigines. Found originally in willow bark sweet birch & wintergreen leaves; Salicylic Acid has since been synthetically reproduced allowing people greater access thanks to its exceptional abilities for improving the appearance of their complexion!

How does Salicylic acid works?

Salicylic acid is a powerful exfoliator, classified as a beta hydroxy acid. This differs from alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic and lactic in that it can penetrate deeper into the epidermis. Its unique oil-dissolving properties allow for effective relief against acne by removing debris within follicles, leading to smoother skin surfaces over time with regular use.

What Is Azelaic acid?

Azelaic acid is quickly becoming a breakout star in skincare, giving Salicylic Acid competition for the leading role. Its results have been highly effective, inspiring many to add this ingredient into their daily routine and catapulting it from its lesser-known status.

Azelaic acid, naturally sourced from wheat, rye and barley or produced in a lab setting for quality control, can be used to effectively treat mild to moderate forms of inflammatory acne and skin maladies such as rosacea or melasma. Prescriptions are available at 20% concentration with the option of gel-based formulas coming in at 15%.

How does Azelaic acid works?

Azelaic acid is an effective remedy for acne due to its focus on bacteria rather than sebum. Its gentleness may make it a more suitable option for those with sensitive skin, unlike salicylic acid which works by dissolving oils in pores.

Azelaic acid vs Salicylic: What do they have in common?

There are differences and similarities between salicylic acid and azelaic acid. Both of these acids are keratolytics which help dissolve skin flakes resulting in new skin growth as well as lightening scars or dark spots caused by acne flares; while they both possess antibacterial properties, it is only secondary with regards to Salicylic Acid’s ability to unclog pores. Salicylic and azelaic acids are essential weapons in the fight against acne. Salicylic acid helps keep skin healthy thanks to its ability to dissolve sebum, but it’s also backed up with antibacterial properties for added protection after breakouts have been managed. Azalaic Acid steps into centerstage when fighting bacteria-induced inflammation.

Azelaic acid is a perfect choice for those with sensitive skin as its exfoliating capabilities are much gentler than that of salicylic acid. Due to the aggressive nature of this second option, it could lead to irritation and further complications if not used properly on delicate complexions.

Using Salicylic acid and Azelaic acid for acne

Acne can be a frustrating skin condition to manage, but luckily we have salicylic and azelaic acid. Azelaic acid has become increasingly popular in recent years with dermatologists focusing on crafting moreproducts that include this ingredient due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which help soothe the skin. Luckily, both of these ingredients are safe yet effective solutions for tackling acne!