Azelaic acid (CAS 123-99-9) is an organic compound that has gained significant attention in both the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. Known chemically as nonanedioic acid with the formula HOOC(CH2)7COOH, this saturated dicarboxylic acid exists as a white powder and occurs naturally in wheat, rye, and barley. Its unique chemical properties and diverse applications make it a valuable ingredient across multiple industries, from skincare formulations to industrial manufacturing processes.

What is Azelaic Acid?

Azelaic acid is a nine-carbon straight-chain dicarboxylic acid with the molecular formula C9H16O4 and a molecular weight of 188.22 g/mol. This compound is produced commercially through the ozonolysis of oleic acid, a process that breaks down the unsaturated fatty acid into smaller segments. The resulting product is a white, odorless powder that is soluble in hot water and alcohol but relatively insoluble in cold water.

The compound is marketed under various trade names including Finacea, Azelex, and Skinoren, each representing different formulations and concentrations tailored for specific applications. In its pure form, azelaic acid has a melting point of approximately 106-109°C and exhibits typical carboxylic acid properties, including the ability to form salts and esters.

Beyond its commercial production, azelaic acid can also be found naturally in trace amounts in certain grains, making it a compound that humans have potentially been exposed to through dietary sources for centuries. This natural occurrence contributes to its favorable safety profile in topical applications.

What Are the Benefits?

Dermatological Benefits

Azelaic acid has emerged as a powerhouse ingredient in dermatology, offering multiple therapeutic benefits for various skin conditions:

Acne Treatment: Azelaic acid possesses both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that make it effective against mild to moderate acne. It works by reducing bacterial growth on the skin’s surface and unclogging pores through its keratolytic action. Unlike harsher acne treatments, azelaic acid provides comparable efficacy with milder side effects.

Rosacea Management: Clinical studies have demonstrated azelaic acid’s effectiveness in reducing the redness and inflammation associated with rosacea. Its anti-inflammatory properties help calm irritated skin while its ability to normalize keratinization processes reduces the formation of papules and pustules.

Hyperpigmentation Treatment: Azelaic acid inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production, making it effective in treating melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and other forms of uneven skin tone. Combined formulations with ingredients like glycolic acid have shown even greater efficacy in addressing these concerns.

Anti-Aging Properties: Regular use of azelaic acid can help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and promote a more even skin tone. Its exfoliative properties encourage cell turnover, revealing fresher, more youthful-looking skin.

Additional Therapeutic Applications: Research indicates azelaic acid may benefit conditions including hidradenitis suppurativa, alopecia, keratosis pilaris, and psoriasis vulgaris, expanding its utility beyond common cosmetic concerns.

Industrial Benefits

In industrial applications, azelaic acid serves as:

• A precursor to polymers and plasticizers
• A thickening agent in lubricants
• A component in hair and skin conditioning products
• A raw material for the synthesis of various chemical compounds

What Are the Uses?

Pharmaceutical Applications

In the pharmaceutical industry, azelaic acid is primarily used in topical formulations for treating skin conditions. Available concentrations typically range from 15% to 20%, with prescription-strength products containing the higher concentration. Common formulations include:

• Creams and Gels: The most common delivery vehicles for azelaic acid, designed for twice-daily application to affected areas
• Foams: Alternative formulations that may be easier to apply to larger body areas
• Serums: Lower concentration products marketed for cosmetic use

Cosmetic Applications

The cosmetics industry incorporates azelaic acid into various skincare products:

• Acne treatments: Spot treatments and full-face formulations
• Brightening serums: Products targeting hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone
• Anti-aging creams: Formulations combining azelaic acid with other active ingredients
• Rosacea-specific products: Gentle formulations designed for sensitive, reactive skin

Aplicaciones industriales

Beyond personal care, azelaic acid finds applications in:

• Polymer manufacturing as a monomer or chain modifier
• Plasticizer production for flexible materials
• Lubricant additives
• Chemical synthesis intermediates

Safety and Side Effects

Azelaic acid is generally considered safe and well-tolerated for most users when used as directed. However, as with any active ingredient, understanding potential side effects is important:

Common Side Effects

• Mild stinging or burning: Particularly common during the initial weeks of use
• Dryness and peeling: As the acid encourages cell turnover, some dryness is normal
• Redness: Temporary erythema may occur, especially with higher concentrations
• Itching: Generally mild and subsides with continued use

Important Safety Considerations

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: While topical azelaic acid is generally considered safe, pregnant or nursing individuals should consult healthcare providers before use
• Skin sensitivity: Those with sensitive skin may want to start with lower concentrations or less frequent application
• Sun sensitivity: While azelaic acid does not typically increase photosensitivity, sun protection is always recommended when using active skincare ingredients
• Eye contact: Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes

Most side effects are mild and tend to diminish as the skin adjusts to the product. Starting with once-daily application and gradually increasing to twice daily can help minimize initial reactions.

Chemical Specifications

Property	Valor
Número CAS	123-99-9
Chemical Formula	C9H16O4
Peso molecular	188.22 g/mol
IUPAC Name	Nonanedioic acid
Sinónimos	Azelaic acid, Nonanedioic acid, Anchoic acid, Azelex, Finacea, Skinoren, Lepargylic acid
Apariencia	Polvo cristalino blanco
Punto de fusión	106-109°C
Solubilidad	Soluble in hot water, alcohol; sparingly soluble in cold water
pKa	4.4, 5.3 (dicarboxylic acid)
Número MDL	MFCD00004432
PubChem CID	2266
ChEBI	CHEBI:48131

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to see results from azelaic acid?

Most users begin to see improvements in their skin condition within 4-8 weeks of consistent use. However, for conditions like melasma or more severe acne, it may take 12 weeks or longer to see significant results. Patience is key when using azelaic acid, as it works gradually to normalize skin cell turnover.

Can azelaic acid be used with other skincare ingredients?

Azelaic acid can be combined with many other skincare ingredients, including niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and peptides. However, it should be used with caution when combined with other strong actives like retinoids, vitamin C, or AHAs/BHAs, as this may increase irritation. If combining treatments, consider using them at different times of day.

Is azelaic acid suitable for all skin types?

Azelaic acid is generally suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties actually make it relatively gentle compared to many other acne treatments. However, those with very sensitive skin or certain skin conditions should start with lower concentrations and patch test before full application.

Does azelaic acid lighten skin?

Azelaic acid can help reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots by inhibiting melanin production. It does not “bleach” the skin but rather helps fade dark patches and even out skin tone over time. This makes it popular for treating melasma, post-acne marks, and sun damage.

Can I use azelaic acid during pregnancy?

Topical azelaic acid is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before using any medication or active skincare ingredients during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Why Choose Our Azelaic Acid?

When sourcing azelaic acid for your formulations or research needs, our company offers several advantages:

• High purity: Our azelaic acid meets or exceeds industry standards with purity levels of 98% or higher
• Consistent quality: Every batch is tested to ensure consistent performance and reliability
• Competitive pricing: We offer bulk pricing options for manufacturers and researchers
• Technical support: Our team can provide technical guidance on handling, storage, and formulation
• Reliable supply: We maintain stable inventory to support ongoing production needs
• Global shipping: We can fulfill orders worldwide with appropriate documentation

Whether you’re formulating skincare products, developing pharmaceutical applications, or requiring industrial-grade azelaic acid, our product delivers consistent results you can trust.

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