Have acne, rosacea or dark spots? Azelaic acid can tame all three

Skin CareHave acne, rosacea or dark spots? Azelaic acid can tame all threePlus, it’s the only pregnancy-safe acne treatment on the market. May 19, 2026, 12:18 PM EDTMili GodioUpdates EditorSkip to table of contentsAzelaic acid is an acne-fighting ingredient for those with sensitive skin or people who are pregnant or breastfeeding — but it’ll likely take longer to see results, experts say.TULA; AmazonIf you struggle with acne, you’ve probably used your fair share of benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. However, when it comes to sensitive skin, irritation from strong actives can take many options off your product list. That’s where azelaic acid comes in: The under-the-radar ingredient helps unclog pores and prevent acne with less irritation, while also lightening dark spots and acne scars in the process, says Dr. Rachel Westbay, a board-certified cosmetic and general dermatologist at Marmur Medical. I spoke with dermatologists about how azelaic acid works and how you can incorporate it into your skin care routine. I also compiled some azelaic acid products in line with our experts’ guidance.Selected.Our top picksBest overallThe Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension Brightening Cream$12.20$12.20SephoraLearn moreBest brighteningCocokind Vitamin C Glow Serum$undefined$21.99AmazonLearn moreBest face maskDrunk Elephant Bouncy Brightfacial Brightening Mask$undefined$69.00UltaLearn moreBest for dark spotsPaula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster$undefined$39.00AmazonLearn moreBest for scarsTopicals Faded Brightening and Clearing Serum $undefined$38.00AmazonLearn moreBest with vitamin CNaturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10%$undefined$19.88AmazonLearn moreSee 3 MoreWhat is azelaic acid and how does it work?Azelaic acid is a tyrosinase inhibitor (the enzyme responsible for making melanin), which helps to even out your skin tone and prevent and treat hyperpigmentation due to conditions like melasma, says Westbay. It can also lighten acne scars, dark spots (most often seen on darker...