How to Use Niacinamide and Azelaic Acid
Because the beauty industry is so buzzing, filled with must-try formulas and dominant hero ingredients, you’ll find that some ingredients tend to fly under the radar. But today we’re going to take a look at azelaic acid and niacinamide and how they can be used together in your daily skincare routine. Hopefully, when we introduce you to these two skin heroes, you’ll wonder how you ever got through your daily life without them!
If you’re reading this right now and wondering what exactly are azelaic acid and niacinamide? Then this next section is for you!
What Does Niacinamide Do for Skin?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that has hydrating properties that are beneficial for all skin types. This means that niacinamide attracts and locks in moisture to the skin, keeping the skin’s protective barrier fully functioning. When the skin barrier has the right amount of water and oil, it prevents further damage to the skin caused by free radicals such as exposure to pollution, UV rays, and other environmental aggressors. Niacinamide also has the benefit of being able to regulate the skin’s sebum production, which means it can help restore a balanced and clear complexion.
What Does Azelaic Acid Do for Skin?
It’s extracted from various grains like barley, wheat, and rye, and is often used in exfoliating products. Often mistakenly considered a member of the AHA family, azelaic acid has cell-communicating abilities that “tell” surface skin cells how to operate, helping to produce a smoother, more vibrant complexion over time. It fights signs of hyperpigmentation and reduces visible fine lines and wrinkles; it can also help relieve rosacea flare-ups. Not only does azelaic acid work well for skin, it also increases photosensitivity, so always keep your daily SPF at 30 or higher.
Can Niacinamide and Azelaic Acid Be Used Together?
You actually can. You’ll find that niacinamide and azelaic acid form a powerful, skin-perfecting duo. Azelaic acid removes surface buildup of dead skin cells, bacteria, and impurities, while niacinamide helps improve hydration and restore the skin barrier to its healthiest state.
When it comes to formulas, you’ll find niacinamide and azelaic acid in products like serums, face oils, and moisturizers. This is an important point to remember, as these products are typically left on the skin longer. This usually results in a higher percentage of effectiveness for each ingredient, which means you can usually see results faster. However, this means a higher risk of irritation and other skin reactions. Therefore, it’s important to do a patch test on your skin ahead of time to avoid this.
If you want to learn more about using niacinamide and azelaic acid together, read our dedicated blog post.
Should I use niacinamide before azelaic acid?
Firstly, it depends on the products that each ingredient is formulated with. As I mentioned in my previous post, applying skincare products from the thinnest to the thickest products allows each product to absorb into the skin. If I were to share my personal thoughts with you, I would recommend using an azelaic acid-rich serum first, followed by a moisturizer with niacinamide.
By applying an azelaic acid formula first, you are removing the barrier that has been created by the buildup of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin and revealing the new skin underneath. Once you apply niacinamide, you’ll have the peace of mind that you’ll maintain the overall healthy and glowing appearance of your skin and won’t see any signs of irritation.
What Not to Mix with Niacinamide?
With its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, there are many skincare ingredients that can be combined with niacinamide. With its moisturizing properties, it helps keep the skin hydrated, soothed, and balanced, making it an ideal team partner for all the other more potent ingredients, such as AHAs like glycolic acid or BHAs like salicylic acid.
For skincare ingredients that don’t mix well with niacinamide, vitamin C has a similar effect. Using them together can cause the two ingredients to cancel each other out, rendering both useless to the skin. Still, you can use a vitamin C-rich serum in the morning and a niacinamide serum at night to reap the benefits without any of the side effects.
Does Azelaic Acid Detoxify?
Yes, it does, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Azelaic acid can speed up skin cell turnover and cause breakouts on the face. This simply means that the azelaic acid is doing its job, clearing the skin of excess sebum, dead skin cells, impurities, and bacteria that can cause more problems in the long run. Keep in mind that if these breakouts are accompanied by discomfort, itching, rashes, or flaking, it’s a sign that the azelaic acid is too irritating for your skin and should be discontinued immediately. Keep in mind that if you have concerns about adding azelaic acid to your routine, it’s best to consult with a doctor or dermatologist to make sure it’s the best ingredient for you and your skin.
Does Azelaic Acid Help Get Rid of Acne Scars?
Because azelaic acid helps with skin turnover, you’ll find that it can reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and lighten dark spots that are often caused by acne scars. As dead skin cells slough off, dark spots will lighten over time and become less visible to the naked eye. To prevent further sun damage and melanin overproduction, it’s best to remember to apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher every day to prevent further damage from occurring.
Should I moisturize before or after azelaic acid?
Because moisturizers have a thick consistency, it’s best to use them later in your routine. Another benefit of moisturizers is that they contain a lot of water, which can help keep the surface of the skin hydrated and plump once applied to the skin.They also form a protective barrier over the outer layer, ensuring that any active ingredients or serums you apply previously can work their magic without being disrupted by free radicals (such as UV rays, pollution, and other environmental influences).
Whether you use Niacinamide and Azelaic Acid alone or together, you’ll find that they work together to provide an overall soothing, hydrating, and energizing double whammy for your skin. As always, if you’re not familiar with these ingredients, I recommend consulting your doctor or healthcare professional.
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