A white pharmaceutical box labelled “Azelaic acid 20% cream” with a tube of cream in front

Azelaic acid 20% cream

Price range: £12.00 through £16.00

Azelaic acid 20% cream is a prescription treatment for acne and rosacea, helping to reduce spots, redness, and inflammation. It is suitable for most adults and adolescents over 12. Packaging and branding may differ from image shown.

Clear Start Assessment

Azelaic acid 20% cream is a topical prescription medicine designed to manage conditions such as acne vulgaris and rosacea. This cream contains azelaic acid as the active ingredient, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It works by reducing the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin, unblocking pores, and alleviating redness and swelling associated with rosacea.

How It Works
Azelaic acid acts on the skin by decreasing keratin production and inhibiting the growth of bacteria, thereby reducing blocked pores, inflammation, and lesions.

Why Choose Azelaic acid 20% Cream
This medicine offers an effective, non-antibiotic solution for those struggling with persistent acne or rosacea. It is suitable for long-term use as directed by your prescriber and can be incorporated into a gentle skincare routine for ongoing management.

Important Note
This Medication must only be used under prescription and supervision. Always follow your prescriber’s directions, and inform them about any other treatments you are using. If you experience irritation or allergic reactions, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Directions

Please read the patient information leaflet provided with your medicine.

  • Apply a thin layer of Azelaic acid 20% cream to the affected skin areas twice daily, morning and evening.

  • Wash and dry the skin gently before application.

  • Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes.

  • Wash hands after applying the cream.

  • Store below 25°C and keep the tube tightly closed.

  • Keep out of reach of children.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient: Azelaic acid 20% (200 mg/g).
Excipients: Benzoic acid, Propylene glycol, Cetostearyl alcohol, Glycerol, Isopropyl myristate, Purified water, Polysorbate 80.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

  • Mild burning or stinging sensation

  • Itching at the application site

  • Dryness or redness of the skin

Serious (rare) side effects:

  • Severe allergic reaction (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)

  • Intense skin irritation or blistering

  • Eye irritation if accidentally contacted

Seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of severe allergy or unexpected reactions.

Warnings

Do not use Azelaic acid 20% cream if you are allergic to azelaic acid or any of its ingredients. Consult your prescriber before use if you are taking other topical treatments or medicines that may interact with azelaic acid. This product should not be applied to broken or severely irritated skin. Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding should only occur if recommended by your healthcare provider. Azelaic acid 20% cream is not recommended for children under 12 years old.

  • Azelaic acid 20% cream is generally prescribed for adults and adolescents over 12 years of age. Use in younger children should only be on medical advice.

  • You can use Azelaic acid 20% cream with most gentle skincare products, but avoid combining it with other potentially irritating treatments unless advised by a healthcare professional.

  • Improvement in acne or rosacea symptoms is usually seen after four weeks of consistent use, but full benefits may take several months.

  • Azelaic acid 20% cream should be applied in a thin layer to the affected skin areas twice daily, following a gentle cleansing routine.

  • Azelaic acid 20% cream is primarily used to treat mild to moderate acne and certain types of rosacea by reducing inflammation, redness, and the formation of spots.