Best Azelaic Acid Serums (2026) Reviewed
Azelaic acid is a multitasking ingredient that tackles acne, redness, and hyperpigmentation without the irritation of stronger acids. Here are the top serums organized by use case and budget.
What to Look For
- Concentration — Most OTC serums contain 10% azelaic acid, which is effective for most concerns without requiring a prescription.
- Texture — Serums and lightweight emulsions absorb quickly; cream-like suspensions work better for dry skin but may pill under makeup.
- Supporting ingredients — Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid boost brightening and hydration; avoid products with AHAs or BHAs if you have sensitive skin.
- Fragrance — Fragrance-free formulas reduce irritation risk, especially for rosacea-prone skin.
- Formulation type — Water-based serums layer well; silicone-based suspensions create a smoother finish but may not play nice with other products.
Product Recommendations
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% — Best Overall
No products found.
The Ordinary delivers a no-frills 10% azelaic acid formula at an unbeatable price point.
This cream-like suspension brightens skin tone and smooths texture with pure azelaic acid. The silicone-based formula creates a soft-focus finish but can pill if layered incorrectly. Works best as a final step before moisturizer.
- Pros:
- Effective 10% concentration
- Extremely affordable
- Non-comedogenic formula
- Suitable for morning and evening use
- Cons:
- Silicone base can pill under makeup
- Thicker texture takes time to absorb
Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers who want proven results without the premium price tag.
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster — Best for Acne-Prone Skin
No products found.
This booster combines azelaic acid with salicylic acid for enhanced pore-clearing power.
The gel-cream texture layers seamlessly under moisturizer or mixes directly into your favorite products. The addition of licorice root extract helps calm redness while salicylic acid keeps pores clear. Oil-free and fragrance-free.
- Pros:
- Dual-action with salicylic acid
- Lightweight, non-greasy finish
- Can be mixed with other products
- Fragrance-free
- Cons:
- Higher price point
- May be too active for very sensitive skin
Best for: Those dealing with both acne and post-acne marks who want a multi-tasking treatment.
Naturium Azelaic Acid Emulsion 10% — Best for Sensitive Skin
No products found.
A gentle emulsion formula that pairs azelaic acid with soothing squalane and niacinamide.
This creamy emulsion absorbs quickly without the pilling issues common in azelaic acid products. The bio-retinol complex provides additional brightening without irritation. Pump packaging keeps the formula fresh.
- Pros:
- Creamy texture that layers well
- Contains squalane for hydration
- Fragrance-free and vegan
- Airless pump dispenser
- Cons:
- Smaller 1 oz size
- May feel heavy for oily skin
Best for: Sensitive skin types who need redness relief without irritation.
ANUA Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum — Best K-Beauty Option
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A lightweight Korean serum that combines azelaic acid with centella and hyaluronic acid for maximum soothing.
The watery texture absorbs instantly and layers perfectly with other products. The green-tinted formula contains seven types of cica extract plus three forms of hyaluronic acid. Clinically tested for rosacea-prone skin.
- Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight texture
- Multiple soothing ingredients
- No white cast
- Silicone and alcohol-free
- Cons:
- Requires gradual introduction
- Small bottle for the price
Best for: K-beauty fans who want a hydrating, fast-absorbing formula for redness and breakouts.
The INKEY List SuperSolutions Azelaic Acid 10% — Best for Rosacea
No products found.
Developed with dermatologists specifically for rosacea-prone skin with visible redness.
The micro-fine green pigments provide instant color correction while azelaic acid works on long-term redness reduction. Non-pilling formula sits well under SPF and makeup. Allantoin adds extra soothing benefits.
- Pros:
- Instant redness-neutralizing effect
- Fast-absorbing, no white cast
- Dermatologist-developed
- Budget-friendly
- Cons:
- Green tint visible on application
- Can feel slightly drying
Best for: Those with persistent facial redness or rosacea who want immediate and long-term results.
Good Molecules 10% Azelaic Acid Treatment — Best for Beginners
No products found.
A straightforward plant-based azelaic acid treatment with centella for calm, clear skin.
This gentle formula uses plant-derived azelaic acid alongside CICA exosomes and passion fruit oil for soothing benefits. The lightweight cream texture works for all skin types and absorbs without residue.
- Pros:
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Vegan and fragrance-free
- pH-balanced at 4.5
- Affordable price point
- Cons:
- Results take longer to appear
- May not be strong enough for stubborn concerns
Best for: First-time azelaic acid users or those who want a gentle daily treatment.
Peach Slices Redness Relief 10% Azelaic Acid Serum — Best for Inflammation
No products found.
A K-beauty inspired formula that targets inflammation with azelaic acid, cica, and green algae.
This concentrated serum absorbs quickly and leaves no sticky residue. Panthenol strengthens the skin barrier while green algae provides nutrients. Free from fragrance, silicones, and alcohol.
- Pros:
- Lightweight, non-sticky formula
- Multiple soothing botanicals
- Clean ingredient list
- Leaping Bunny certified
- Cons:
- May pill under certain products
- Newer brand with less track record
Best for: Those with red, reactive skin who prefer clean beauty formulations.
Cos De BAHA Azelaic Acid 10% Serum — Best Value
No products found.
A Korean cult favorite that delivers clinical results at a drugstore price.
Built on an aloe vera base, this serum includes niacinamide and panthenol for additional brightening and soothing. The lightweight formula layers easily and works well for oily and combination skin types.
- Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Aloe-based for extra soothing
- Contains niacinamide and panthenol
- Fast-absorbing texture
- Cons:
- Slightly sticky feel initially
- Basic packaging
Best for: Budget shoppers who want a well-formulated Korean skincare option.
Verdict
For most people, The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% offers the best combination of effectiveness and value. If you have acne-prone skin and want dual-action treatment, Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster justifies its higher price with the addition of salicylic acid. For sensitive or rosacea-prone skin, the ANUA or INKEY List options provide gentler formulations with instant soothing benefits.
