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
- BRIGHTENS SKIN TONE: Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% targets dullness, uneven tone, and rough skin texture.
- SUITABLE FOR ROSACEA-PRONE SKIN: A gentle cream-like formula, suitable for all skin types and daily use.
- SMOOTHS SKIN TEXTURE: Azelaic Acid, an antioxidant helps combat the look of uneven skin texture and enhances radiance.
- SAFE FOR DAILY USE: Ideal for use in both AM and PM skincare routines, suitable for 12 months after opening.
- APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Apply a small amount to the face in the morning and evening. Avoid the eye contour, eyes, and mouth. Use sun protection during the day.
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
- CLARIFY SKIN, SOOTHE IRRITATION: This highly effective serum booster is a multi-action powerhouse, featuring azelaic acid, known to reduce the look of blemishes and acne, while also helping to fade brown spots and marks from previous acne breakouts.
- LIGHTWEIGHT FACE SERUM: Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster also contains salicylic acid (BHA) a gentle exfoliator. The multi-tasking formula boasts a lightweight, oil-free texture that works beautifully on its own or mixed with other acne treatments, like benzoyl peroxide.
- MIX WITH YOUR MOISTURIZER: Use this booster alone or add a couple drops to a moisturizer twice daily as part of your morning & evening skin care. Use along with your favorite Paula's Choice cleanser, toner, exfoliator, spot treatments & moisturizer with SPF for daytime wear.
- PURPOSEFUL FORMULA: The oil-free, fragrance-free formula helps to fade dark spots, unclog pores, and visibly reduce redness. Lightweight and quick-absorbing, it can be used alone or mixed with your favorite moisturizer to boost clarity and evenness in all skin types.
- Paula's Choice Skincare makes products that work. No fragrance, no fluff. Just effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts.
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
- ANTI-AGING, RADIANT SKIN: This topical acid contains a high concentration of pure azelaic along with other skin enhancers to improve overall complexion. Appropriate for those with sensitive, problematic skin
- POWERFUL, NON-IRRITATING FORMULA: Azelaic acid is a highly stable and effective topical acid that targets redness and inflammation
- MOST SKIN TYPES: Can be used a few times a week AM + PM, gradually increasing use until skin develops tolerance. Apply sunscreen in the morning. Apply after serums and follow with moisturizer. A patch test prior to use is advised
- PROUDLY FORMULATED: All of our products are formulated to be pH level appropriate, Vegan, Cruelty Free, Paraben Free, Gluten Free, Skin Compatible, & Dermatologist Tested. Most of our skincare is Synthetic Fragrance Free
- SKINCARE THAT WORKS: At Naturium, we are committed to providing affordable skincare essentials that use only ingredients directly benefiting the skin’s health, which support the integrity and effectiveness of our formulations
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
- [Target Stubborn Spots And Breakouts] Contains 10% Azelaic Acid to effectively fade the look of post-blemish dark spots. This solution refines uneven texture and bumps without irritation.
- [Gentle Hydration For Sensitive Skin] Formulated with 3 types of Hyaluronic Acid and Panthenol to deeply hydrate. The lightweight, watery texture absorbs fast, making it easy to layer without drying out the skin.
- [Natural Green Redness Relief] Powered by the Anua Gentle Calming Complex including Cica and Blue Tansy Oil. The naturally derived green tint helps instantly soothe irritated skin and redness with no artificial fragrance.
- [Clinically Proven Non-Comedogenic Formula] Tested to Immediate(temporary) calm after use, proving to be non-comedogenic.
- [How to Use] Start with 1-2 drops per use to begin with gradually increasing to up to 5 drops. Please start slow by using 1-2 times a week and gradually increase to twice daily, always finishing with sunscreen for daytime use.
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
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
- Gentle Brightening Formula: Powered by 10% azelaic acid (acido azelaico), this lightweight treatment helps improve the look of uneven tone, dullness, and texture while supporting a clearer, more balanced complexion.
- Redness & Sensitivity Relief: Designed to help reduce redness and breakouts, this serum may help with rosacea-prone skin, visibly calming and refining texture while offering lasting comfort for sensitive complexions.
- Smoother, Healthier-Looking Skin: The gentle exfoliating action of plant-based azelaic acid face wash refines pores and helps fade the look of post-acne marks and brown spots over time, revealing radiant, even skin.
- Lightweight Daily Treatment: Non-greasy, quick-absorbing texture designed for AM and PM use. Layers seamlessly under moisturizer or SPF and works well with other actives in your skincare routine.
- Clean, Vegan & Effective: Fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and pH-balanced (4.5) for daily use. Formulated without harsh ingredients or parabens, offering a gentle alternative to traditional brightening treatments.
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
- Designed for daily skincare: This lightweight, concentrated serum contains 10% azelaic acid to support skin exfoliation and tone improvement.
- Key ingredients such as rhodomyrtus leaf extract and cica provide hydration and soothing benefits. Algae and panthenol contribute to skin nourishment and softening. A universal tint helps the serum blend with your natural skin tone.
- The formulation includes 10% azelaic acid, known for gentle exfoliation and promoting an even skin appearance. Algae extract offers a source of nutrients and minerals for skin support.
- How to Use: Apply onto clean, dry skin. Follow with moisturizer, and apply sunscreen during the daytime. A suggested routine: Cleanser, Toner, Serum, then Moisturizer.
- Peach Slices focuses on clean, effective skincare solutions inspired by K-beauty innovations, suitable for various skin types without harsh chemicals such as fragrance or alcohol. Vegan and cruelty-free.
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
- High-strength Azelaic Acid 10% face serum designed to improve the appearance of blemish-prone and redness-prone skin while helping refine visible pores, uneven tone, and rough texture.
- Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract base combined with humectants like Propylene Glycol, Propanediol, and Sodium Hyaluronate to support a hydrated, smoother-feeling complexion without a heavy or greasy finish.
- Niacinamide and Panthenol work alongside Azelaic Acid to help balance the look of excess oil, reduce the appearance of post-blemish marks, and promote a more even-looking skin tone over time.
- Enriched with botanical extracts including Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis), Bitter Melon (Momordica Charantia), Elderflower (Sambucus Nigra), and Edelweiss (Leontopodium Alpinum) to complete the formula with plant-derived cosmetic ingredients.
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing Korean skincare serum that layers easily under moisturizer and sunscreen in AM/PM routines, formulated without drug claims and in line with Amazon cosmetic detail page rules.
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.
