Have you ever discovered the benefits of using azelaic acid and vitamin C together in your routine? These two ingredients may be powerhouses alone, but in tandem, they can truly transform your skin appearance. Since both are antioxidants that promote an even-looking complexion, they play very well with each other, and mixing them may result in a game-changing combo to fight discoloration and dark spots. Besides, the two are just as good at targeting aging signs and acne, making this combo a must-have for your routine no matter what you’re dealing with.

 Read on and learn how to use azelaic acid and vitamin C together.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that prevents, protects, and repairs damage caused by free radicals such as pollution, UV rays, or alcohol. These free radicals break down collagen production and elastin, resulting in premature aging and dullness. By adding this ingredient to your skincare routine, your complexion will have a brighter, more youthful appearance, with less pigmentation and fewer fine lines.

Related: 12 Vitamin C Serums for Hyperpigmentation

Azelaic acid

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in barley, rye, and grain often used in skincare to address acne and hyperpigmentation. It has antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits and slightly exfoliates the skin to promote a more radiant and clear complexion.

Can I use azelaic acid and vitamin C together?

You can use azelaic acid and vitamin C together, so long as it doesn’t cause irritation. When paired effectively and used efficiently, you can transform your skin. Here are the benefits of using both together:

• If you struggle with acne, dullness, premature skin aging, or hyperpigmentation, using these two ingredients for a multi-targeted approach could be the answer. While applying them at different times can provide enough benefits, combining vitamin C and azelaic acid can help your skin achieve maximum results that last.
• Vitamin C works best in formulations with lower pH levels, just like azelaic acid. So using the two together won’t alter the skin barrier.
• As an exfoliant, azelaic acid dissolves dead cells from the skin’s surface. This creates a prime opportunity for vitamin C to sink deeply and work more effectively with newer cells.
• Azelaic acid and vitamin C are a winning team for acne-prone skin, and here’s why. While azelaic acid has antibacterial powers that target acne-causing bacteria, vitamin C fights free radicals and promotes collagen, so skin looks clear, firmer, and supple. Besides, both encourage skin repair, which can work well for acne scars.
• Both ingredients help brighten your complexion and reduce pigmentation by reducing the skin’s pigment content (melanin). They do that by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme responsible for producing pigment (tyrosinase). Besides, azelaic acid is an exfoliant that speeds up the fading of dark spots, and vitamin C shields the skin from sun damage — the leading cause of discoloration.
• Vitamin C can increase the production of ceramides in your skin, which are needed to strengthen your barrier and increase hydration levels. As a result of having a fortified skin barrier, the chances of irritation caused by azelaic acid are drastically reduced. 

We do recommend that you start by using the two separately so you can monitor any reactions or irritation and build up a tolerance. You should also avoid using them together if your skin is sensitive or easily reactive.

How to use azelaic acid and vitamin C together

There are a few ways you can use azelaic acid and vitamin C together. 

1. Use one in the morning and the other at night. Vitamin C is best used in your AM routine as it works well with your SPF to protect your skin from the sun. On the other hand, azelaic acid is best used at night, as your skin’s natural exfoliation process is at its highest then.
2. Use them together in the same product. If you like a simple, no-fuss routine, this could work well for you. We know that the two ingredients can boost each other, so using a product containing both will be effective too.
3. Use both in the morning: If you’re all about boosting antioxidant defense, strengthening your skin, and fighting free radicals, use vitamin C and azelaic acid in the morning. Apply your vitamin C serum first to protect and brighten and follow up with an azelaic acid cream to clarify.

The bottom line

Azelaic acid and vitamin C are both powerful, transformative ingredients on their own. But when used together, they can work even more effectively. If you’re battling fine lines, wrinkles, acne, lack of firmness, or any kind of discoloration, consider adding these two ingredients to your routine.