Azelaic acid gel
"An antibacterial treatment for mild to moderate acne that you apply to your skin. It has a gentle exfoliating action to help clear pore blockages. Also widely known as the branded gel Finacea."
What is azelaic acid gel?
Azelaic acid gel is used for treating mild to moderate acne. It's generally much gentler on the skin than other acne treatments. It can be effective on its own or in combination with other medications. As it’s the active ingredient in the brand Finacea, you may also see this treatment listed as Finacea gel, Finacea azelaic acid and Finacea 15 gel.
How does it work?
Azelaic acid gel works as a chemical exfoliator to remove dead skin and acne-causing blockages from your pores. It also kills the bacteria that often cause inflammation and a buildup of pus, helping to prevent new acne from forming.
How to use azelaic acid
Apply azelaic acid gel to clean and dry skin twice daily, morning and evening. Regular use is important, so make sure you apply it continuously throughout your course of treatment.
Treatment results
It can take 4-6 weeks for you to see if the azelaic acid gel is working to clear up your acne. It’s a good treatment option for those with skin that’s too sensitive for harsher acne treatments.
Side effects of azelaic acid
Azelaic acid gel is generally much gentler on the skin than other acne treatments. However, as with all medications, some people may experience side effects when using it. The most common ones are itching, burning, and pain to the area treated. Some people may experience a rash, tingling, dry skin and numbness in the area treated. In a very small number of cases, there can be a more serious skin reaction where the gel is applied.
For full details of side effects and correct use, please see the patient information leaflet. And if you’re worried about side effects, you can contact us in your Patient Record.
Product features
Gently removes dead skin
Works to stop new acne from forming
Less harsh than some other topical treatments if you have sensitive skin
What is azelaic acid gel?
Azelaic acid gel is used for treating mild to moderate acne. It's generally much gentler on the skin than other acne treatments. It can be effective on its own or in combination with other medications. As it’s the active ingredient in the brand Finacea, you may also see this treatment listed as Finacea gel, Finacea azelaic acid and Finacea 15 gel.
How does it work?
Azelaic acid gel works as a chemical exfoliator to remove dead skin and acne-causing blockages from your pores. It also kills the bacteria that often cause inflammation and a buildup of pus, helping to prevent new acne from forming.
How to use azelaic acid
Apply azelaic acid gel to clean and dry skin twice daily, morning and evening. Regular use is important, so make sure you apply it continuously throughout your course of treatment.
Treatment results
It can take 4-6 weeks for you to see if the azelaic acid gel is working to clear up your acne. It’s a good treatment option for those with skin that’s too sensitive for harsher acne treatments.
Side effects of azelaic acid
Azelaic acid gel is generally much gentler on the skin than other acne treatments. However, as with all medications, some people may experience side effects when using it. The most common ones are itching, burning, and pain to the area treated. Some people may experience a rash, tingling, dry skin and numbness in the area treated. In a very small number of cases, there can be a more serious skin reaction where the gel is applied.
For full details of side effects and correct use, please see the patient information leaflet. And if you’re worried about side effects, you can contact us in your Patient Record.
Select a medication and complete our simple, confidential online consultation
A clinician will review your answers and, if suitable, prescribe treatment
Choose next-day delivery, or click & collect from your local pharmacy
Azelaic acid gel FAQs
-
How long does azelaic acid gel take to work?
You can use azelaic acid gel for several months depending on how effective it is. You may notice an improvement in the appearance of your acne after 4-6 weeks.
-
Where can I buy azelaic acid gel (Finacea)?
You’ll need a prescription to buy azelaic acid gel, if you’re using an online service.
One of our clinicians can prescribe the gel for you after an online consultation where we make sure it’s right for you. This only takes a few minutes. Once approved, you can choose discreet home delivery or pick up your acne prescription from a Well Pharmacy.
-
Azelaic acid gel (Finacea) warnings
Your clinician will advise you on any warnings or precautions before you use azelaic acid gel. Please note:
- The gel is for use on your skin only. Avoid contact with your eyes, mouth and the thin skin around body openings called mucous membranes.
- Remember to always wash your hands after you apply the gel.
- In rare cases, those with asthma who were treated with azelaic acid reported worsening symptoms.
-
Does azelaic acid gel (Finacea) interact with any other medications?
So our clinicians can prescribe azelaic acid safely, you’ll need to let us know which prescription and over-the-counter medicines you’re taking regularly. This includes any medications for other skin conditions, such as eczema.
When using azelaic acid gel, it’s best to avoid:
- Other acne treatments you apply to your skin (topical) unless prescribed by your clinician
- Harsh skincare products like scrubs and peels
- Cleansers with high levels of alcohol that can dry out skin
-
Alternative acne treatments
Depending on how serious your acne is and what’s causing it, our clinicians can prescribe a tailored treatment. That could mean pairing an oral antibiotic with your gel or cream. If you’re a woman with hormonal acne, your treatment could include the contraceptive pill co-cyprindiol (widely known as Dianette or Clairette).
