There are a lot of dos and don’ts when it comes to layering skincare ingredients. So, what are the rules for azelaic acid and retinol—can they be paired together?
Not only can these two ingredients work well when layered on top of each other, but they can offer many complementary benefits. Below, we’ll discuss why and how you should pair azelaic acid and retinol. Keep reading to learn more!
Why Pair Azelaic Acid and Retinol Together?
Azelaic acid is praised for its ability to reduce the appearance of imperfections and uneven skin tone. This ingredient has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help minimize breakouts and calm skin irritation.
Retinol is an effective agent for tackling visible signs of aging, shedding dead skin cells, and stimulating collagen production.
These ingredients offer many benefits on their own, so how do they work together?
Retinol and azelaic acid target similar skin concerns and, when paired together, can enhance their efficacy. Neither azelaic acid nor retinol is necessarily stronger than the other; rather, their individual strengths are very compatible.
Azelaic acid addresses surface-level concerns, while retinol works beneath the skin’s surface to tackle issues like texture and elasticity at a cellular level. Retinol provides a more intense treatment for rejuvenating the skin, while azelaic acid offers a more calming, soothing effect.
Overall, pairing azelaic acid and retinol can be very beneficial for those tackling visible signs of aging, acne, and hyperpigmentation. It allows you to address several skin concerns at once for a more well-rounded treatment.
How to Layer Azelaic Acid and Retinol
Now that you know the ‘why’ behind pairing these powerful ingredients, it’s time to discover the ‘how.’ You can pair azelaic acid and retinol together using separate concentrations, serums, or a combination serum containing low concentrations of each ingredient (like this serum from Isomers Skincare).
If you choose the first option, make sure to layer each ingredient correctly. Azelaic acid is most effective in the morning before moisturizing to achieve calmer, clearer skin, while retinol should be used in your evening skincare routine for deep repair.
Applying these products in this order will ensure your skin thoroughly receives the benefits they provide, including:
- Reduced wrinkles and fine lines
- Even skin tone
- Reduced visible acne and acne scars
- Lowered inflammation by neutralizing free radicals
Always apply both retinol and azelaic acid after you cleanse and before you moisturize, and don’t forget the SPF!
What to Keep in Mind Before Application
Before fully integrating azelaic acid and retinol into your daily routine, remember to start slow. When introducing any new skincare product, it’s important to do a patch test of the ingredient on a small area of your skin to see how it responds.
If you don’t notice any irritation or discomfort from either ingredient after 24 hours, you can continue to slowly integrate them into your daily routines.
Power-Up Your Daily Skincare
Are you ready to incorporate azelaic acid and retinol into your skincare routine? Isomers Skincare offers several products containing these ingredients for enhanced repair and rejuvenation.
Take our Build My Routine quiz for suggestions on which products work best for your skin, and browse our Shop to learn more.
Disclaimer: Our products are not intended to treat, cure, or prevent acne or other related skin concerns.