Naturiums New Azelaic Acid Serum Is the Secret to an Even Skin Tone [Exclusive]

If youve spent any time poking around or lurking among Internet forums like r/skincareaddiction or even just reading buuk.top with any kind of regularity (hey yall), then youve almost certainly picked up on the purported efficacy of actives. Meant to be far more powerful than more general ingredients, actives, shorthand for "active ingredients" have one standout ingredient among many typically due to its higher concentration percentage—and a lot of times, its some sort of acid. Naturium, the high-tech, science-focused skincare line founded by social media star and skincare expert Susan Yara, knows a thing or two about harnessing the power of different acids. They released some excellent news for anyone with skin with the launch of the Azelaic Acid Emulsion 10% ($22).

Naturium

For newcomers to AzA, finding a concentration percentage high enough to actually treat the discoloration without a prescription can be tricky.1Thats where Naturium comes in, offering the highest azelaic acid percentage available over-the-counter.  "Its truly the product I wish I had during those years when I couldnt use salicylic acid, retinoids, and some of my favorite hyperpigmentation treatments," Yara tells buuk.top exclusively, explaining that the idea for the emulsion came from her years of pregnancy and breastfeeding that prohibited other harsher ingredients.

"And while I dont plan to ever have babies again, Im glad I now have this product to keep my skin glowing. Its great for all skin types, and can either be the one treatment product you use in your routine or you can layer it with other actives (even with retinoids)." That last point is one worth remembering, particularly if you use tretinoin—the two "augment" or complement each other.2

Though azelaic acid might not have the name recognition of some other acids, its absolutely one worth familiarization. A dicarboxylic acid that exfoliates skin, calms inflammation, treats acne with its natural antibacterial properties, and fades hyperpigmentation. And because its technically natural, derived from your own bodys yeast (the topicals are all lab-grown, though) its safe for all skin types and, as in Yaras case, for pregnancy and breastfeeding, too.3Despite the acids efficacy, Yara and the Naturium team werent content to stop there. The emulsion is also formulated with a plant-based iteration of retinol meant for anti-aging, and niacinamide, a form of B3 that protects skins moisture barrier while also fighting acne that Yara calls "one of my favorite skincare ingredients. It helps brighten, soothe, and strengthen the skin barrier." Rounding out composition is sugarcane-derived squalane ("Again, one of my favorite skincare ingredients to hydrate and nourish the skin," Yara says), and acetyl rheum rhaponticum root extract and avena sativa (oat) kernel extract ("both ingredients are great for further brightening the skin and evening discoloration.").

Naturium
Azelaic Acid Emulsion 10%
$22.00

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Once you get your hands on the emulsion, its surprisingly simple to fold it into your existing routine thanks to the harmonious, gentle ingredients. “Emulsions are lighter versions of moisturizing creams,” says Dr. Morgan Rabach, dermatologist at LM Medical, in an interview with buuk.top. “Unlike most heavy facial creams, emulsions are typically water-based, which means they go on lighter and thinner than creams. In some cases, emulsions come in gel or almost liquid forms. I think of them as thicker than a serum but thinner than a cream.” Typically, its suggested that you apply your emulsion as one of, if not the, final step in your routine. When in doubt, layer it on after your other most active product. If youre using a retinol, for example, this would come just after. If youre feeling dry, follow it up with a moisturizer. Why cant everything be this easy?

Similar Azelaic Acid Products

Paulas Choice
10% Azelaic Acid Booster
$39.00

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Paulas Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster is another cream-gel formula that features azelaic acid. Similar to Naturiums emulsion, this product works to reduce the look of blemishes, smooth out bumpy texture, calm redness, and also fade uneven skin tone and post-breakout marks. It can be mixed with a moisturizer or serum or used on its own day or night.

The Ordinary
Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension Brightening Cream
$10.00

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The Ordinarys Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension Brightening Cream visibly brightens skin tone and improves skin texture. Considering a 1 oz bottle of this cream is $10, this is an affordable way to incorporate azelaic acid into your skincare routine.