Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Serum
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Formulation Summary
A 10% azelaic acid treatment serum designed for redness, hyperpigmentation, and blemish-prone skin. The formula includes niacinamide for additional brightening, dimethyl isosorbide as a penetration enhancer, and Anua's signature heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata) extract for soothing. A ceramide complex provides barrier support to offset the active acid.
Anua formulates this serum with 10% azelaic acid, matching the concentration found in most OTC azelaic acid products. Dimethyl isosorbide enhances penetration, which may improve efficacy but could also increase initial irritation. Niacinamide and dipotassium glycyrrhizate provide anti-inflammatory support. The inclusion of ceramide NP, cholesterol, and phytosphingosine creates a mini barrier repair complex. Houttuynia Cordata extract ties the product to Anua's core ingredient identity. The formula is fragrance-free and fungal acne safe.
Quick Facts
Designed For
- •Those dealing with redness or rosacea-prone skin
- •Users targeting post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- •Acne-prone skin seeking antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits
- •People looking for a non-irritating alternative to AHA/BHA exfoliation
- •Those with fungal acne (formula is fungal acne safe)
- •Users wanting azelaic acid with added barrier support
May Not Suit
- •Users with very sensitive skin who react to penetration enhancers (contains dimethyl isosorbide)
- •Those sensitive to fatty alcohols (cetearyl alcohol is present)
- •People seeking a stronger prescription-strength azelaic acid (15-20%)
- •Users who want a completely silicone and polymer-free formula
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Concentration | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Azelaic Acid | 10%brand-confirmed | Dicarboxylic acid that reduces redness, inhibits melanin production, and has antibacterial properties. At 10%, it matches the maximum OTC concentration available in most markets. Research supports its use for rosacea, acne, and hyperpigmentation. |
| Niacinamide | — | Listed fifth, suggesting a supporting concentration. Complements azelaic acid's brightening and anti-inflammatory effects. Helps control sebum and supports barrier function. |
| Dimethyl Isosorbide | — | Penetration enhancer that helps azelaic acid reach deeper skin layers. This can improve efficacy but may also increase initial sensitivity in some users. |
| Houttuynia Cordata Extract | — | Anua's signature heartleaf extract. Provides anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Research supports its antioxidant and calming activity. |
| Ceramide NP / Cholesterol / Phytosphingosine | — | A three-component barrier repair complex. Mimics the skin's natural lipid structure. Helps offset potential barrier disruption from the azelaic acid active. |
The Formulation Explained
Azelaic acid at 10%
Azelaic acid at 10% is the standard OTC concentration. Research demonstrates efficacy for rosacea, acne, and hyperpigmentation at this level. Prescription formulations use 15-20%. This product matches The Ordinary and Paula's Choice in concentration but differentiates through its delivery system and supporting ingredients.
Penetration enhancement
Dimethyl isosorbide is included specifically to improve azelaic acid delivery into the skin. Azelaic acid has limited solubility, which can reduce its effectiveness in basic formulations. The penetration enhancer addresses this but may cause more initial tingling compared to formulas without it.
Barrier repair alongside the active
The ceramide NP, cholesterol, and phytosphingosine trio replicates the skin's natural lipid structure. Including this in an acid treatment is a thoughtful choice. Acid actives can compromise barrier function with regular use. The built-in barrier support helps offset this risk without requiring a separate product.
Fungal acne safe
The formula avoids ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast, making it safe for those with fungal acne. This is notable because many serums contain oils or esters that can worsen fungal acne. Users with this concern can use this product without checking each ingredient individually.
Ingredients to Know
Penetration enhancer. Increases how well azelaic acid absorbs into skin. May amplify both efficacy and irritation potential.
Humectant and solvent. Listed fourth. Generally well tolerated at typical concentrations.
Fatty alcohol present in the ceramide complex. Small amount for barrier support and texture.
Texture polymer that gives the serum its gel-like consistency. Cosmetically elegant alternative to thicker suspensions.
User Feedback Patterns
Full INCI List
33 ingredients · Click "Show full list" to view
About Anua
The brand confirms the 10% azelaic acid concentration. Full INCI lists are provided. Vegan status is confirmed. Individual concentrations for supporting actives like niacinamide are not disclosed.
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Sources
- • https://anua.us
- • https://incidecoder.com/products/anua-azelaic-acid-10-serum
- • https://www.amazon.com/ANUA-Azelaic-Niacinamide-Treatment-Hyperpigmentation/dp/B0DK7DQJX7
- • https://global.oliveyoung.com/product/detail?prdtNo=GA240900143
- • https://skinsort.com/products/anua/azelaic-acid-10-serum
Last updated: 2026-03
Rating Scales
Comedogenicity (0-5)
Likelihood of clogging pores. 0 = won't clog, 1-2 = low, 3 = moderate, 4-5 = high.
Irritancy (0-5)
Potential for skin irritation. 0 = non-irritating, 1-2 = low, 3 = moderate, 4-5 = high.
Ratings based on published ingredient studies. Individual reactions may vary.