Azelaic Acid vs. Glycolic Acid: Which One is Better for Skin?

Sanchari | 11 Mar 2025

When it comes to tackling acne, dullness, and uneven skin tone, two powerhouse ingredients often steal the spotlight—Azelaic Acid and Glycolic Acid. But which one deserves a spot in your skincare routine? While both work wonders, they have unique superpowers. Azelaic Acid is the calming multitasker that soothes irritation and brightens skin, while Glycolic Acid is the exfoliating expert that smooths texture and fades pigmentation.

So, which one is your skin’s true BFF? Let’s break it down and find the perfect match for your glow goals!

What is Azelaic Acid?

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in grains like barley and wheat. It’s widely used for its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties.

Key Benefits of Azelaic Acid:

Treats Acne: Kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.
Fades Hyperpigmentation: Reduces dark spots and evens skin tone.
Soothes Redness: Calms irritation, making it ideal for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.
Gentle Exfoliation: Improves texture without causing irritation.
Antioxidant Properties: Protects skin from environmental damage.

What is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane. It exfoliates the skin by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing brighter and smoother skin.

Key Benefits of Glycolic Acid:

Exfoliates Surface Skin: Removes dead skin cells to improve texture and tone.
Brightens Skin: Fades dullness and enhances radiance.
Fades Hyperpigmentation: Treats melasma, dark spots, and acne scars.
Stimulates Collagen Production: Improves skin elasticity and reduces fine lines.
Prepares Skin for Other Products: Enhances absorption of serums and moisturizers.

How They Compare

Feature	Azelaic Acid	Glycolic Acid
Primary Function	Calms inflammation and brightens skin.	Exfoliates and smooths skin texture.
Skin Type	Suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive and rosacea-prone.	Best for normal, dry, and ageing skin.
Exfoliation	Gentle, non-abrasive exfoliation.	Strong chemical exfoliation.
Brightening	Gradual brightening and reduction of dark spots.	Effective for fading hyperpigmentation.
Anti-Ageing Benefits	Minimal; focuses on calming and brightening.	Significant; boosts collagen and reduces fine lines.
Acne Treatment	Treats mild to moderate acne; reduces redness.	Helps fade post-acne marks but minimal effect on active acne.
Irritation Potential	Low; very gentle on skin.	Moderate; may cause dryness or redness.
Frequency of Use	Safe for daily use, morning and night.	Start with 2–3 times a week and increase as tolerated.

Which is Better for Your Skin?

The choice depends on your skin concerns and tolerance:

Choose Azelaic Acid If:

You have sensitive or rosacea-prone skin and need a gentle ingredient.
Your primary concern is redness, hyperpigmentation, or mild acne.
You’re looking for a multitasking ingredient that brightens and soothes.
You want a solution that’s safe for daily use and easy to incorporate into your routine.

Choose Glycolic Acid If:

Your primary concern is dullness, rough texture, or uneven tone.
You’re targeting fine lines, wrinkles, or melasma.
You have normal to dry skin that can tolerate stronger exfoliation.
You’re looking for a product to smooth texture and fade dark spots quickly.

Can You Use Azelaic Acid and Glycolic Acid Together?

Yes, you can use azelaic acid and glycolic acid together, but caution is needed to avoid irritation:

Glycolic Acid Exfoliates: Prepares the skin by removing dead cells, allowing azelaic acid to penetrate better.
Azelaic Acid Soothes and Brightens: Reduces redness and pigmentation, balancing the potential irritation from glycolic acid.

How to Use Them Together:

Alternate Days: Use glycolic acid one night and azelaic acid the next to minimize irritation.
Layer with Care: If using them in the same routine, apply glycolic acid first, wait 20 minutes, and then apply azelaic acid.
Hydrate and Protect: Follow with a moisturizer and use sunscreen during the day to prevent UV damage.

Who Should Use Both?

Acne-Prone Skin with Hyperpigmentation: Azelaic acid treats inflammation, while glycolic acid fades scars and smooths texture.
Combination Skin with Texture Issues: Use glycolic acid on rough or dull areas and azelaic acid on sensitive or inflamed spots.
Aging Skin with Redness: Glycolic acid addresses fine lines, and azelaic acid calms redness and brightens.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overusing Glycolic Acid: Over-exfoliation can lead to irritation and a damaged skin barrier. Introduce it gradually.
Skipping Sunscreen: Both ingredients increase sun sensitivity, so SPF 30 or higher is essential.
Neglecting Hydration: Always follow with a moisturizer to replenish hydration and maintain the skin barrier.

Science Backing

Azelaic Acid:
Studies in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology confirm azelaic acid’s effectiveness in treating hyperpigmentation and reducing inflammation.
Glycolic Acid:
Research in the Journal of Dermatological Science highlights glycolic acid’s ability to improve skin texture, tone, and elasticity.
Combination Use:
Dermatologists recommend pairing glycolic acid and azelaic acid for a dual-action approach to brightening and smoothing skin, as noted in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Conclusion

Both azelaic acid and glycolic acid are excellent skincare ingredients, but they serve different purposes. Choose azelaic acid for soothing redness, reducing pigmentation, and treating sensitive skin. Opt for glycolic acid for exfoliation, brightening, and improving texture.