Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid found naturally in grains such as wheat, rye and barley. In skincare it is valued for how gentle it is: it works on redness, uneven tone and marks left by breakouts, without harsh exfoliation, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin.

Its main job is evening things out. It helps fade post-acne marks, brighten pigmentation, visually refine enlarged pores and reduce excess shine. Unlike AHAs, azelaic acid does not increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, so it works in a morning routine as well. In Korean skincare it typically appears at 10% to 16%, in serums, toners and masks.